Moldova: 27,000 students join anti-plagiarism campaign
Youth in the Republic of Moldova are promoting honesty. Dozens of students recently participated in a flashmob dedicated to upholding academic integrity and combating issues such as corruption, cheating, plagiarism prevention, and the inappropriate use of artificial intelligence (AI) in exams.
The event was part of the national campaign, "I Choose to Be Honest! Integrity Starts With Me," carried out by the Ministry of Education and Research. Participants conveyed a common, powerful message: fundamental change can only happen through student accountability and taking personal responsibility.
The campaign specifically targets malpractice in higher education. The action aimed to encourage young people to take ownership of their results and opt for fairness in the learning process, linking this cultural shift to the nation’s political objectives.
"I choose to be honest in life, in exams, and in everything I do!"
"Corruption is a very big problem; we as individuals need to be more responsible and unique," said one student, reflecting the widespread youth engagement in the initiative.
Another participant noted the short-sightedness of AI misuse: "We now use artificial intelligence in exams and tests, but in the future, when we become specialists, we will no longer have this assistance with us in the presence of clients."
"I came to get involved and to help solve this problem. It has always been present, but now is the time to solve it or at least prevent it," a third student added.
"The goal of this flashmob is to raise awareness among the younger generation. We convey this message because if we want European integration, we must have honest citizens, young people who rely on the results of their own work, not on plagiarism and other unwelcome academic frauds," mentioned the State Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Adriana Cazacu.
The national campaign is a critical part of Higher education reform efforts, taking place throughout the current academic year in state higher education institutions. As part of this drive, 27,000 undergraduate students will participate in a series of training sessions focused on academic integrity and the prevention of illegal practices.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
