Zelino, 25.06.2025
The Minister of Economy and Labor, Mr. Besar Durmishi, visited the Municipality of Zhelino today (June 25), where, together with the Director of the Employment Agency, Selajdin Beluli, met with citizens, local businessmen and representatives of public institutions. The purpose of the visit was a field presentation of the Operational Plan for Active Employment Programs and Measures for 2025.
The central topic was the extensive support that the Government provides for employment and self-employment – a record EUR40 million, designated for over 10.000 citizens who want to find a job, open their own business, or train for a specific profession.
"This is not just a plan on paper – this is a plan for the future. A plan in which every young person, every woman, every unemployed person has their chance. It is time for action, not for waiting," said Minister Durmishi.
He informed that through the previous Public Calls for active measures for which selection is already underway:
- Measure 1.1: Up to EUR7.000 for starting a business for people of age over 29,
- Measure 1.2: Up to EUR10.000 for young people under 29 with an innovative idea,
- Measure 1A: Up to EUR20.000 for joint businesses of at least two people, total of 6.026 applications have been submitted.
"That's not a number on paper – that's 6.026 personal stories, hopes and ideas. Each application is proof that citizens are not giving up. On the contrary, they are ready to take a step forward," the Minister said.
Special emphasis was placed on Measure 3.1 – Training with a known employer, one of the most successful forms of employment preparation, which directly connects companies and the unemployed. Through this measure:
- employers train staff according to their real needs;
- unemployed people acquire practical skills in a real work environment;
- an opportunity for permanent employment is created after completing the training.
"Measure 3.1 is a bridge - on one side are people looking for jobs, on the other are companies looking for people. Our task is to make that bridge stable and accessible to all," the Minister stressed.
As part of the visit, the measure for subsidized employment was also presented, which calls on employers from micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, social enterprises and civil society organizations to apply for support in creating new jobs.
The measure offers:
- MKD250.000 for employing a young person of age up to 29,
- MKD220.000 for women, Roma, people with disabilities, long-term unemployed and social assistance beneficiaries,
- MKD160.000 for people of age over 29.
Employers are required to hire permanent full-time employees and retain them for between 9 and 15 months, depending on the target group.
The Ministry of Economy and Labor and the Employment Agency continue with field activities across the country. After Zelino, visits will follow in Gostivar, Kicevo, Saraj, Lipkovo and other municipalities with high unemployment rates.
"Citizens should know – the Government does not leave them alone. These are not just economic measures, but concrete chances for a better life. Stay here, start something of your own, or join a growing team – we will support you every step of the way," concluded Minister Durmishi.