Ombudsman: No child must be left out of education

The Ombudsman opened the new school year with a clear appeal that no child in North Macedonia should be forgotten, neglected or left alone in accessing education.

In a public message marking the start of classes, the Ombudsman said that education must be not only formally guaranteed but also real, accessible and of good quality for every child. "No child must be forgotten, neglected or left alone," the statement said, stressing that ensuring conditions for exercising the right to education is a shared responsibility.

Practical needs and vulnerable groups

The Ombudsman emphasised that while one child may attend a nearby school, another must travel; for some families supplying school materials is simple, for others it represents a serious financial burden. Free education should therefore mean removing obstacles so every child can attend school uninterruptedly and progress.

Measures the Ombudsman highlighted include timely provision of textbooks and learning materials, free and accessible transport for children entitled to it, safe and accessible school environments, and appropriate support for children and families in need. Special attention must be given to children at social risk, children with disabilities, those in rural and remote areas and pupils at risk of absenteeism.

The office also urged authorities and schools to prevent and recognise peer violence early. "Peer violence, whether it occurs in the classroom, in the schoolyard or online, must not be ignored or defended as "child's play"," the Ombudsman said, calling for every reported incident to be taken seriously and followed by an appropriate response and support centred on the best interest of the child.

The Ombudsman called on competent institutions, local government units and schools to continue working so that no child is excluded from education due to poverty, distance, disability, violence or any other circumstance. Parents, teachers and professional services were asked to listen to children, encourage them to speak about problems, and promote pupil ombudspersons as a mechanism for students to participate in protecting their rights.

The Ombudsman remains available to any child, parent or citizen who believes a child’s rights have been violated or their exercise obstructed. Phone: 02 3129 335. E-mail: contact@ombudsman.mk.

Photo: press material from the event