Implementation of bologna process at the ss. Cyril and Methodius university in Skopje: a view from inside

This paper deals with the description of the reforms in higher education in the Republic of Macedonia, made in the last decade. More precisely, the aim of this study is to discuss the implementation of Bologna principles in Ss. Cyril and Methodius University by comparing the reports from both the internal and the external evaluations in two follow-up periods (between 2002/03 and 2005/06, and between 2006/07 and 2009/10). Several official documents are analyzed for this purpose. The results show that the European credit transfer system (ECTS) in first and second cycle of studies is applied in every member of the University and a number of positive changes have been made in all areas of its activity. However, some expected difficulties and weaknesses are pointed out, due to the objective economic situation in the Republic of Macedonia or to the subjective understanding of “Bologna philosophy”. Apart from official reports, a view from inside can bring on surface additional examples of ECTS misinterpretation and illusion of progress. To avoid the catch of distorted Bologna, it is suggested all participants in this process to take seriously recommendation for improvement given by European University Association.