In N. Macedonia, there has been a persistent shortage of qualified professionals trained to work with people who use drugs. A significant factor behind this issue is the fragmented and insufficient approach to addiction education within the country’s higher education system. Faculties that train professionals in fields such as medicine, social work, psychology, law, and security offer only limited coursework on drug use and related crime, typically consisting of a few lectures per year. Moreover, the lack of a dedicated department of addictionology further widens the gap in specialized education, leaving professionals unprepared to effectively address addiction-related challenges.
Recognizing this critical need, HOPS (Healthy Options Project Skopje) took action in 2011 by launching a summer school on addictions. This initiative was designed to equip young professionals from relevant faculties with the essential knowledge and skills required to work in addiction treatment and drug-related crime prevention. Despite the success of this program, financial limitations led to its suspension for the last four years, leaving a void in the education of future professionals in this field.
The direct beneficiaries of this initiative include students from the Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Social Work and Politics, Faculty of Psychology, Faculty of Law, and Faculty of Security. These students represent the future workforce that will fill critical roles in institutions and civil organizations providing services to people who use drugs. By offering them specialized education, the program ensures they are better prepared to face the complexities of addiction treatment and prevention.
Through the education and training of this new generation of professionals, the summer school initiative promises long-term benefits for North Macedonia’s drug policy and treatment infrastructure. Institutions and civil organizations that work with people who use drugs will gain access to well-trained, knowledgeable staff capable of addressing the intricate challenges posed by addiction. This will not only improve the quality of care and support provided to individuals struggling with drug use but will also enhance the country’s overall response to drug-related issues.
Investing in the education of young professionals is crucial to building a more effective and comprehensive approach to drug use and addiction in North Macedonia. Programs like the summer school on addictions play a vital role in bridging the educational gap, ensuring that future professionals are equipped to handle the complex realities of addiction treatment and policy. By continuing to invest in such initiatives, North Macedonia can create a stronger, more sustainable framework for addressing drug-related challenges and improving the lives of those affected by addiction.
