17th March 2026, Skopje – The Ministry of Finance, through the Public Finance Academy, has launched the implementation of the 2026 Annual Training Program, incorporating a total of 17 trainings focused on carefully selected topics, which are designed to enhance institutional capacity and improve public finance management.
The first training, held on 13th March, focused on the Fiscal Strategy – a document outlining the fiscal policy medium-term strategic directions and objectives. A thorough understanding of this strategy among staff is essential for both their and attainment of institutional goals and priorities. The training was delivered by Toshe Panovski, Head of the Budget and Budget Policy Unit, and Aleksandra Altievska Angelikj, Head of the Budget and Funds Unit.
The participants were welcomed by the Minister of Finance, Gordana Dimitrieska-Kochoska, who emphasized the importance of continuous education and professional development of administrative capacities:
“Joint cooperation with other institutions is an important factor in achieving better results and preparing relevant analyses. A system works best when the individuals within institutions thrive and consistently deliver improved results. Therefore, applying knowledge as a driver of change directly contributes to improving the system’s overall performance. Through the Academy and its trainings, we are fostering networking and inter‑institutional communication with the aim of enhancing knowledge and strengthening institutional capacities. When employees are empowered with knowledge, institutions become more efficient.”
The training brought together representatives from various public sector institutions to the end of improving and strengthening medium‑term budget planning, focused on a five‑year perspective, and deepening their knowledge of contemporary approaches to public finance management.
During the training, participants were introduced to the primary objectives of the new Organic Budget Law, along with its benefits and the key changes as stipulated by the law. In addition, the training addressed the concept of medium‑term budget planning and the process for preparing the Fiscal Strategy.
On 16th March 2026, as part of the Annual Training Program, the second training, focused on Risk Management in Public Entities, was conducted for public sector employees, including coordinators for strategic and operational risks, heads of organizational units, and internal auditors.
The training aimed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the methodological aspects of risk management and to equip them to effectively carry out all stages of the Methodology for Risk Management in Public Entities.
The training was delivered by Mite Mitevski, PhD, Head of the Central Harmonization of the Public Sector Internal Financial Control System Department and a recognized expert, by using an interactive approach that included presentations, group discussions and case studies.
Participants were introduced with the new provisions in the legal framework for PIFC and international standards for internal audit, the Methodology for Risk Management and its connection with the strategic planning, as well as the roles of key actors, including the internal audit within the process. Special emphasis was placed on practical examples and good practices, including the management of corruption‑related risks.
The combination of presentations, exchange of experience and interactive discussion enabled the participants to advance both their knowledge and practical skills, with the trainings significantly contributing to the strengthening of institutional capacities and improving fiscal planning and risk management processes.
Ministry of Finance, through the Public Finance Academy, remains committed to continuous education and human resource development in the public sector, with the overarching goal of enhancing the quality of public finance management and boosting institutional efficiency.
