Skopje, 29 November 2024 (MIA) - Minister of Local Self-Government Zlatko Perinski and the Country Director for the U.S. Peace Corps in North Macedonia, David Reside, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation reaffirming the strategic partnership between the two countries and cooperation in various areas, the Ministry said in a press release. 

In the coming period, over thirty new U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers will serve in municipalities and community development in the country. Through cooperation with local administration, schools and civil society organizations, the volunteers will have the opportunity to learn the Macedonian language, get to know the culture, but also share experience and help in English language instruction, the Ministry of Local Self-Government said in a press release. 

"The mutual exchange of experience and knowledge is welcome for both parties. This mission will significantly help to strengthen the capacities of our municipalities, non-governmental and youth organizations, and will greatly contribute to the promotion of inclusive education in the interest of the local population and society as a whole," Minister Perinski said, extending gratitude for the cooperation so far and in the future. 

U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers receive orientation and training before in country service and work with communities on locally prioritized projects in Education and Community Economic Development sectors.

Starting December 10, thirty-six people will work on a volunteer basis in two sectors, promoting teaching and inclusive education in primary and secondary schools and in the Community Development sector in non-governmental organizations and in the administration of the municipalities of Rosoman, Pehchevo and Zrnovci. 

In 2005, Peace Corps North Macedonia initiated a community development program to assist public institutions, community groups, and NGOs in building their capacity to develop and implement sustainable programs and activities. Throughout the years, as part of the cooperation, 91 volunteers worked in 49 municipalities across the country, and only in recent years 25 people volunteered, the Ministry notes.  

Photo: Ministry of Local Self-Government