CHANGES IN THE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS OF THE SS. CYRIL AND METHODIUS UNIVERSITY IN SKOPJE Prof. Dr. Velimir Stojkovski Rector Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje

The major reform in higher education in Europe is the creation of EHEA and ERA until The main objectives of the reforms at European level are implemented nationally as well. Governments, higher educational institutions, students and certain international organizations contribute to the development of EHEA. In addition, the universities shall be dedicated to the development of innovations by transferring the knowledge to the entire society. Integration of the universities, the industry and other service organizations should be improved and supported by the state authorities.

The position and development stages of the University “Ss. Cyril and Methodius” in Skopje in its 60 years of existence is of great importance in the new requirements for the designated road to Europe and globalization. Similarities between states and processes with appropriate Eastern European institutions. Directions: joint higher educational area determined by dynamics, mobility, recognition of qualifications, efficiency, high quality and competitiveness.  Commitment to implementation of the Bologna Declaration principles. Presentation of the integration process at university level.

Autonomy/ legislation in education and science EDUCATION AND SCIENCE (ACTS) CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA LAW ON HIGHER EDUCATION LAW ON RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES LAW ON TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT

Freedom in research and application of results Autonomy in management Autonomy in creating the syllabus International cooperation

“Ss. Cyril and Methodius” University in Skopje in the higher educational system Today, “Ss. Cyril and Methodius” University in Skopje is a functional community composed of 21 faculties, 9 research institutes and 9 accompanying institutions. Over 40, 000 students are enrolled at under-graduate studies, 15,900 students at master studies and there are 700 foreign students at the University. More than 110,000 have graduated, 6,000 have completed master studies and 2, 700 have completed doctoral studies.

“Ss. Cyril and Methodius” University in Skopje “St. Climent Ohridski” University in Bitola State University in Tetovo “Goce Delcev” University in Stip 73,3% 8,6%13,6% 4,5% Teaching and academic staff at the state universities in the Republic of Macedonia

The on-going reforms at the “Ss. Cyril and Methodius” University in Skopje are headed towards implementation of the new Law on Higher Education, complete implementation of the Bologna reforms and keeping the University traditions: - introducing system of degrees; -quality assurance; -recognition of degrees and qualifications; -higher education and research; -social dimension; -mobility; -active collaboration and participation in EHEA. Implementation of the Law on Higher Education and the Bologna system

Science and research The role of the “Ss. Cyril and Methodius” University in Skopje as a research centre is of great importance to the economic development of Macedonia. Innovations are creative process of transforming ideas (existing and new) and technologies for commercial purposes. The University should participate more actively in research and development by transferring knowledge to the entire society and enhancing the integration among the University, industry and other organizations. One of these modalities of cooperation is the European Information and Innovation Centre in Macedonia. In the EU progress report for Macedonia from , in chapter 20, this centre received an excellent grade on the activities, being the first one among countries from the Western Balkans to develop innovations and entrepreneurship.

Project fund of “Ss. Cyril and Methodius” University in Skopje NATIONAL FP6 NATO IAEA UNESCO COST BILATERAL TEMPUS EUR * (2003/2007) OTHER

Research projects in different fields of study Fundamental/applied projects Natural science and mathematics Technical sciences Mechanical engineering Biotechnical sciences Social sciences classic studies Development projects 15% 32% 14% 15% 10% 14% 3% 83% 1% 13%

Results from the development projects 34% 4% 18% 2% 26% 5% 11% New products New materials New technological procedures New technological lines Optimal use of the existing technological processes Rationalization of production Improvement of life quality

Which are the obstacles ? The Document on Institutional evaluation, prepared by an independent, objective international commission indicated few obstacles: - passive attitude towards changes in the structure is a serious weakness; - the economic situation in the country has strong effect on the on-going processes in “Ss. Cyril and Methodius” University in Skopje; - the University has not sufficient funding in all areas of its activities; - the state restrictive approach to renew the staff, affects the quality of the activities.

How to continue in the future? UNIVERSITY LEVEL enrolment policy and organization of studies at university level; Implementing the obligations of the Bologna Declaration (European Credit Transfer System, self- evaluation, accreditation); implementation of external institutional evaluation; continuous reinforcement of the quality educational services; mobility of students and academic staff; competitiveness and compatibility of the European and world academic labour market; planed scientific research with cooperation of the economy; reinforcement of international cooperation at university level. NATIONAL LEVEL coordination in the government sectors; legal interventions; establishment of supporting bodies; state programme on higher educational development; programme on long term financing; continuous coordination and monitoring of changes