Skopje, 4 December 2024 (MIA) - USAID is committed to inclusivity that strengthens democracy, human rights and economic growth. Through our programs, 420 Roma people have been employed in private companies or through grants for self-employment. These programs go beyond jobs – they create dignity, security and paths to a better future, said the USAID Country Representative for North Macedonia, Jeri Dible, at the opening Wednesday of a job fair in Skopje organized by the Economic Chamber and Romalitico.

“Cooperation is key for progress. Today I welcome Romalitico and the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia for bringing together job-seeking Roma with inclusive employers such as the Lear Corporation, which employed over 200 Roma, including in leadership positions,” Dible underlined.

Dible noted that owing to the partnerships between the Government of North Macedonia and international organizations, most of the stateless Roma in the country now have birth certificates – unlocking access to education, healthcare and employment.

The head of Romalitico, Elvis Shakjiri, said he is proud of the role the organization has played in strengthening the country’s Roma community. 

“Over the past four years we have successfully facilitated the employment of around 420 Roma in private companies through dedicated initiatives connecting unemployed people with the private sector,” Shakjiri said.

The President of the Economic Chamber’s Council for Promotion of Education and Training Quality, Natasha Janevska, said the lack of workers is one of the key issues faced by companies harming the country’s overall economy. 

“The fair should be an opportunity for other companies as well to quickly employ people who are available in our country, which would lead to increased productivity of businesses and the Macedonian economy,” Janevska stressed.

Photo: MIA