Around 14,500 first-graders have enrolled in North Macedonia’s primary schools for the 2026/27 school year so far, data from the Education Ministry revealed. Enrollment continues through September, but the figure points to a continuing demographic decline.
In 2016/17, 23,266 children enrolled in first grade. The decline is already affecting schools, with around 200 fewer primary-school classes and 100 fewer secondary-school classes this year. Twenty-six rural schools have no first-graders enrolled.
The ministry says teachers with permanent contracts will not be laid off and plans to expand full-day classes.