Academic guidance

Academic guidance in adult and lifelong learning has increasingly been linked to the development of validation of non-formal and informal learning (VNFIL) in North Macedonia. Initial steps in this area started in the previous decade and were further strengthened through the new Law on Adult Education, adopted at the end of 2024 and in force since 2025. The new legal framework regulates validation of non-formal and informal learning for the first time in a more systematic way, as a process of identifying, documenting, assessing and certifying knowledge, skills and competences acquired outside formal education. Validation is initially foreseen to be implemented in Regional VET Centres with adequate capacity and trained staff. The new Strategy for Adult Education 2025–2030 also places particular emphasis on VNFIL, lifelong guidance, outreach measures and the development of basic skills. At institutional level, the Ministry of Education and Science and the Adult Education Centre play a key role in the governance and implementation of this area.

Psychological counselling

Psychological counselling in education in North Macedonia is provided mainly through the school support services, which include professional associates such as psychologists, pedagogues and other specialist staff, depending on the level and type of institution. Their role includes supporting pupils’ and students’ personal, social and educational development, identifying learning and behavioural difficulties, providing counselling, and cooperating with teachers, families and external services where needed. Recent reforms have further strengthened support mechanisms, especially in school education. In 2025, secondary education reforms introduced additional support measures for vulnerable groups, including educational mediators, educational assistants and specialist support through resource centres and inclusive teams. In vocational education, efforts have also been made to strengthen human resource capacities and student support services in schools.

Career guidance

Career guidance in North Macedonia is addressed through education, employment and lifelong learning policies. It is supported by strategic and legal documents in the fields of education, vocational education and training, adult education and employment. In recent years, the policy focus has increasingly shifted towards lifelong guidance, stronger links between education and the labour market, and support for learners and jobseekers in making informed education and career choices.

Career guidance is provided through several institutions and mechanisms. In the education system, schools and higher education institutions offer guidance and counselling, while in adult learning the new Strategy for Adult Education 2025–2030 highlights lifelong guidance as a key priority. In secondary education, reforms adopted in 2025 introduced career counsellors as a specific role in schools, responsible for supporting students in career planning, self-assessment and transitions to further education or employment. Outside the formal education system, the Employment Service Agency also plays an important role by providing professional counselling and career guidance, especially for unemployed people and other jobseekers.