Skopje, 5 November 2025 (MIA) - A regional policy dialogue “From Data Insights to Policy Action: Co-creating Solutions for Quality Education in the Western Balkans” was held in Skopje on Wednesday, organized by UNICEF Europe and Central Asia in collaboration with OECD and European Commission and hosted by the Ministry of Education and Science in North Macedonia, where policymakers, education experts and practitioners from the Western Balkans agreed on a set of shared priorities to strengthen education systems and ensure that every child benefits from quality learning.

During the opening on the first day, Minister of Education and Science Vesna Janevska highlighted: "The PISA assessments show us that we must work on several aspects simultaneously – from strengthening the quality of teaching and extracurricular activities, to supporting students’ well-being and preparing them for how their competencies are tested," the UNICEF Office in Skopje said in a press release. 

During the two-days, representatives from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia have examined the latest evidence, discussed national and regional challenges, and worked together to develop solutions and advance the education in the Western Balkans.

"This dialogue reaffirmed our shared commitment to give every child the opportunity to learn and succeed. By focusing on concrete actions and sub-regional cooperation, we can build stronger and more inclusive education systems for all children," stated Lesley Miller, UNICEF Representative in North Macedonia. 

One of the key outcomes of the dialogue was the agreement to bridge the gap between universities and schools by reforming initial teacher education so that new teachers are fully prepared for the competency based teaching and learning. The participants also emphasized the importance of strengthening the teaching profession through the creation of modern career pathways, and establishing fair, merit-based incentives, reads the press release. 

Additionally, the dialogue stressed that reforms must have a real impact in classrooms - not just exist on paper. To achieve this, it is important to align national assessments and curricula, and empower teachers to support children to master the competencies and skills that are essential for their future.

UNICEF adds that the discussion reflected a growing recognition of the value of cross-border learning and cooperation. To continue the sub-regional collaboration, it was agreed to develop a joint technical and analytical paper that will guide education and policy reforms across the Western Balkans.

Photo: UNICEF