The film caravan of the "Promoters of Democracy: Education through Film" project continues to inspire and empower the youth of Moldova throughout the 2025-2026 school year. In partnership with the Ministry of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) is proud to announce that the short film "Stația Schimbării" (The Station of Change) has been included in the recommended resources for both formal and non-formal learning activities within the thematic decades. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the project’s ongoing mission to foster democratic education and civic engagement among Moldovan students.
A Growing Reach: Engaging Youth across Moldova
In the current school year, KAS representatives are conducting film screenings and guided discussions in 36 middle and high schools across 16 districts of Moldova, reaching over 1,300 students and teachers. This continues the successful trajectory of the Promoters of Democracy initiative, which in 2003/2004 had already impacted more than 800 students across the country.
These screenings, accompanied by facilitated discussions, aim to spark dialogue among students, helping them to connect the lessons from the film with real-life applications in their communities. By reflecting on the actions of young individuals who have made a difference through civic engagement, students gain insights into how they, too, can create positive change.
The Film: A Catalyst for Civic Action
At the heart of this project is the short film "Stația Schimbării" (The Station of Change), produced in 2023. The film showcases the stories of 10 young people from Moldova who, through their active involvement, have initiated civic projects that have positively impacted their communities. These stories of dedication, perseverance, and creativity serve as powerful examples for students, demonstrating how one can create meaningful change by taking responsibility and engaging in community-driven initiatives.
The film, therefore, acts as both a tool for education and an inspiration for young people. It presents a clear narrative on the possibilities of civic involvement, and highlights the importance of community engagement, encouraging students to reflect on their own ideas for local development.
Empowering Students: From Reflection to Action
The film screenings are followed by thought-provoking discussions that challenge students to reflect on their roles in the community. They are encouraged to identify problems or challenges they see in their neighborhoods and consider practical ways they can take action. The objective is to help students develop a deeper understanding of the types of communities they belong to, the resources available to them, and how to mobilize those resources effectively.
Promoting Democracy through Film: A Vision for Moldova’s Future
The Promoters of Democracy. Education through Film project was initiated by the scholarship holders of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation’s SUR-PLACE Scholarship Program in the Republic of Moldova. The program aims to promote democratic values and active citizenship among young people, motivating them to become proactive members of their communities. By drawing on real-life stories of civic engagement, the project seeks to inspire students to make a tangible difference in their surroundings.
Through this initiative, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation aims to shape a new generation of informed, engaged, and responsible citizens who are not only aware of the challenges facing their communities but also equipped with the knowledge and skills to take action and drive positive change.
A Step Forward in Civic Education
As the Promoters of Democracy project continues to grow and evolve, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation remains committed to its mission of strengthening democratic values through education. By integrating film as a tool for learning and reflection, this initiative makes civic education more accessible, engaging, and relevant to the next generation of leaders in Moldova.
The partnership between KAS and the Ministry of Education and Research ensures that this important work reaches students across the country, empowering them to become the leaders and change-makers of tomorrow. Through their involvement in the project, Moldovan youth are learning that they have the power to influence their communities, and that democracy is not just an ideal but a lived reality they can shape with their own hands.
Link for the film: https://youtu.be/E6QZx-KEm7g?si=IQK2kbfCWfLb9i5o
