Education Minister Mila Carovska presented at a press conference on Wednesday the Ministry of Education and Science’s draft-budget for 2021, which according to her stands at over Mden 23.1 billion, i.e. Mden 1.1 billion more than the previous year.
Over 90% of funds, she added, are intended for improving learning conditions and the education system, while some Mden 1 billion have been allocated for capital investments, i.e. construction of gyms, refurbishing of school buildings, dormitories, etc.
The Education Minister told the news briefing that funds have also been allocated for complete adaptation of three regional vocational education centers in Ohrid, Kumanovo and Tetovo to promote vocational studies and encourage young people to acquire the skills lacking in the labor market.
Aside from infrastructure projects, Carovska said, the new budget entails investments in implementation of key reforms in elementary and high school systems, developing new learning programs and updating education methodology.
Moreover, she noted, Mden 54 million have been allocated for hiring teaching assistants, Mden 900 for scholarships and free meals for students, thus raising the living standard of 50,000 young people.
The Minister also shared at the press briefing novelties in payment of scholarships and digitalization of the process of nostrification and scholarship application.
Additional Mden 122 million have been allocated for timely distribution of paychecks, overtime work and costs for hygiene products and online classes.
Carovska stressed at the news conference that the new budget also entails funds for career development opportunities for teachers.
“The 2021 budget is based on real needs in the education system and is focused on investments and improving learning conditions. We’re building an inclusive education system. The budget clearly reflects the efforts of the Ministry of Education and Science and the government’s priorities. Our main goal is to create a system that will allow children to reach their full potential,” the Education Minister stressed.
