IT knowledge brought them a USD 5,000 Prize! Find out the story of two students from Chisinau who won an international competition

Ana Vizitiv and Madalina Griza are students in the 11th grade and are passionate about information technologies. Because they want to bring changes in society and, through IT, to facilitate and improve community life, the girls have completed a project “Augmenting Under-Researched Medical Domains with an Intuitive Querying System on Resourceful Crowd-Collected Data” aimed at facilitate information on Covid-19 in the context of the global pandemic crisis. The idea brought them the special Oracle Academy prize, worth USD 5,000, at the Regeneron ISEF 2021 International Science and Engineering Fair, “System Software” category. Participation was possible thanks to the support of the Tekwill project, which supports women’s empowerment and offers opportunities for them to develop their IT skills.

Ana Chirita, ATIC Strategic Projects Director: “In recent years, the IT sector has registered a dizzying growth, which has led to an increase in export volume, but also the demand for new qualified specialists. Through the prism of our activities, we believe in equal opportunities and in the creation of equal opportunities, therefore, we want to offer opportunities to girls and women so that they can be found in any position. That is why we encourage girls and women to develop their IT skills because this will allow them to open new doors and therefore contribute to the development of the national economy. ”

USD 5,000 for IT knowledge

A few years ago, Ana Vizitiv’s brother together with a project colleague participated in the Regeneron ISEF International Science and Engineering Fair. Enthusiastic about the experience she gained, last year she decided to participate in the national stage “Molda SEF”, where she took 2nd place. Unfortunately, only the 1st place winners are chosen to represent the country at ISEF, but this did not discourage her, on the contrary, this year, having an innovative idea, she entered the competition together with Madalina Griza.

Madalina Griza, winner of the competition: “Our project is related to data analysis and processing, in terms of articles / comments from online health blogs, to be easier to analyse and more practical to use for users. Thus, in the context of the pandemic, even if there is a lot of information related to Covid-19, combining experiences, opinions, posts, conclusions of an impressive number of people, we set out to help them be as informed as possible. As a final product, we have built a system that, once you have introduced a certain problem / question, the algorithm returns a series of similar situations, maybe even solutions but also experiences of the same kind. ”

The girls say that this is not the first time they participate in competitions in the field of information technologies. Each time, the competitions come with a lot of experience, new knowledge, possibilities and many opportunities.

Ana Vizitiv, the winner of the competition: “This competition was special. Why? Because at ISEF we had the opportunity to communicate with representatives from Microsoft, for example, where we were invited to participate in international summer camps, exchange of experience and guidance to continue our work and studies in this field. “

Today’s studies are tomorrow's successes

The winners say that, in order to obtain more knowledge in the field, it is important that students from school are actively involved in extra-curricular activities, courses, competitions, exchanges of experience, etc. Cumulatively, they develop personality and influence choice in making career decisions.

Madalina Griza, the winner of the contest: “I think that the school period is the right time to explore great interests and possibilities, to determine which of them we like or which could mean a future career. For students who already know what they want to do in the future, it is the right time to strengthen their knowledge and strengthen their skills, and for those who are undecided - to find new activities they like. ”

The two students say that they are passionate about mathematics and computer science, and IT is the field in which they would like to continue their studies. Moreover, both Madalina and Ana are convinced that information technologies are more current than ever and the professions related to this field will continue to be in high demand.

Madalina Griza, the winner of the contest: “I believe that technologies will be much more integrated in everyday life, but I want to believe that we will find a balance between real life and the virtual world. Obviously, I would like the IT field to continue to solve many other problems in everyday life, to help the development of society in general. From my experience and belief, the IT industry is full of interesting things, problems that require bright minds, open and prone to change. I urge you to continue your work, your education and never give up. ”

Ana Vizitiv, the winner of the contest: “Don't be afraid to apply the knowledge you have. In the beginning, Google was also an idea. Do you see how it has changed now? I am convinced that IT will continue to advance and produce phenomenal changes in the world economy, and each of us can participate in this change! ”

The Regeneron ISEF 2021 International Science and Engineering Competition took place in May 2021 and brought together approximately 1,900 students from 65 countries around the world. The Republic of Moldova was represented by two teams, finalists of the National Competition of Sciences and Engineering “Molda SEF” 2021, which were delegated to the international stage with the support of the Association of ICT Companies (ATIC) and the Agency on Intellectual Property.

Technological Entrepreneurship in Supporting Digitization of Medicine

Digital technologies can improve access to health services, reduce costs, increase the quality of healthcare and increase the efficiency of health systems. In order to facilitate the cooperation between the field of information technologies and that of medicine, the TEKWILL project, the National Association of ICT Companies (ATIC) and the State University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Nicolae Testemitanu” signed a Memorandum of Understanding. It lays the foundations for a successful collaboration to develop the “Medtech Vertical 2021” – a comprehensive program designed to increase the opportunities of the ICT sector, promote digital education in the medical sector, support innovation and technological health services. The partnership comes in the context in which the COVID-19 pandemic reconfirmed the potential of technological entrepreneurship to diversify medical services and facilitate access or communication for healthcare professionals.

