Experimental Field of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Food, Skopje in Dolno Lisice, dedicated to climate change adaptation in agriculture was officially introduced on June 1, marking another important step toward strengthening climate resilience in the agricultural sector across the Western Balkans.
During the opening ceremony, Mr. Boban Ilic, SWG Secretary General of the Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group (SWG) in SEE expressed gratitude to the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Food in Skopje and its academic staff for their commitment and dedication to advancing research and innovation in climate change adaptation. Special recognition was given to Professors Aleksandra Martinovska Stojcheska, Ordan Chukaliev, Vjekoslav Tanaskovski, Sreten Andonov, and Dusko Mukaletov, whose expertise and leadership have contributed significantly to regional scientific efforts in this field. The Faculty’s experts also serve as regional coordinators of scientific activities related to climate change adaptation throughout the Western Balkans.
“The Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Food in Skopje has proven to be a leading institution in the region, particularly in the area of climate change adaptation. Through its expertise and dedication, the Faculty has earned the respect and recognition of its peers across the region,” the Secretary General Mr. Boban Ilic stated.
The event also highlighted the importance of international cooperation and support. Appreciation was extended to the Government of Germany, particularly the Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Regional Identity (BMEL) and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), for their longstanding support of regional cooperation and sustainable agricultural development.
“The efforts and contributions of Germany are highly appreciated. The Federal Republic of Germany has consistently demonstrated its friendship and support for North Macedonia and the wider region, including our shared goal of European Union integration,” the Secretary General noted.
The ceremony further emphasized the growing role of regional cooperation in addressing common agricultural and environmental challenges. SWG continues to expand its network of members and partners, with the Republic of Moldova joining as a new member, while Ukraine and Georgia currently participate as observers. The United Kingdom has also recently joined the growing family of supporters of regional cooperation initiatives.
The Demonstration Field will serve as a practical platform for testing, showcasing, and promoting innovative climate-smart agricultural practices, helping farmers, researchers, and policymakers develop effective solutions for adapting to the impacts of climate change. The establishment of the Demonstration Field reaffirms the commitment of regional institutions and international partners to building a more sustainable, resilient, and competitive agricultural sector for the future.
