Press Release

USAID and other donors celebrate the renovation of the Nikola Karev school and pay tribute to its legendary student – Tose Proeski

November 28, 2007

The American people, through a joint collaboration between the USAID Primary Education project (PEP), the Government of Macedonia, the Municipality of Krusevo, Peace Corps and other donors, celebrated the successful renovation of the Nikola Karev school in Krusevo. This project – which included the installation of new energy efficient aluminum windows and renovation of the school façade – marks the end of the first phase of renovations by the PEP project.

Students from Nikola Karev elementary school in Krusevo welcome Ambassador Gillian Milovanovic (large photo)

“This year alone, almost 500 students and school personnel will benefit from this project. Thousands more will benefit in the future,” said U.S. Ambassador Gillian Milovanovic at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “Here in Krusevo, and particularly at the Nikola Karev school, I know we are all thinking of Tose Proeski – a great artist and a great humanitarian. In some way, I know he is with us today,” said Milovanovic.

Ambassador Gillian Milovanovic takes part in cherry tree planting in the courtyard of Nikola Karev school in honor of late Tose Proeski. (large photo)

Vice Premier Zivko Jankulovski and the Mayor of Krusevo Lefkija Gazoska also acknowledged Tose Proeski and his humanitarian work in support of education in Macedonia. As part of the ceremony, the dignitary guests planted a cherry tree in the schoolyard in Tose’s honor.

This project marked the successful completion of the first phase of PEP school renovations, during which eight schools received approximately $30,000 each from USAID for infrastructural improvements, with municipalities providing contributions as well. The project will renovate up to 100 primary schools during its four years of implementation.  
 
NOTE TO EDITORS: The American people, through USAID, have invested nearly $500 million in Macedonia since 1993. USAID is implementing projects that create jobs, reduce corruption, and prepare Macedonian students for the workforce. These initiatives improve the quality of life and support Macedonia’s transition to a stable and prosperous democracy. USAID provides economic and humanitarian assistance in more than 100 countries. For more information please visit http://macedonia.usaid.gov.