The Bucharest University of Economic Studies (ASE), in collaboration with the World Bank and EY Romania, announces the launch of the MBA program in Education Economics and Leadership (EEL). This new initiative aims to train leaders in education and public policy to address the challenges faced by the educational system in Romania and the region.

The program targets decision-makers and managers in both public and private education, as well as professionals interested in an applied approach to the relationship between education and economics. It aims to achieve sustainable and effective transformations in educational performance while reducing socio-economic disparities by integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applicability.

Prof. Nicolae Istudor, Rector of ASE, stated: "The launch of this MBA is a pivotal moment for education in Romania. The program will provide educational leaders with the necessary skills to transform the system and reduce disparities between regions and communities. It is a real opportunity to prepare a new generation of experts capable of implementing national reforms."

Bogdan Ion, Country Managing Partner at EY Romania and Chief Operating Officer for EY Central and Southeast Europe and Central Asia, added: "The MBA in Education Economics and Leadership is essential for professionals aspiring to make a significant contribution to the education sector, shape effective policies, and support the development of a well-prepared workforce for a competitive economy."

The initiative is designed to make a significant contribution to education by offering participants a platform for professional development, providing advanced economic knowledge applicable to education, and leadership skills necessary to influence and shape effective educational policies in the long term.

Achim Schmillen, Lead Economist and Program Leader for Human Development at the World Bank, commented: "Creating a group of experts with solid knowledge in economics and education increases the effectiveness of policies and programs in education, thereby contributing to transformations in the education sector in Romania and the region. Through this MBA, we are preparing leaders capable of reforming education systems and promoting equity and quality in education, thus reducing educational outcome disparities based on regions, living environments, or socio-economic status."

The program will be organized by ASE and will offer a blend of high-level theoretical knowledge and practical applications, with a flexible structure that allows participation in both physical and online formats. It also aims to train leaders who will implement innovative educational policies and promote sustainable economic growth through quality education.

Julie Teigland, EY EMEIA Area Managing Partner, stated: "Digital and educational transformation must be based on a human-centered approach. Through the MBA program in Education Economics and Leadership, we aim to create a community of leaders who place the human dimension at the center of the change process. This program offers a balance between economic knowledge and leadership necessary to manage the complexities of transformations in education."

The MBA in Education Economics and Leadership will be available starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, marking a new chapter in the training of educational leaders in Romania.