The School of Young Political Leaders, one of the longest-running and most influential educational programs of the Association for Participatory Democracy ADEPT, has officially launched its new edition. Over its previous 15 editions, the program has trained more than 800 alumni — members of parliament, mayors, experts, NGO leaders and public servants — demonstrating its real impact on shaping new generations of leaders in the Republic of Moldova.

The School of Young Political Leaders has launched a new edition, marking the return of one of the most important training programs for civically and politically engaged youth, implemented by the Association for Participatory Democracy ADEPT.

Established in 2000, the School ran 15 consecutive editions until 2017, after which it entered an eight-year pause. Relaunched in 2025, the program has so far produced more than 800 alumni, including numerous MPs, mayors, ambassadors, experts, NGO leaders and public officials who actively contribute to public life.

The launch event blended a festive atmosphere with the warmth of a reunion across generations. Alumni of previous editions — now professionals in the legal, administrative, diplomatic and civic fields — shared their reflections on how the School shaped their development. They spoke about the “Thursday evenings at ULIM,” about meeting “experts they had only seen on television before,” and about how the School taught them to debate with arguments, negotiate ideas and build bridges between people with different viewpoints.

This year’s edition brings together 36 participants, including 19 with political affiliations, representing 9 different formations. The project coordinator, Grigore Stegarescu, described the program as a true “democratic exercise in miniature,” designed to strengthen critical thinking, leadership, communication skills and understanding of electoral mechanisms. The program will run from November 2025 to June 2026.

The School of Young Political Leaders is developed by the Association for Participatory Democracy ADEPT and is financially supported by the National Endowment for Democracy.