Skopje, Маy 6, 2026 – Today, Rector of Mother Teresa University in Skopje, Full Prof. Bekim Fetaji, Ph.D., and the Minister of Local Self-Government, Mr. Zlatko Perinski, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation establishing a new framework for institutional collaboration between the Ministry and the academic community.

The official act follows an initiative launched at the end of last year by the Ministry of Local Self-Government, aimed at directly linking academic expertise and research potential with the real needs of the municipalities. Through the cooperation, joint action is foreseen in areas under local government jurisdiction, offering scientific solutions to citizens’ challenges.

During the ceremony, the Minister of Local Self-Government, Mr. Zlatko Perinski, signed memoranda with six higher education institutions in the Republic of North Macedonia, turning the initiative into a comprehensive platform. Rector of Mother Teresa University in Skopje, Full Prof. Bekim Fetaji, Ph.D., described the step as significant, emphasizing that the engagement of academic resources at the local level is to greatly contribute to improving the efficiency of municipal services and sustainable regional development.

The main areas of cooperation include capacity building through training and workshops for staff development, research support from university experts for local self-government, student practical training in municipal sectors, engagement in the Resource Center for the exchange of best practices, as well as partnership in national and international projects focused on digitalization and modernization of public services.

The memorandum also foresees meetings as needed, as well as the preparation of professional analyses.

The signatory parties may organize events, conferences, and joint meetings with the participation of third parties and international organizations, further strengthening the link between academia and local administration.