2026

2026

Adoption of the Education Strategy 2026–2032: vocational and post-secondary education priorities
Status: Adopted / Implementation ongoing

Strategy / policy background

In March 2026, the Ministry of Education and Science adopted the Education Strategy 2026–2032 and its Action Plan 2026–2028. The strategy identifies vocational education and training (VET) and post-secondary education as separate priority areas.

Description of the main measures

For VET, the strategy sets out measures to improve the relevance and quality of programmes, strengthen work-based learning and cooperation with employers, and develop the role of Regional VET Centres. It also envisages more flexible learning pathways and stronger provision for digital and green skills. For post-secondary education, the focus is on developing practical, modular programmes aligned with labour-market needs.

Expected effects

The measures are intended to strengthen the transition from education to employment and expand opportunities for acquiring and updating vocational skills. Their effects will depend on implementation during the strategy period.

Sources: Ministry of Education and Science – adoption announcement; Education Strategy 2026–2032 and Action Plan 2026–2028.

2025

Modernisation of vocational education and training Status: Adopted

Strategy / policy background The reform aims to modernise vocational education and training and strengthen its relevance to labour market needs.

Description of the main measures A new Law on Vocational Education and Training introduces modular curricula and strengthens the implementation of dual education. The reform also supports the establishment and development of Regional Centres for Vocational Education and Training. In parallel, the Concept for Vocational Education was adopted as part of the broader strategic framework for vocational education reform, defining a vision for a modern and flexible system based on learning outcomes, modular programmes and stronger cooperation with employers and sectoral councils. The attractiveness of vocational education continued to increase, with around 700 companies participating in dual education programmes in the 2025/2026 school year. Additional reforms included the development of post-secondary education programmes and the strengthening of quality assurance mechanisms, including preparations for the introduction of the State Vocational Matura.

Expected effects The reform improves the quality and relevance of vocational education and strengthens cooperation between schools and employers.

Sources: Law on Vocational Education and Training – Official Gazette No. 3/2025 and 74/2025.

Development of the national qualifications system Status: Adopted

Strategy / policy background The reform aims to strengthen the national qualifications system and its alignment with labour market needs.

Description of the main measures A new Law on the National Qualifications Framework establishes governance structures, including a National Qualifications Framework Board and sectoral councils responsible for the development of qualifications.

Expected effects The reform improves the transparency, quality and relevance of qualifications.

Sources: Law on National Qualifications Framework – Official Gazette No. 3/2025.

2024

Expansion of vocational education capacity and regional networking Status: Ongoing / Implemented

Description of the main measures The Government adopted decisions to establish two additional regional centres for vocational education and training in Strumica and Veles, expanding the national network of regional vocational education centres. In the 2024/2025 school year, 7,075 places were provided in 283 dual education classes, accompanied by scholarship schemes to support students. Reforms also included the development of curricula integrating green skills across several vocational sectors. In addition, teacher training and professional development activities were organised to strengthen the capacities of teachers and mentors involved in work-based learning.