Romania to Award Didactic Career Bonus in 2026, With Stricter Spending Rules

After a prolonged period of administrative hurdles and complex negotiations with the European Commission, Romania is set to disburse the didactic career bonus for the 2025-2026 school year. This financial incentive, amounting to 1,500 lei, aims to support educators, though its utilization is subject to stricter regulations than in previous years.

The bonus is designated for approximately 267,000 teachers and auxiliary educational staff, funded entirely by European Union funds, totaling over 413 million lei. Notably, non-teaching staff who previously received a smaller bonus will no longer be eligible. The revised ordinance, a product of discussions with the European Commission, addresses concerns about the scheme's financing and structure.

Significant changes have been implemented regarding the use of the bonus funds. A minimum of 65% (975 lei) must be allocated to professional development courses. The remaining amount can be spent on specialized books and other materials directly related to teaching activities. Teachers will be required to provide proof of how the funds were utilized, including uploading certificates for completed professional development courses within five months.

This initiative marks the final year for the didactic career bonus program. Previous iterations allowed for more flexible spending, including IT equipment purchases, with up to 30% of the funds usable at the teacher's discretion. The current, more stringent rules reflect a shift towards prioritizing professional growth and accountability in the use of European funds.

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În termen de maximum 5 luni de la data utilizării sumei aferente primei de carieră didactică pentru achiziționarea cursurilor de formare profesională, beneficiarul final personal didactic şi personal didactic auxiliar are obligația de a încărca în aplicația informatică dezvoltată de către Serviciul de Telecomunicații Speciale certificatul care atestă absolvirea/participarea la cursul de pregătire profesională.