Moldova State University as a benchmark

[Hibush]

IHE has a field-trip report on a visit to Moldova State U. This university is in the eastern part of a region that is culturally and linguistically tied to Rumania, but socially and politically oriented to Russia. If you have concerns about your own institution, benchmarking against them may be encouraging.


How is enrollment in your college, or attendance in your courses?

"Enrollment numbers have fallen dramatically since the 1990s. In addition to poor demographics, absenteeism amplifies the problem. At Moldova State University, there were very few students in evidence, around two dozen. The campus was practically deserted. This is despite the fact that the summer examination session was in progress when even frequent no-shows were expected to show up to take examinations." Wikipedia says there are over 20,000 students there.


How is the pay in your college?

"Moldova is not an expensive country and prices for most necessities are moderate. Nevertheless, the salary that university faculty receive—$120-$200 per month—is barely enough to cover the cost of food"


Do you require students to buy the textbook you wrote?

"Book publishing may also be good business for faculty members. Some professors sell their books and keep the record of those who bought the book and those who did not. Some respondents say that if a student does not buy this book, he or she is unlikely to pass the examination."


How does your academic-integrity program work?

"The academic community does not tolerate reporting corruption well. This is also a Soviet tradition, when those who report wrongdoing are ostracized by the community."  "Some dissertations may be successfully defended and doctorates received in exchange for bribes."


Are students attending for the right reasons?

"Higher education in Moldova is popular, and academic degrees are in high demand. It is very popular to have a BA, MA, or doctorate. For many, prestige and social status make a doctorate a must have."