Eurydice

2023 – Strengthening work-based learning and practical skills

In 2023, reforms related to transversal skills and employability focused on strengthening work-based learning and practical training in vocational education.

National reforms in higher education    

2023 – Strengthening links between higher education and labour market needs

In 2023, reforms in higher education focused on improving the relevance of study programmes and strengthening links between higher education institutions and the labour market.

2026

Strategic concepts for vocational education and post-secondary pathwaysStatus: Adopted

Strategy / policy background The reform supports the strategic development and modernisation of vocational education and training.

2026

Development of the Concept for General Secondary EducationStatus: Adopted (2026)

Strategy / policy background The reform supports the modernisation of general secondary education and strengthening competence-based learning.

2026

Public consultation on the new Education Strategy 2026–2032Status: Under consultation

Strategy / policy background In early 2026, the Ministry of Education and Science (Министерство за образование и наука) launched a public consultation for the new strategic framework and its Action Plan 2026–2028.

Description of the main measures The draft strategy for the ECEC sector focuses on:

Structure of the chapter

This chapter provides a thematic and chronological overview of national reforms and policy developments in North Macedonia since 2024. The reforms are organized into the following areas:

• Early childhood education and care
• School education
• Vocational education and training (VET) and adult learning
• Higher education

• Transversal skills and employability