Ana Chirita, TEKWILL Project Director: “Digital technologies bring added value in any field of activity, especially in the field of medicine. We have before us a great opportunity to develop the medical system in the Republic of Moldova and to make it more efficient in the context of the new normality, when the use and involvement of information technologies has become a necessity. “Medtech Vertical 2021” comes to help the collaboration between all actors and find a connection: on the one hand - in detecting the problems facing the field of medicine and public health, and on the other - in providing relevant IT solutions to change the way in which these services are provided to the society.“

Emil Ceban, rector of USMF "Nicolae Testemitanu": “We consider that signing this Memorandum will substantially contribute to the promotion of digital education among all members of the university community, as well as to the development of capacities to integrate digital innovations in the process of university, post university training and continuous medical education, in scientific research activity, in providing specialized medical services in other forms of university activity, with beneficial repercussions on the training process of future medical specialists and pharmacists, as well as the entire health system in the country ”.

Stanislav Groppa, vice-rector for research activity USMF “Nicolae Testemitanu”: Today's event is part of the series of measures implemented within USMF "N. Testemitanu" to implement the provisions of the Strategy for strengthening the field of research and innovation for the period 2020-2030, adopted by the Senate a year ago. Certainly, the implementation of digital technologies in the process of education and research in our University is an imperative of the time and will ultimately favor the increase of the quality of the medical act in the Republic of Moldova. We are interested, together with the representatives of the IT sector, to develop digital solutions based on scientific evidence and data, which will support medical staff and population”.

According to the Memorandum, its signatories aim to develop a series of joint educational programs for the upgrading of medicine, to connect the IT sector to the medical sector, to implement initiatives to create new opportunities, but also to strengthen USMF’s capacity to integrate digital innovations in education.

What are the provisions of the Memorandum?

In this context, the university will contribute to the implementation of educational and entrepreneurial programs, to be carried out by the TEKWILL project, to provide support for updating the curriculum developed within the project, to support the creation of programs dedicated to Medtech and the concept of E-health. In turn, the university will encourage teachers in continuing education to increase their ICT skills and adapt to the current needs of the labour market, as well as supporting public-private initiatives in the field of digital education and career guidance.

According to the document, the National Association of ICT Companies (ATIC) will provide assistance and advice in developing and organizing training courses, workshops, and other educational and training projects. The institution will promote innovation and applied research projects in the field of innovation and technology transfer by encouraging private sector participation in educational activities, research and product development. Likewise, ATIC has undertaken to contribute to the strengthening of the IT entrepreneurial culture at USMF and develop new updated courses or training programs that meet the needs of the industry at local, regional, national and international levels.

Veaceslav Cunev, President of the ATIC Council: “The integration of information technologies in programs from the field of medicine can significantly improve the provision of health services. The partnership comes to reaffirm our commitment to promote ICT in different spheres of society, because technologies can scale industries, giving them added value. Through joint efforts and the contribution of university representatives, we will develop the ICT sector and the convergence between IT and medicine, in order to have a stimulating impact for the entire national economy.”

International partners support the development of technological entrepreneurship.

At present, all sectors are fundamentally re-evaluating their approach, seeking to apply digital innovation, oriented to the needs of society. Thus, certain areas can benefit significantly and can be transformed with the help of information technologies. Encouraging technological entrepreneurship for the development of different sectors is also among the priorities of the TEKWILL project, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Sweden.

Anna Lyberg, Swedish Ambassador in the Republic of Moldova: “The integration of information technologies in the field of medicine can contribute to providing opportunities for the development of services and products in this industry, improving the national economy. Sweden supports sectoral collaboration between representatives of traditional and IT industries, innovation and entrepreneurship, who have demonstrated that they have the capacity to generate solutions that improve living conditions.”

Scott Hocklander, mission Director of USAID in Moldova: “Difficult times require advanced solutions. We believe that the medical system can quickly transform from a traditional sphere into a technology-based sector, capable of providing quality digital services and solutions. USAID supports Moldova's development potential by improving education and entrepreneurship in the field of IT. Today's position of Moldova presents an important opportunity to help the medical system grow, and progress begins with innovative digital education.”

