North Macedonia becomes newest Member of WorldSkills Europe
WorldSkills Europe Members have formally welcomed North Macedonia as the newest (34th) Member country.
North Macedonia’s membership was ratified on 10 September at the WorldSkills Europe General Assembly 2025, which took place alongside EuroSkills Herning 2025.
The official membership of North Macedonia is organised by the Centre for the Development of Vocational Education (CDVE), the main public body responsible for improving and developing vocational education and training (VET) at the national level. The Centre undertakes numerous initiatives to enhance knowledge, opportunities, and skills for students, promote excellence in VET, and support participation in international skills competitions.
Becoming a Member of WorldSkills Europe means that North Macedonia will be able to participate in EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027 and in future EuroSkills Competitions and related activities.
“We are delighted to welcome North Macedonia as a Member of WorldSkills Europe and look forward to the new perspectives, insights, and knowledge they will bring to our existing Members. As our membership continues to grow, so does the commitment of all our Members to drive up standards of excellence in skills and to inspire the next generation of young professionals across Europe,” said Ben Blackledge, Chair of the Board, WorldSkills Europe.
The Official Delegate of North Macedonia for WorldSkills Europe is Goran Spasovski, and the Technical Delegate is Sonja Slavkovikj, Advisor for Health and Social Care at CDVE. Both have been actively involved in the development, modernisation, and improvement of VET, national skills competitions, and the promotion of skills across North Macedonia.
Sonja Slavkovikj, North Macedonia Technical Delegate, spoke of the significance of North Macedonia becoming a Member of WorldSkills Europe: “Becoming a Member of WorldSkills Europe is a great honour and privilege for our country. We are proud to join an organisation that represents the gold standard in vocational excellence, and we are committed to upholding the values and quality that define this prestigious network.
“This membership opens new doors for our institutions to elevate vocational education through the exchange of experiences, policies, and best practices across Europe. It empowers educators and trainers to innovate, collaborate, and continuously improve the learning environment. For our young people, it is a powerful platform for recognition, an opportunity to showcase their talents, gain international exposure and build a future rooted in skill, confidence, and ambition.
“We are grateful to Swiss development organisation, Helvetas, for their support for the Education and Employment project in North Macedonia, and through the process of applying to become a Member of WorldSkills Europe.
“Together, through WorldSkills Europe, we will reach excellence, sustainability, and digital advancement ensuring that our country’s talent is not only competitive, but visionary.”
The Centre for the Development of Vocational Education leads national initiatives such as annual skills competitions in multiple sectors, teacher training programmes, and projects promoting vocational education and training. These initiatives have contributed to over 70% enrolment in vocational schools among students completing primary education. CDVE also facilitates international cooperation and exchange with other WorldSkills Europe Member countries, ensuring that students, teachers, and mentors gain exposure to global best practices in skills development.
Participation in WorldSkills Europe provides North Macedonia with an excellent opportunity to showcase its achievements in VET, exchange knowledge and experience with other Members, and contribute to the ongoing improvement of skills education across Europe. By joining the WorldSkills Europe family, North Macedonia reinforces its commitment to developing high-quality vocational education and training, supporting youth in acquiring the skills needed for the workforce of the future.