Moldova marks Romanian Language Day with national dictation

Around 3,500 people took part today in the fourth edition of the National Dictation, held in Chisinau and at least 16 districts across the country to mark Romanian Language Day. Organized by the Ministry of Education and Research under the patronage of the Presidency of the Republic of Moldova, the National Dictation brought together students, teachers, parents, grandparents and people of different ages to celebrate the Romanian language and test their knowledge.

Speaking at the Great National Assembly Square, Prime Minister Vasile Tofan highlighted the role of the Romanian language in preserving identity and restoring national dignity. The Prime Minister recalled that the return to the Latin alphabet and the restoration of the Romanian language to the center of public life were among the major achievements of the national revival, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES.

“The language for which people fought back then is today the language in which we can live freely. Our language carried us through much harder times than those we face today, preserved our identity when others tried to change it, and helped us regain our dignity. Today, it accompanies us on our path forward as a free and European country,” the Prime Minister said.

Minister of Education and Research Dan Perciun stressed the current generation’s responsibility to preserve and pass on the Romanian language.

“Nothing we celebrate today came by itself. Neither the independence of the Republic of Moldova, nor the restoration of the Romanian language to its rightful status, nor the return to the Latin alphabet. They were won. Therefore, today, when we celebrate the Romanian language, we first and foremost celebrate all those who believed in this ideal and had the courage and determination to fight for it,” he said.

A new feature of this year’s edition was the event’s increased inclusiveness. For the first time, students with visual impairments also participated in the National Dictation. The Ministry of Education and Research provided the necessary conditions for their participation, including the required space and materials.

Participants wrote an excerpt from “Testament” by Gheorghe Urschi. To ensure equal participation, the dictation text was announced on the morning of the competition.

The texts written by participants will be assessed by a special commission established by the Ministry of Education and Research. Those who achieve outstanding results will be invited to a festive event, where they will receive awards from the event’s sponsors.

The National Dictation was launched by the Ministry of Education and Research in 2023 as part of efforts to promote the Romanian language and encourage its correct use. The initiative has brought together thousands of participants across its three previous editions.

Photo: Government of Moldova