[ Macedonia ]

"Good education, qualified human resources are the key for progress in the modern world, area where Macedonia seriously lags behind. The fact is that the majority of the Macedonian citizens have primary school education or less. It is difficult to attract higher value added investments with unqualified cheap labor. In the first study (pdf) we were interested to find out if there is a fair competition between private and public universities, how new universities are accredited, what are the problems in the procedure and how to rectify them. We give recommendations regarding the structure of the Accreditation Board, issuing of standardized document for all applicants, and securing transparency in the work of the Accreditation Board.

In the second study (pdf) we have studied the problem Macedonian youth face recognizing their diplomas earned abroad. The procedure is expensive. Many legal obstacles exist. Although the law speaks of a system of recognition of diplomas a procedure for nostrification is still undertaken. Compatibility of the academic programs is mentioned as an important criterion for the recognition. Few have the patience to go through the process. Getting PhDs and MAs from excellent universities young Macedonians that return home end up working for international organizations or NGO’s. Their foreign diplomas are not worth at public institutions and universities. CRPM recommends policy changes to stop this brain drain."