Author: Marija Vasilevska

Community service and extracurricular activities offer students a platform to explore their interests, develop essential life skills, build character and make a positive impact on the world around them. These experiences contribute to their personal and professional development, and prepare them for a successful and fulfilling future.

On April 24, at the Student Information Center at the University "St. Kliment Ohridski" - Bitola, the third workshop of MAAA's "Alumni encouraging community services and extracurricular activities" project supported by the U.S. Embassy North Macedonia was held.

During the event, Ms. Verica Jordanova, the president of MAAA, along with the members of the Executive Board, Zorica Trajkova Strezovska and Irena Popovska, presented the project's initiatives to the students. They encouraged the students to actively participate in volunteer activities and to establish or join different student extracurricular clubs, fostering networking and cooperation among students on university campuses. The students were also addressed by the Vice-rector Jasmina Bunevska Talevska and then by Ljubica Angelkova, a member of MAAA, who graciously shared her experiences from her time spent in the USA. Additionally, the president of the University Student Assembly delivered an inspiring speech, further motivating the students. The workshop provided a platform for students to learn about the project's activities, gain insights from experienced alumni, and become motivated to actively engage in community service and extracurricular pursuits.

Almost a month later, on May 23, at the State University in Tetovo, the fourth and last workshop was held within the same project. During this workshop, the president of MAAA, Verica Jordanova and the members of the Management Board, Bashkim Ziberi, Irena Popovska and Ognen Janeski, presented the project activities in front of the students while at the same time encouraging them to take an active part in volunteer activities and founding or initiating student extracurricular clubs. All this with an aim of networking and collaboration between students and activation of the student life on university campuses. The rector of the University, prof. Dr. Kushtrim Ahmeti, Pranvera Kasami from ILPP, Dan Robish from Peace Corps, as well as Professor Dr. Ali Musliu, member of MAAA spoke at this event.

Through this particular project, MAAA, in collaboration with four universities in North Macedonia, spearheaded the establishment of volunteer and extracurricular interest clubs. These clubs are envisioned to serve as platforms for students to actively participate in a variety of activities, with MAAA members assuming roles as mentors, trainers, and enthusiastic participants. To ensure the success of this initiative, MAAA has forged partnerships with various stakeholders, including municipalities, NGOs, the business sector, and university professors. Through these collaborations, MAAA aims to raise awareness among students about the numerous advantages of engaging in volunteer work and extracurricular activities. By emphasizing the significance of community action and the value of giving back to society, MAAA strives to inspire a sense of civic responsibility and foster a culture of active involvement.

Following the successful organization of the workshops, MAAA is delighted to witness the positive impact of these workshops on student engagement. Students have enthusiastically volunteered at various events organized within the four state universities, showcasing their dedication and commitment to community service. These initiatives served as a remarkable follow-up from the workshops organized at the state universities, providing students with practical exposure and a deeper understanding of the profession.

These accomplishments serve as a testament to MAAA`s commitment and the dedication of the students involved. MAAA will continue to support and encourage students in their pursuit of community service and extracurricular activities, as these experiences have the power to shape their lives positively and contribute to the betterment of society.