Is Skopije right to open a school just for Roma?
The nomadic Roma
population of Macedonia will be able to attend a unique school from next
September. In a residential district of the capital Skopije, the first
secondary school built explicitly for the Roma will open its gates. Together
with two new primary schools, it will allow Roma children to begin and complete
their schooling in their own language. This isn’t just rare; it’s actually a
unique opportunity, seeing as the Romani language isn’t taught in Macedonia’s
schools, except as an option in the third year. The school, built over 4,000
metres squared, has a library, a gym and many other facilities. By offering
scholarships and several benefits for those enrolling, the Ministry of Educationhopes
to combat Roma absenteeism, which is typical of the community, instead
encouraging general student participation in lessons.
