On December 12, 2024, at the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle forIndependence, an Honorary Academy was held in the presence of numerous guests to mark the jubilee of the UKIM Institute of Agriculture – Skopje. This event concluded a series of activities organized to celebrate the 80th anniversary of its founding.
The ceremony began with the national anthem, followed by performances of the academic community's anthem Gaudeamus igitur and the anthem of the University "Ss. Cyril and Methodius," performed by the Mixed Choir "Dragan Shuplevski" and the Symphony Orchestra of the Faculty of Music, under the baton of Prof. Sasho Tatarcheski.
The opening speech was delivered by the Director of the Institute, Prof. Dr. Viktor Gjamovski. Subsequently, speeches were given by the Rector of the "Ss. Cyril and Methodius" University in Skopje, Prof. Dr. Biljana Angelova, and the President of the Republic of North Macedonia, Prof. Dr. Gordana Siljanovska Davkova.
In his address, Prof. Dr. Viktor Gjamovski emphasized the significance of commemorating this jubilee for the Institute and the generations of people who have worked there, recalling the difficult circumstances under which this institution was founded, its progress, and the challenges ahead:
Today is a day to celebrate and reflect on the resilience, innovation, and perseverance of the Institute and all its generations of employees. This momentous occasion allows us to think about the past, note and celebrate our achievements, and look to the future with a clearer purpose.
The establishment of the Institute of Agriculture at that time, immediately after the war, was an act of faith in the resilience of our people and their potential for growth, even in the most challenging circumstances. This decision planted the seeds for numerous scientific discoveries, agricultural progress, and educational achievements that have benefited us and continue to do so today.
As we look forward to the next 80 years, the challenges are even greater. Our world is changing rapidly; populations are growing, climate patterns are shifting, and food systems are under increasing pressure. However, I am convinced that the next chapter in the Institute's history will be defined by the same dedication to excellence and progress that has been its hallmark for 80 years.
Above all, we must honor the legacy of our predecessors by continuing to push boundaries, investing in research, and placing agriculture at the core of our national development. With each new innovation, the Institute should continue to serve as a bridge between science and practice, helping our farmers and communities thrive while preserving our environment for future generations.
The Rector of the University, Prof. Dr. Biljana Angelova, highlighted the importance of the UKIM Institute of Agriculture within the framework of the University, as an equal member of its structure:
This significant 80-year jubilee coincides with the University "Ss. Cyril and Methodius" in Skopje celebrating a notable milestone of 75 years of academic excellence. Seventy-five years guided by the ideals of top-tier science and high standards in higher education, as a university that continues to grow and evolve into a modern and open academic community. Together with its renowned units, UKIM represents the driving intellectual force behind leading processes in higher education and science.
The Institute of Agriculture in Skopje is one of the oldest
research organizations in agriculture in Macedonia. Since as far back as 1927, with the establishment of the Regional Nursery in Skopje and the Agro-botanical Section, the year marked the beginning of the future Institute of Agriculture in the country. However, its official founding took place after the liberation of Macedonia in 1944, as the oldest scientific institution of its kind in agriculture, named the Agricultural Research Institute.
Since 2009, the Institute of Agriculture has been part of UKIM as one of its prestigious organizational units. Over its long tradition of existence and activity, the Institute of agriculture has established itself as a leading scientific institution with a distinct identity. Throughout its eight decades of existence, a well-trained scientific staff has been developed in all fields of agricultural sciences, continuously following the latest advancements in modern agriculture."
In her speech, the President Prof. Dr. Gordana Siljanovska Davkova emphasized the importance of the UKIM Institute of Agriculture in contemporary times, addressing the challenges of the modern era:
Today, as we face challenges of global proportions – from climate change to demographic shifts – the work of the Institute of Agriculture becomes even more critical.
At a time when young people see less and less perspective in rural areas, and dependency on imported food increases, this Institute continues to be a driver of change and a pillar of hope. Every achievement it makes is proof that with knowledge, dedication, and vision, we can create a brighter future.
We must invest in science, young researchers, and modern technologies. Strengthen the capacity of the Institute and support its leadership in rural development, education, and sustainable production.
The field of the Institute of Agriculture is more than just land; it is a symbol of our collective journey and aspiration. And so, as the sun shines on the field, we know that every furrow is filled with history, every seed with hope, and every harvest with the future.
After the speeches, plaques and certificates of appreciation were awarded to domestic and foreign institutions collaborating with the Institute of Agriculture, celebrating their long-standing fruitful international partnerships.
The official program concluded with a short film highlighting the beginnings and development of the Institute of Agriculture throughout its 80-year history, from its humble beginnings immediately after Macedonia's liberation to its modern facilities that now include experimental fields, advanced machinery, and state-of-the-art accredited laboratories.
Special homage was paid to past and present employees who contributed with dedication and commitment, enabling the Institute to grow into a recognized scientific institution, respected both domestically and internationally.
The ceremony ended with a rich artistic program performed by students from the Faculty of Music at UKIM. Their impressive performance of traditional Macedonian songs added an emotional conclusion to this celebratory event.
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