On November 27, 2025, Comrat State University hosted an important event dedicated to awarding certificates to Gagauz language teachers working in educational institutions across Gagauzia, including kindergartens. The event brought together more than 50 educators from various parts of the autonomous region, as well as representatives of public authorities, educational institutions, and civil society. The ceremony began with the solemn presentation of certificates confirming the professional qualifications of Gagauz language teachers. These certificates are the result of targeted efforts to improve the quality of teaching the native language, initiated by Comrat State University in cooperation with local educational authorities. The awarding ceremony marked a significant step in recognizing the contribution of teachers to the preservation and development of the Gagauz language as an essential component of the cultural identity of Gagauzia. In his speech, the Rector of CSU, Assoc., prof. PhD Serghei Zaharia, emphasized: “Today we honor those who not only teach but also preserve our language, our culture, our history. Gagauz language teachers play a crucial role in maintaining our heritage, and we must continue to support their efforts.”
During the event, participants addressed pressing issues related to the state of the Gagauz language, its teaching, and its use in daily life. Teachers exchanged many ideas and proposals aimed at improving the linguistic situation in Gagauzia. Particular attention was given to the need to revise teaching methods, as well as the importance of introducing additional programs to increase language proficiency among youth and adults.
It was noted that despite the wide range of educational materials available, the use of the Gagauz language in the official sphere remains limited, creating challenges for its wider dissemination and normalization in public life.
One of the key moments of the event was the discussion on integrating the Gagauz language into the educational system on par with the Romanian language, which remains the primary language of instruction in most institutions. This session featured the participation of the Minister of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova, Dan Perciun.
In his address, Dan Perciun emphasized: “The Gagauz language is an integral part of the cultural and historical heritage of the region. Its preservation and development are not only cultural matters but also matters of human rights — the right of every citizen to maintain their language and identity.” He proposed several recommendations to improve the status of the Gagauz language in education, including expanding teaching materials and methodological guides, creating specialized teacher training courses, and increasing governmental support.
During the discussion, teachers also raised issues they face in teaching the Gagauz language, such as the shortage of qualified educators, limited teaching resources, and insufficient institutional support for introducing the language into official and educational use.
Nonetheless, participants expressed confidence that efforts to strengthen the status of the Gagauz language must continue. A proposal was made to create a network of educational and cultural centers where teachers can exchange experience and offer courses for anyone willing to learn the language.
The certificate awarding ceremony became not only a significant event in the life of Comrat State University but also an important step toward preserving and strengthening the position of the Gagauz language in the educational system of Gagauzia. Such initiatives are essential for supporting and developing native languages, contributing to cultural identity and educational growth in the region. Participants expressed hope that, in the future, thanks to the joint efforts of educational institutions, public authorities, and civil society, the Gagauz language will play an even greater role in the lives of Gagauzia’s residents and throughout Moldova.
