Experts of Independent Agency for Accreditation and Rating evaluates work of Nicolae Testemitanu Medical University of Moldova

A commission of the Independent Agency for Accreditation and Rating (IAAR) has evaluated the activity of the Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Moldova (USMF) for the purpose of institutional reaccreditation according to the standards of the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME).

Konrad Juszkiewicz, the president of the Commission of the Independent Agency for Accreditation and Rating (IAAR), said that 90 percent of the success of the Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy belonged to the managerial and teaching team.

‘’At each meeting with the commission members, representatives the University’s subdivision showed excellent education; thus, we got answers to most questions. The entire team performed at a professional, transparent and efficient level,’’ Juszkiewicz noted.

In the context, the president of the external commission emphasized the relevance of the Force Med and Force Farm projects for the development of research infrastructure and the implementation of the concept of education through research. At the same time, the president highlighted the usefulness of the University Simulation Center in Medical Training, pointing out that it represents a successful model in developing the practical skills of the University's students, as well as for countries of the region.

At the same time, outstanding progress was noted regarding the leap recorded by  the University in terms of the Hirsch index in the Scopus scientometric database, which has doubled in the last five years.

IAAR coordinator Malika Saidulayeva emphasized the positive dynamics of the institution in recent years since the last international institutional accreditation, appreciating the quality of study programs and activity processes.

The IAAR representative informed that the commission members' reports would be presented to the University after they are reviewed by the IAAR Accreditation Council on April 30. Afterwards, a comprehensive evaluation report will be issued.

The IAAR commission also identified aspects that require attention, especially the overloading of teaching and scientific staff. As for the institutional infrastructure, it was described as excellent, but experts reiterated the need to create a university clinical hospital that would facilitate the University's activity, education, practice, medical and pharmaceutical research.

The Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Moldova got the status of an internationally accredited institution according to WFME standards for the first time in June 2019.