The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov today in his Cabinet received the students with the highest average grade (GPA) of the second year of studies at the faculties of social sciences at the South East European University.

President Ivanov noted that constant improvement of quality of education is of utmost importance, and, therefore, it is necessary to consider opinions and suggestions of students, future academic citizens of the Republic of Macedonia, having in mind that the future development of our society and country depends directly on them.

During the two-hour meeting with the President, 20 best students of social sciences presented their views, problems and challenges faced, but also their proposals for improvement of concrete processes and conditions in the higher education.

Liridona Veliu, Political Science student, said the youth is a huge resource of a state, but the lack of good perspective can also be a problem.

”I think such meetings with the President are really positive and a good opportunity to get him acquainted with our problems, expectations and what we want to be in the future. This is a good opportunity to meet people we only see on the TV screens”, Veliu said.

Among the general remarks presented by the students is the adaptation of the Bologna process in the Macedonian educational system - credit transfer system, student exchange and mobility. At the meeting with the President, the students expressed their interest in the possibilities for scholarships, education continuation and advancement in the European scientific centers, which would enable them to transfer their experiences gained abroad in our state.

"We do not see our prospects only in Macedonia but also abroad, we would like to see what we can learn and provide our contribution to our country", student Arijeta Rexhepi said. She added that the meeting with President Ivanov is a good opportunity to discuss how their problems could be solved.

According to the students of the South East European University, social sciences in our country are generally underestimated with limited prospects for employment, which raises additional questions about their future after graduation. President Ivanov told them not to lose hope and with their knowledge they would be able to make a break through in the social hierarchy, because quality is always needed and appreciated. Since you are among the best students provides you good chances to be successful in life, President Ivanov said.

It is also of students' interest to have greater opportunities for practice and practical training. They put the emphasis on the quality of mandatory practice and noted that the practical lessons organized by the faculties are often ineffective. Students indicated the need for appointment a mentor within the company or institution where the practice takes place, which will lead them through the practical experience.

President Ivanov congratulated the students on their success, saying that he is glad to hear open discussion on their problems and challenges, which indicates their willingness to contribute to improving the overall educational system.

"You are a generation of audio-visual media, and in such conditions access to information and knowledge is great. Through internet you can find information about scholarships and other opportunities for studying and training. The Government of the Republic of Macedonia also grants about 200 scholarships annually to study abroad", the President said and encouraged students to apply.

The students were unanimous in their position that they are honored that the President showed interest and concern for their students' everyday life and the curricula and teaching program for upgrading their knowledge, and expressed support for future similar meetings. They also expressed gratitude to President Ivanov on awarding the Order of Merit to the SEEU, marking the 10th anniversary of the founding of the University.