A governmental delegation, led by SDS leader Zoran Zaev visited Friday the Macedonian Academy of Science and Art (MANU) to be briefed by its chairman Taki Fiti on the activities of this institution, which marks its 50th anniversary this year. That’s right, the institution that many in Macedonia don’t know it exists will turn 50 this year.
Fiti conveyed MANU’s readiness to cooperate with the Government on vital matters in the spheres of science and art, as well as grant expert support for the country’s bid to join the European Union, NATO and its overall development, MANU said in a press release.
Zaev on his part conveyed his expectations for MANU to take part in all processes for improving Macedonia’s perspectives, especially in the spheres of education, science, economy, environment and other significant aspects of the country’s future development.
VMRO-DPMNE through Zoran Ilioski has called on MANU as the country’s highest ranked scientific, cultural and arts institution to strongly defend Macedonia’s state and national interests. MANU has thus far ignored VMRO-DPMNE’s call, but also Zaev’s visit to Sofia and his promise to change history books in order to appease the Bulgarian Government.
Many intellectuals in Macedonia have called for the abolishment of MANU and its replacement with a true Scientific organization. Over the past 50 years, MANU has nothing to show for, no scientific or any kind of research behind its name. Academics are admitted in highly dubious and political fashion, the majority have close ties to the former communist regime, today’s SDS and often hold anti-Macedonian views. The average age at MANU is 72!
University professors refer to MANU as Macedonia’s most lucrative retirement home.
