On October 15, 2024, the fourth Steering Committee meeting of the “Quality Education for All” project took place in Skopje, North Macedonia. This initiative, implemented by the Council of Europe and funded by Germany, aims to enhance inclusive and democratic education in the region. Representatives from various sectors gathered to review progress and outline future activities.
Key Takeaways
- Support for Inclusive Education: H.E. Ms. Petra Drexler, Ambassador of Germany, emphasized the importance of education in fostering multiculturalism and ensuring equal access to education for all communities.
- Mentorship and Training: The project has facilitated mentorship visits to 25 pilot schools and delivered two capacity-building training modules focusing on democratic culture and intercultural learning.
- International Collaboration: A study visit to Croatia provided valuable insights into inclusive education strategies, particularly for Roma students.
- Future Commitments: The Steering Committee reaffirmed its dedication to advancing inclusive education at both local and national levels.
Meeting Overview
The meeting commenced with remarks from H.E. Ms. Petra Drexler, who reiterated Germany’s commitment to promoting inclusive education in North Macedonia. She highlighted the role of education in developing skills necessary for thriving in multicultural environments. Her statements were supported by Oleg Soldatov, Head of the Council of Europe Programme Office in Skopje, and Vesna Atanasova from the Education Department, who stressed the importance of collaboration in achieving educational equity.
Achievements Since April 2024
The committee reviewed several key achievements from April to October 2024:
- Mentorship Visits: 25 pilot schools received guidance on implementing democratic and inclusive practices.
- Training Modules: Two training modules were delivered:
- Online Module: Conducted from April to May 2024.
- On-Site Workshops: Held in June 2024, focusing on democratic culture and addressing controversial topics in classrooms.
- Study Visit to Croatia: North Macedonian officials learned about effective inclusive education strategies, particularly for integrating Roma students.
These initiatives have significantly contributed to the integration of democratic competencies into school development plans and daily practices.
Future Directions
Looking ahead, the Steering Committee discussed future priorities, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration and commitment to inclusive education. The Council of Europe remains dedicated to supporting North Macedonia in creating equitable educational environments for all students.
The meeting concluded with optimism regarding the ongoing success of the “Quality Education for All” project and its positive impact on the educational landscape in North Macedonia. The commitment to fostering inclusive and democratic education is expected to pave the way for a brighter future for all communities in the region.