About TEKWILL

With the support of USAID and Sweden, “Tekwill” has been created in 2017 as the Center of Excellence of the ICT sector in Moldova, with the main goal of aligning the field with the requirements of the 21st century. To continue to contribute to increasing the competitiveness of the IT industry and other strategic sectors of the economy, the center has expanded its current fields of activity, becoming in 2019 a complex project at national level. The basic objective of the TEKWILL Project, as a platform dedicated to the progress of the IT sector, is to ensure a major impact on the economic development of the country by improving the entrepreneurial and educational capacities of society members, but also the research and development potential of higher education, in line with the demand in the IT market

ATIC’s 15th anniversary

The National Association of ICT Companies (ATIC) celebrates 15 years of activity. In its 15 years of existence, ATIC has contributed to promoting the development of the ICT sector in the Republic of Moldova, which currently has a share of 7% of the national Gross Domestic Product and has become the umbrella association for 80 companies and 9,000 employees. ATIC was created with the aim of growing the IT and communications market, improving the technical skills of the workforce, protecting investments in the field and participating directly in the decision-making and regulatory process at national and international level.

Marina Bzovii, ATIC Executive Director: “In the last 15 years of activity, ATIC has managed to ensure that synergy between the development of the sector and the promotion of companies' priorities both by implementing projects and by promoting a dedicated agenda. And currently, ATIC's priorities include developing its own long-term strategy, the 2021 White Paper on the ICT sector, which includes all the industry's priority topics, including changes and amendments that could lead to continued development and that aims the priority no. 1 of this sector - human capital”

The successes registered in 15 years of activity show that ATIC has strengthened the sector’s vision, become the most successful industry association, with a positive reputation and a significant contribution to the development of the ICT sector but also a reliable partner for the Government and external donors.

Scott Hocklander, Mission Director of USAID Moldova: “USAID, along with partners in Sweden, has watched with admiration and pride as the ICT industry has grown into a leading industry in the last 15 years here in Moldova, helping to create well-paid jobs in the country, which will stimulate the brightest minds to stay in Moldova, which, in turn, contributes to economic growth based on digital innovation. From 2017 to 2020, the ICT industry increased its annual sales revenues 3 times, from MDL 2.1 billion to MDL 6.6 billion, reaching a share of 3.1% of the GDP of the Republic of Moldova. In 2019 only, the industry grew by over MDL 1.32 billion. This positive development in the ICT sector has an equally impressive increase in the number of companies during this period, from 1700 to 2300 and the staff employed in the industry from 23,300 to 29,600 people. USAID continues to see significant and sustainable potential in the ICT sector. ”

Adam Amberg, Adviser, Head of the Development Cooperation Section, Swedish Embassy in Moldova: “Together with USAID, Sweden supports the development of the ICT sector, through a special partnership with ATIC. I think that this partnership has made a difference in the ICT scenery in Moldova. We are very pleased to see the growth and development of the ICT sector in recent years. From the perspective of Swedish cooperation, we continue to encourage the reduction of the gender gap in the digital sphere. Moldova has been a hidden treasure in terms of the IT industry at European level, but we see how you position yourself on the IT map. It's great to follow you and support you on this journey. ”

During 15 years of activity, ATIC has implemented initiatives aimed at growing the IT market in the Republic of Moldova. And projects related to cultivating technical skills among students, promoting IT careers and preparing the workforce according to market requirements, have always been one of ATIC’s priorities. The projects carried out contributed to the development and cultivation of the skills required on the labour market, and during the 108 initiatives for the development of the labour force, more than 200 thousand hours of specialized courses were taught.
One of the most representative projects of ATIC is the Center of Excellence “Tekwill” – a hub where people connect to ideas, resources, and science, to develop together the ICT sector. Since its creation and until now, TEKWILL, has attracted funds of over 14 million dollars, has hosted 865 thousand hours of training, with over 400 thousand beneficiaries, of which 43.4% are girls and women.

Ana Chirita, ATIC Strategic Projects Director: “We can talk about the achievements we managed to achieve with the help and involvement of the private sector, donors, academia, and, why not, the state, the Government. Probably, if we were to refer to a few figures, we can say that at least every 10th citizen of this country, every 5th school in this country, every university that has a specialty in IT or technical professional college in the IT field, have gone through activities by which we tried to improve the academic environment, the IT environment, the educational environment, so that we can grow the sector. I think we can talk about 40% girls, over 150 thousand beneficiaries in total and over 1000 companies. I think that every second company in Moldova has interacted with ATIC, whether it was a member, whether it came with support, or whether it received support due to the implemented projects. The IT sector, in 2020, managed to surpass any service in terms of exports, i.e. we are no. 1 in exporting services to Moldova. This is also due to those visions that we have positioned over the years.“ For 15 years, the expertise of the members and the ATIC team has made an enormous contribution to changing the legal framework for the development of the IT sector. The association has supported and promoted a competitive regional tax regime for the IT sector, where legislative changes approved by the authorities have also contributed to creating an enabling environment for the operation of IT parks, the adoption of the Visa IT regime - legal initiative that aims to attract foreign investment and to eliminate barriers for foreign investors and professionals, but also for the introduction of tax incentives for IT specialists.

After 15 years, we got here. However, we want to grow and expand digital technologies across the country.