The University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology ‘George Emil Palade’ in Târgu Mureş has announced the completion of the ‘Ergopolis’ project, a significant initiative aimed at transforming technical education in the region. Funded through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), the project represents an investment of nearly €30 million and is set to reshape the curriculum to meet the demands of the job market.
Overview of the Ergopolis Project
The ‘Ergopolis’ project was launched on 3 October 2023 and has been developed over nearly three years, concluding on 31 August 2026. Its primary goal is to radically transform the technical education system at both secondary and university levels in Mureş County and the Central Region of Romania. This initiative focuses on aligning academic curricula with the actual requirements of the labour market, ensuring that students are better prepared for employment upon graduation. The project is directed by Liviu Moldovan and has been a collaborative effort involving numerous educational and industrial partners.
Investment and Infrastructure Development
With a total value of 148,196,945.65 lei, approximately €30 million, the ‘Ergopolis’ project has led to the construction of a dual professional campus on a two-hectare site owned by the university in the Tudor Vladimirescu district. This modern infrastructure includes a state-of-the-art educational centre, student dormitories, a cafeteria, and recreational sports facilities. The campus houses advanced laboratories for Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing, machine tools, and facilities for processing and controlling thermoplastic materials, as well as applied automation and computer science labs.
Collaborative Educational Model
The ‘Ergopolis’ consortium comprises 27 public and private partners, including the Mureş County Council and various secondary educational institutions. Notable industrial partners such as Azomureş, Heineken Romania, and Hirschmann Automotive are also involved. The educational model developed through this initiative divides students’ time equally between theoretical courses and paid practical internships at partner companies. This dual approach not only enhances learning but also provides students with essential work experience, ensuring a smoother transition into the workforce.
Future Prospects for Students
The project enables the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at UMFST to offer seven dual-degree programmes, including Medical Engineering, Computer Science, and Applied Automation. Students benefit from scholarships, accommodation, and access to cutting-edge technical facilities. This initiative is designed to facilitate rapid integration into the job market, with a focus on producing highly qualified professionals who meet the evolving needs of the economy. The collaboration between academia and industry through the ‘Ergopolis’ project aims to create a sustainable network for training skilled human resources in Mureş.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Ergopolis |
| Total Value | 148,196,945.65 lei (approximately €30 million) |
| Project Duration | 3 October 2023 – 31 August 2026 |
| Number of Partners | 27 |
| Primary Institution | UMFST ‘George Emil Palade’ |
| Location | Târgu Mureş, Romania |
| Key Industry Partners | Azomureş, Heineken Romania, IRUM, Hirschmann Automotive, Kastamonu Romania |
| Educational Programmes Offered | 7 dual-degree programmes |
The ‘Ergopolis’ project represents a significant step towards modernising technical education and aligning it with market needs.
WHY IT MATTERS
The Ergopolis project exemplifies how public funding can effectively transform educational systems to meet industry needs, fostering a skilled workforce.
Reported from economica.net, 2026-08-28. The Tender Wire is published by Otnox.
