Association for non-formal education European Cultural Epicenter Bitola (ECE Bitola)

Association for non-formal education European Cultural Epicenter Bitola (ECE Bitola) is non-governmental, non-political organization founded in September 2012 by enthusiasts with diverse qualifications who want to use their experience, knowledge and professional network. The main goal of the Association is to provide high quality non-formal educational programs for the citizens from Bitola, Macedonia, Europe and the world for: • Promotion of personal and professional development of the citizens of the Republic of Macedonia; • Enabling and promoting the mobility of citizens within and outside the borders of the Republic of Macedonia; • Commitment to sustainable development and increase of citizens' contribution to solving local and global problems; • Improving digital literacy, digital skills and digital transformation; • Promoting a healthy lifestyle through sports and sports activities; • Education and empowerment of vulnerable and marginalized groups; • Promotion of human rights, democracy, market economy, entrepreneurship, equality and solidarity. • Strengthening the role and capacities of organizations and institutions through mutual cooperation, support, needs and possible reforms. The aims of the association are to achieving through educative courses, seminars, exchanges, volunteering opportunities, local and international mobility. We are supporting local initiatives coming from the citizens and other associations in their development. We have close cooperation with kindergarten, primary schools, private companies, local authorities and other associations on local level for which we provide support and expertise regarding non-formal education and EU programs. Our office is situated in city centre of Bitola where we have space of 300 m2 where we implement our activities. ECE Bitola team is managing diverse courses and workshops (national and international), mentoring programs in the fields of entrepreneurship, rural development, empowerment, ICT competences, social movements and campaigns. Furthermore, our staff members have a variety of qualifications as trainers, project managers, trainers, mentors, events’ organizers, and with experience in team management, leadership, communication and public relations, ICT, organizational strategic planning, minorities, research and in the creation of international networks. At the moment we are four regular staff members and four to six volunteers depending from the number of activities. Additionally we are hiring experts and speakers on honorary basis. Below you can find our international experience and the project we had implemented with our partners.