Overview and Legal Framework 2025-2026

In North Macedonia, there is no specific initial education pathway exclusively designed for teachers and trainers working in adult education and training.

According to the Law on Adult Education, teachers and trainers are required to have relevant qualifications corresponding to the field in which they provide education or training. These qualifications are typically obtained through higher education or relevant professional experience.

The legislation defines different roles in adult education, including trainers, facilitators and validation experts. The requirements for these roles are determined by national regulations.

Initial preparation for work in adult education may include participation in training activities related to adult learning, depending on the type of provider and programme.

The specific requirements may vary depending on the type of adult education provider and programme.

Sources: Law on Adult Education

Formal Initial Education (The Andragogue Profile)

Formal education for experts in adult education is organized at the university level. The profile of Andragogue (expert, teacher, and researcher in adult education) is obtained by completing the university study programme at the Institute of Pedagogy, within the Faculty of Philosophy at "Ss. Cyril and Methodius" University in Skopje. This programme offers studies in the first, second, and third cycles and is aligned with European standards, focusings on the planning, organization, and evaluation of adult learning.

Non-formal Training and Certification For trainers and instructors who do not hold a degree in andragogy, further training is often required. In accordance with the Law on Adult Education, providers of accredited adult education programmes must engage staff who have completed relevant training for working with adult learners.

Further education and certification for teachers in adult education are organized by:

• The Public Institution Adult Education Centre (AEC): Which maintains a database of certified trainers and verified programmes.
• Accredited Non-formal Providers: Various organizations offer state-verified further education programmes that issue recognized certificates.

Occupational Standards 

To ensure quality, a national Occupational Standard for Educator (Level 5 of the NQF) has been established. This standard defines the key competences for educators, including preparing training materials, managing the learning process, and evaluating individual learner achievements. This standard serves as the basis for the Adult Education Centre to verify non-formal programmes for teachers and trainers.