Home | News | 04.12.2024

Today, on the occasion of 3 December – the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a ceremony was held, organised by the Institute for Special Education and Rehabilitation at the Faculty of Philosophy in Skopje. This year, the focus of the day's commemoration is on the key role of people with disabilities as leaders, from the global to the local level, guided by this year's theme proposed by the United Nations: „Strengthening the leadership of people with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future“.

At the ceremony, the Rector, Prof. Dr Biljana Angelova, delivered a speech, in which she emphasised that the University 'St. Cyril and Methodius' – Skopje is taking concrete steps to implement the international documents that protect the rights of persons with disabilities, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. She reminded that this Convention, ratified by our country in 2011, sets standards for ensuring equal opportunities and non-discrimination in all aspects of life, especially in education.

In accordance with its international obligations, the University develops and implements policies that guarantee equal access to education for all students, regardless of their disability. It is continuously working to improve the physical and digital accessibility of its facilities and resources, in line with international standards.

Additionally, the University is actively working on the implementation of The National Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2023-2030, which provides for specific steps to advance inclusivity in higher education.

At the end of her address, Rector Prof. Dr Biljana Angelova emphasised that inclusion is a fundamental value that must be constantly nurtured and promoted. She emphasised that the University's primary task is to prepare all students – with and without disabilities – for a world that celebrates diversity, embraces challenges and opens up opportunities for everyone.