On Friday, 15 May 2026, the Romanian National Commission for UNESCO welcomed a group of 13 students from the University of Pittsburgh, participants in the study abroad program Identity and Global Politics in Romania.

The students were received by Ms. Ligia Deca, Secretary-General of the Romanian National Commission for UNESCO, who offered them an overview of Romania’s education system, with a focus on its main structural challenges, recent reforms, and the role of education in strengthening inclusion and civic participation.

The meeting addressed topics such as the performance of Romania’s education system in the European and international context, disparities in access and outcomes between urban and rural areas, the impact of socio-economic conditions on educational pathways, as well as the main reform directions introduced through the new education laws adopted in 2023. Special attention was given to minority rights in education, the principles of non-discrimination, inclusion and cultural diversity, as well as measures aimed at reducing segregation and supporting students in vulnerable situations.

The visit offered the American students an opportunity to gain a better understanding of educational realities in Romania, the connection between public policies, minority rights and UNESCO values, as well as the role of the Romanian National Commission for UNESCO in promoting educational and intercultural dialogue.

The meeting took place within the framework of the program Identity and Global Politics in Romania, coordinated by Dr. Horia M. Dijmărescu, Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Pittsburgh. The program aims to familiarize students with the political, social and cultural dynamics of contemporary Romania through meetings with representatives of public institutions, academia and organizations relevant to understanding Romania’s role in the European and international context.