The President of the Republic of Macedonia Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, has presented the family of the Professor Krume Kepeski with the Order of Merit for Macedonia. On behalf of the family, the Order has been received by Dr. Jovana Kepeska, daughter of Professor Kepeski. The President addressed to the present admirers of the work of Professor Kepeski –

It is my great honour today to address you on the occasion of posthumously presenting the Order of Merit for Macedonia to Prof. Krume Kepeski a linguist, an author of the first Macedonian grammar and founder of the grammatical work, author of textbooks, and prominent pedagogue, translator, collector of Macedonian folklore art and cultural activist.

In addition to his extensive scientific work embodied in the promotion of the Macedonian literary language through over fifty grammar editions, tenths of translations of classical literature works and a large number of articles and papers published in periodicals, Kepeski left a significant mark as a long-time professor at the Teacher Training College of St. Kliment Ohridski in Skopje.

But his educational-pedagogical activity was far greater than the activities of the Department of the Teacher Training College and training to students. Thanks to his constant work and activity Kepeski has became a true people’s educator constantly present in the public. Actually his words are the best witness for his dedication and devotion: The whole effort and energy I have devoted to the language and people.  With today's award of the Order of Merit for Macedonia we have the opportunity with dignity to express our gratitude to Prof. Kepeski for his entire engagement and all achievements in the affirmation of the Macedonian language and culture.

Respected, we are all aware that the language is our national and cultural fortress standing tall in front of all those who deny our identity and independence. Hence, its preservation requires continuous work, just as Professor Kepeski has done throughout his life. The language is not an unchangeable category, it continuously develops by accepting, on daily basis, new words, terms of the different scientific areas, in the newly specific information and technical disciplines, but also in the everyday speech. Considering that the Macedonian language is used by a relatively small number of speakers at a time of globalization and language internationalization, absolute care and attention should be given for its correct and consistent use. It is not only educational and social responsibility. That is also a task of each of us individually. Trying to fulfil the covenant of Professor Kepeski and nurture our Macedonian language in our homes, work places, public and social events.

At the end, please let me point out that the creative genius of Kepeski was expressed not only in the field of linguistics but also in painting, acting, choral singing. It is exceptionally important that his creative activity was always woven with great humanism and love for his country and his people. Conferring posthumously the Order of Merit for Macedonia to Prof. Kepeski we acknowledge his important work and confirm that our country knows how to remember and celebrate the prominent.