The role of SEE University in lifelong learning in Macedonia

The current global financial-economic crisis that has encompassed almost every country in the world has proven to be disastrous for the weak economies throughout the globe. Macedonia, rated lately as one of the world's worst economies regarding its high unemployment, is not an exception and has therefore to undertake steps towards finding a resolution to this problem. In this respect, lifelong learning can play a significant role. This type of education would help the category of unemployed persons find better solutions in terms of their employment in different spheres and enable current employees improve further their skills so that they can keep in step with the latest advancements in the 21st century societies. Apart from being one of the best higher education institutions in the region, SEEU has a lot to offer in the field of lifelong learning, since it has been actively involved in offering different certificate programs in partnership with NGOs, local businesses, municipalities, associations, schools, and universities in the country and abroad, including Skill Soft, Kelly School of Business certification program, Leadership and Community Youth Work certification program, etc. These and other professional development programs offered by SEEU would considerably help in improving the vague picture that has been prevailing in Macedonia for the last couple of years and we hope that it will become the main driving force towards the integration of the country since it is known as the Little Europe at the Heart of the Balkans. (C) 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.