Nov 28, 2014 - Children to start education at a younger age to create a solid foundation that ... conferences, please co
Image: Troels Kjems
Conference report Education: Macedonia 2035 Friday 28 – Sunday 30 November 2014 | WP1378 Held at Hotel Radika, Mavrovo, Macedonia
Conference report Education: Macedonia 2035 Friday 28 – Sunday 30 November 2014 | WP1378 Key points This Conference brought together stakeholders from political parties in Macedonia across the spectrum from both government and opposition, from academic institutions and education specialists from relevant international institutions in Macedonia. Education reform is one of the key long-term challenges for Macedonian society. Examining education in Macedonia and looking ahead to 2035, the Conference considered what sort of education is needed for Macedonia to support its continuing economic and social development. Participants discussed which educational issues should be addressed as a priority in future to ensure Macedonia’s students are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to engage in a fast-changing and increasingly competitive and integrated world. Participants heard from Macedonia-based specialists on the key challenges facing education policy in Macedonia at the pre-school, primary and secondary levels. They also heard from a UK-based education specialist on the role of education in society. Subsequent break-out groups looked three core areas of education: a) quality and skills in education; b) values in education; and c) the process of education. Each group looked at the current state of education in Macedonia within the specific area, and established what should be the features of a long-term vision. They identified obstacles to achieving that vision, and proposed measures for overcoming those obstacles. Through constructive and comprehensive discussion of their findings and proposals, the participants came together to develop an agreed eight-point vision for Macedonia’s education. Agreed Vision for 2035 1. Equal opportunities for access to education for all students, regardless of urban or rural location, gender, ethnic origin, religion, socio-economic background, or special needs. 2. Children to start education at a younger age to create a solid foundation that facilitates later formal education. 3. Higher quality of education. Macedonia should aim for recognition in international rankings e.g. as one of top 10 in PISA, TIMSS or in Shanghai Top 500. 4. Competencies for the 21st century. Students must have the knowledge and skills demanded by the labour market, as well as life skills that create citizens with capacity for critical thinking and emotional intelligence. 5. Integrated education supporting an integrated society. 6. Socially responsible citizens who are open and have access to lifelong learning, enabling them to adapt to labour market changes. 7. Targeted, relevant teacher training creates motivated, competent and competitive teachers. This in turn increases society’s respect for the profession, and encourages good quality graduates to view teaching as a worthwhile career.
8. Education producing competitive and capable citizens who contribute positively to Page 1 of 2
Macedonia’s socio-economic and technological development.
Robert Grant, Programme Director Wilton Park | 2 December 2014 Wilton Park reports are brief summaries of the main points and conclusions of a conference. The reports reflect rapporteurs’ personal interpretations of the proceedings – as such they do not constitute any institutional policy of Wilton Park nor do they necessarily represent the views of the rapporteur. Should you wish to read other Wilton Park reports, or participate in upcoming Wilton Park conferences, please consult our website www.wiltonpark.org.uk To receive our e-newsletter and latest updates on conferences subscribe to https://www.wiltonpark.org.uk/newsletter/
Page 2 of 2
