Ceremony of ”Nicolae Testemitanu” State University of Medicine and Pharmacy – "80 years of european vision, identity and excellence"

On October 23, 2025, Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy of the Republic of Moldova celebrated "80 years of European vision, identity and excellence".

The solemn celebration began with the message of Rector Emil Ceban, who addressed words of gratitude to all those that contributed to the development and consolidation of the institution’s prestige through dedication and professionalism. "Today, after 80 years of prolific activity, the University looks to the future with confidence and responsibility! In a world of continuous transformation, we remain faithful to the values ​​of medicine: truth, professionalism, humanity and respect for life! The doctor's oath has been the same for eight decades - to serve man, regardless of time or border. And our noble mission is to pass this oath on to those who are being trained today in the classrooms of our university - to the young people who will continue to carry the torch of knowledge, care and hope. They are the future of medicine! Through them, tradition continues to breathe, grow and illuminate! They are the ones who promote the values ​​of the Alma Mater: quality, excellence and achievement", the Rector stated.

The ceremony was honored by the presence of H.E. Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova, who emphasized that Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy not only trains specialists, but also strengthens the bond between people and the state, the confidence that whenever you need help, professionals, well-trained doctors are there to help you.

"The university has the role of helping the entire society to be aware of and responsible for their own health too. The medical community has the mission of encouraging people to protect their health throughout their lives, to prevent illness and to adopt a balanced lifestyle. Each of those who have laid at least one brick in the foundation of this institution has contributed to saving countless lives. You have demonstrated that excellence is achieved through passion, hard work and vision," the head of state mentioned.

The Romanian Royal Family also participated in the event. "Her Majesty and I consider these 80 years that you are celebrating today an extremely important part of our life and that of the nation. The graduates of the University carry on your fame – from the north to the south of the continent, from the west to the east – and prove beyond any doubt that your country has long been integrated into the European Union through them," His Royal Highness Prince Radu specified.

H.E. Iwona Piórko, Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, congratulated the University leadership for its vision, the academic community for its rigor, and the students for their energy, curiosity and determination. Nicolae Testemitanu University has been always aligning itself with European standards in education and science. The European Union welcomes these advances and maintains its commitment to supporting the health sector, as well as education, on the European path of the Republic of Moldova", reiterated the European official. 

Minister of Health Ala Nemerenco stated that Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy represented the foundation of medicine in the Republic of Moldova: "For 80 years, this institution has been training dedicated people, professionals with a calling, who put their knowledge and heart at the service of citizens’ health. The Ministry of Health remains a loyal partner of the University, supporting its efforts for modernization, internationalization and continuous development."

Minister of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova Dan Perciun congratulated the medical academic community for everything it had managed to build so far. "The university has every chance to become a regional pole of excellence in training future generations of doctors. We will continue to invest in teachers, researchers, and young people who follow the residency program. Because a strong university is built, first and foremost, with passionate and dedicated people," the official noted.

H.E. Elaine Marshall, Secretary of State of North Carolina, USA, Doctor Honoris Causa of ”Nicolae Testemitanu” University, sent a video message to the university community: "The visionary leadership and foresight of former rector Dr. Ababii were essential for establishing the four fundamental medical partnerships between the University of Medicine and the universities of North Carolina. His foresight laid the foundation of fruitful collaboration for decades. Rector Emil Ceban has continued this tradition of excellence, expanding and strengthening cooperation with partners in North Carolina. Thank you for your leadership, friendship and dedication to building a healthy future for Moldova and beyond." 

According to Prof. Gigel Paraschiv, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Education and Research of Romania, Nicolae Testemitanu University trains specialists to save millions of lives, bring hope and instill confidence. I express my respect for the vision and work of Professor Nicolae Testemitanu, who believed and fought for medical education in Romanian in the Republic of Moldova.”

In turn, Prof. Christoph Lange from the University of Lübeck, Germany, Doctor Honoris Causa of ”Nicolae Testemitanu” University, noted that “it is a great privilege and an honor to say "Happy Birthday!" to the University, which celebrates 80 years of impressive development and continuous commitment, on behalf of the academic community in Germany that has lasting partnerships with representatives of the academic and medical community in the Republic of Moldova.”

With a message of appreciation, friendship and partnership came Prof. Sorin Mihai Cimpeanu, President of the National Council of Rectors of Romania: "Nicolae Testemitanu University is an example of academic excellence and a benchmark not only for higher education in the Republic of Moldova, but also in Romania, Europe and beyond. The university lays the foundation of the entire healthcare system in the Republic of Moldova and that is no small achievement. Vivat, Crescat, Floreat!"

"It is a historic moment, 80 years of performance of excellence. 80 years in which important steps were taken for European integration, not only territorial, but also academic. After a great past, a great future!", mentioned in his address Prof. Alexandru Vlad Ciurea, honorary member of the Romanian Academy, Doctor Honoris Causa of Nicolae Testemitanu University.

The event brought together state officials, partners and representatives of the international and national academic environment, well-known personalities in the field of medicine from the country and abroad, managers of medical and healthcare institutions in the country, graduates, teaching staff, students and employees of the University.

The anniversary program included numerous virtual exhibitions with the theme "80 years of innovation in health and medical education" and the screening of a short film - a cinematic portrait dedicated to eight decades of education, research, and medical profession.

The ceremony culminated with an artistic performance by musician Violeta Botezatu.

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