Romania’s current education reform agenda marks the country’s most ambitious effort to modernise its education and skills system since the post-democratic transition. Backed by significant investments, the reforms aim to raise quality, expand access, and equip learners with the skills needed to thrive in a changing economy. This push for change comes at a critical juncture. Despite strong economic performance, urban-rural disparities in living standards are widening, labour force participation remains low among youth, women and Roma, and informal employment is high. Improving educational outcomes through more effective policies and practices will be essential to placing Romania on a more sustainable and inclusive growth path.
This report assesses Romania’s policies and practices against those of OECD and reference countries in Central and Eastern Europe, covering the full learning lifecycle—from early childhood education and care to lifelong learning. It identifies the system’s major strengths and challenges and explores how Romania can draw on OECD evidence and international experience to advance its education reform agenda. The report will be of interest in Romania, as well as in other countries looking to raise the quality, equity and efficiency of their education systems.