Discrimination in Education. Case Study: Southern Moldovan Schools

Abstract

The goal of the current study is to examine the extent to which discrimination occurs in southern Moldovan
schools and to identify its predominant forms in educational environments, attempting, based on the research findings, to foster recognition of discrimination and encourage the prioritisation of educational initiatives that address the most common forms of discrimination, to decrease their occurrence in schools. To that end, the article provides a theoretical framework regarding various forms, types and manifestations of discrimination and discusses a survey on the experiences of discrimination reported by secondary and high school students from different schools across Cahul District. The survey reveals that a large percentage of students, mostly girls, have been or are being subjected to discrimination in school on various grounds and at differing frequencies, although it tends to arise rarely for the majority of students. Other key findings show that physical appearance, age, and gender discrimination are the prevalent forms of discrimination encountered in southern Moldovan schools and that they are usually manifested verbally. This general overview of the incidence and nature of discrimination in the schools of Cahul district could enhance awareness among the teaching and administrative staff, guide their attention toward the most problematic areas of discrimination within their schools, and concentrate efforts on addressing these issues while promoting a more inclusive learning environment.