A methodology for closing the gap between the
competences of students and recent graduates and
labour market needs. The case of the Republic of
North Macedonia
The youth unemployment is one of the most pressing problems for every economy. For addressing
this issue in the Republic of North Macedonia, numerous project initiatives and activities are in the
phase of planning and implementation. Part of these is the implemented project: ‘Building capacities
for better employability’. Through the project activities, it was proposed to be institutionalized the
stakeholder cooperation for matching education curricula according to labour market needs. In order
to increase the employability of students and graduates, the main aim which is also the goal of this
study, was developing a methodology for closing the gap between the skills of students and graduates
and the Labour market needs, by enhancing the entrepreneurial education dominance in high
education curricula. Through advanced understanding of the entrepreneurial mind-set, new
opportunities in teaching and learning can enhance the University provision. For that purpose, case
studies for the best UK practices in employability were developed and a survey for investigating the
needs and requirements of the Macedonian high-educational sector was conducted.
The research findings comprised rich informative set of recommendations that was a base for
developing the methodology for closing the skills gap. The methodology was organised in four main
levels with a number of institutions (actors) and activities (measures) related to them. The application
of this methodology resulted with an outline of a stakeholder plan that offers insights into other areas
of study and research possibilities.
The contribution of this study is twofold. It adds on the literature for high-sector education and
employability, but also it has practical implications for all stakeholders responsible in coping with the
unemployment issue. The proposed methodology assists in monitoring the labour market changes and
addressing them with improvements in the university curricula accordingly. It could be a powerful tool
in the hands of the stakeholders for better employability of the students/graduates and can facilitate
whole process. Overall, it will support the Republic of North Macedonia’s future strategies at
Government, University and Faculty level in their strides toward creating more skilful and employable
youth