Households spent over 18,000 denars on restaurants and hotels, under 700 on education
Average household last year spent more on hospitality while money for schooling fell to under 700 denars.
Household spending in North Macedonia is moving in two opposite directions: families are allocating far more to restaurants and hotels while spending on education has dropped to very low levels.
Big gap in last year’s spending
Data for last year show the average household spent more than 18,000 denars on restaurants and hotels, while spending on education remained under 700 denars. The disparity highlights a shift in how family budgets are being used.
Analysts say the growing share of money going to hospitality services is notable given the small amount devoted to schooling. "Experts warn that insufficient investment in education over the long term can affect the quality of teaching and pupils' knowledge."
These figures do not necessarily mean families value education less in principle, but they indicate that current disposable income is increasingly consumed by dining and travel-related services rather than by expenses linked to learning.
Economists and education specialists say the pattern could have consequences if it persists: reduced household investment in education combined with limited public spending may weaken future learning outcomes and workforce skills.
Observers recommend monitoring the trend and considering measures to ensure that spending on education does not lag behind other household priorities for the sake of long-term development.
Photo: press material from the event
