Skopje - Today, the USAID Interethnic Integration in Education Project, together with Primary School Zivko Brajkovski and the Municipality of Butel, celebrated the completion of renovations at the school. The process of refurbishment, financially supported by United States European Command (EUCOM) and USAID, created a better learning environment for interethnic integration in education.

“Parents and teachers play a critical role in interethnic cohesion and integration, so I urge all of you to consider the seriousness of that role, and to demonstrate a positive role in your communities,” said Col. Jeffrey Predmore, U.S. European Command Senior Defense Official.  “Nothing could have a greater impact on kids’ behavior – now and later as adults – than these critical lessons you share with them.”

The USAID Interethnic Integration in Education Project is assisting ten more communities and schools to improve their school facilities, including accessibility for students with disabilities. The project is a four-year, $5.2 milion initiative that is co-financed by USAID and the U.S. European Command, which will work with all relevant educational stakeholders in support of the Government of Macedonia’s efforts for ethnic integration. The project will build awareness and provide diversity training, technical assistance, and incentives to school boards, principals, teachers, and administration officials. For more information please visit: www.pmio.mk 

NOTE TO EDITORS:

The American people, through USAID, have invested over $500 million in Macedonia since 1993. USAID is working with the people of Macedonia to create jobs, strengthen democratic institutions and practices, enhance integrated education, and prepare students for the workforce. These initiatives improve the quality of life and support Macedonia’s transition to a stable and prosperous democracy. USAID provides economic and humanitarian assistance in more than 100 countries. For more information please visit http://macedonia.usaid.gov and USAID FB page http://www.facebook.com/USAIDMacedonia.