[Chapter-delegates] Application to start an Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia: Peer-Review
Marcin Olender
marolender at gmail.com
Tue Jan 28 02:30:33 PST 2025
Hello,
Full and enthusiastic support from Poland too!
Best wishes,
Marcin
wt., 28 sty 2025 o 11:23 Raymond Mamattah via Chapter-delegates <
chapter-delegates at elists.isoc.org> napisał(a):
> Hi all,
>
> This is a great effort to have this chapter. Fully support it.
>
> Regards,
> Raymond Mamattah
> [image: linkedin] <https://www.linkedin.com/in/raymond-selorm-mamattah/> [image:
> facebook] <https://www.facebook.com/selorm.mamattah> [image: twitter]
> <https://twitter.com/RMamattah>
> Accra, Ghana
>
>
> On Mon, Jan 27, 2025 at 5:29 PM Nick Hyrka via Chapter-delegates <
> chapter-delegates at elists.isoc.org> wrote:
>
>> Dear Chapter Leaders,
>>
>>
>>
>> We recently received the *application** below** to start an Internet
>> Society Chapter in **North Macedonia*. I kindly invite you to *review it
>> and share your comments by **10** February 202**5*.
>>
>>
>>
>> If you know of active Internet Society members within North Macedonia interested
>> in joining this initiative, please let me know via hyrka at isoc.org. I
>> would happily connect them to the volunteers who submitted
>> this application.
>>
>>
>>
>> Your comments and input will help us make a final decision on this
>> application and move to the next steps.
>>
>>
>>
>> Thank you very much in advance for your feedback.
>>
>>
>>
>> Kind regards,
>>
>> Nick
>>
>>
>> ================================================
>>
>> A. Proposed name of the Chapter
>>
>> Internet Society - North Macedonia Chapter
>>
>> ================================================
>>
>> B. Community of Interest the Chapter Will Serve
>>
>> The Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia will serve a diverse and
>> inclusive community united by a shared interest in advancing the
>> development, accessibility, and responsible use of the Internet.
>> Recognizing the transformative power of the Internet in driving social,
>> economic, and cultural growth, the Chapter aims to engage and empower the
>> following key stakeholder groups:
>>
>>
>>
>> Government Institutions and Policymakers
>>
>> Collaborate with ministries, regulatory bodies, and local
>> government units to support the creation of effective Internet policies,
>> enhance digital infrastructure, and promote e-governance solutions.
>>
>> Provide platforms for dialogue and knowledge sharing to ensure
>> policies reflect the principles of openness, accessibility, and inclusivity.
>>
>>
>>
>> Academic and Research Institutions
>>
>> Work with universities, schools, and research organizations to
>> foster education and innovation in Internet-related fields such as
>> cybersecurity, Internet governance, and digital transformation.
>>
>> Encourage the integration of emerging technologies and digital
>> skills training into educational programs, equipping the next generation
>> with the tools needed to thrive in the digital age.
>>
>>
>>
>> Private Sector and Entrepreneurs
>>
>> Support businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs in leveraging the
>> Internet to drive innovation, create job opportunities, and expand into
>> global markets.
>>
>> Provide networking opportunities and resources to help local
>> enterprises adopt digital solutions and compete effectively.
>>
>>
>>
>> Civil Society Organizations
>>
>> Partner with NGOs, advocacy groups, and community organizations
>> to address the digital divide, promote Internet rights, and ensure
>> marginalized and vulnerable populations have equitable access to digital
>> resources.
>>
>> Empower grassroots organizations to use the Internet as a tool
>> for social change and community development.
>>
>>
>>
>> Youth and Students
>>
>> Engage with young people and students who are passionate about
>> technology and the Internet, offering mentorship, education, and
>> opportunities to participate in shaping Internet policies and practices.
>>
>> Provide platforms for youth leadership and innovation in the
>> digital space, amplifying their voices in national and international
>> dialogues.
>>
>>
>>
>> Rural and Underserved Communities
>>
>> Focus on expanding Internet access and digital literacy in rural
>> and underserved areas, where connectivity remains a challenge.
>>
>> Develop programs that address the unique needs of these
>> communities, enabling them to participate fully in the digital economy and
>> society.
>>
>>
>>
>> Technology Enthusiasts and Internet Advocates
>>
>> Serve individuals who are passionate about Internet-related
>> topics, providing a space for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and
>> advocacy.
>>
>> Encourage participation in global and regional Internet Society
>> initiatives, allowing members to contribute to shaping the future of the
>> Internet.
>>
>>
>>
>> General Public
>>
>> Promote awareness of Internet-related issues among the broader
>> population, encouraging responsible use of digital technologies.
>>
>> Facilitate access to resources, tools, and knowledge that empower
>> individuals to navigate the digital landscape confidently and safely.
>>
>>
>>
>> By engaging this diverse community of interest, the Chapter will ensure
>> that its initiatives reflect the needs and aspirations of North Macedonia’s
>> society. Through inclusivity, collaboration, and a commitment to the
>> Internet Society’s core principles, the Chapter will foster a thriving
>> digital ecosystem that benefits all citizens.
>>
>> ================================================
>>
>> C. Purpose and Scope of the Chapter
>>
>> The Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia aims to advance the
>> development, accessibility, and responsible use of the Internet within the
>> country. By fostering a collaborative environment among key
>> stakeholders—ranging from government institutions, academia, businesses,
>> and civil society to individual users—the Chapter seeks to promote an
>> inclusive, open, and secure Internet that benefits all citizens.
>>
>>
>>
>> This Chapter will serve as a platform to address the unique challenges
>> faced by North Macedonia in terms of digital transformation, Internet
>> penetration, and the digital divide. By bringing together individuals and
>> organizations passionate about Internet development, the Chapter will work
>> to:
>>
>>
>>
>> Build Capacity and Promote Education:
>>
>> Conduct workshops, seminars, and training sessions to improve
>> digital literacy and skills, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
>>
>> Collaborate with schools, universities, and training centers to
>> incorporate Internet governance and cybersecurity topics into curricula.
>>
>>
>>
>> Advocate for Inclusive Internet Policies:
>>
>> Engage with policymakers and regulators to ensure that laws and
>> policies support an open and accessible Internet.
>>
>> Advocate for affordable Internet access and infrastructure
>> development, especially in regions where connectivity is limited.
>>
>>
>>
>> Raise Awareness on Internet Rights and Responsibilities:
>>
>> Organize campaigns to educate citizens about their rights to
>> privacy, freedom of expression, and access to information online.
>>
>> Highlight the importance of ethical and responsible behavior in
>> the digital space, promoting safe online practices for individuals and
>> organizations.
>>
>>
>>
>> Drive Local Innovation:
>>
>> Support initiatives that foster the use of the Internet as a tool
>> for social and economic growth, including entrepreneurship and e-governance.
>>
>> Provide platforms for local innovators and startups to connect,
>> share, and scale their ideas.
>>
>>
>>
>> Promote Multistakeholder Engagement:
>>
>> Facilitate dialogue among diverse stakeholders, ensuring that all
>> voices are heard in shaping the future of the Internet in North Macedonia.
>>
>> Act as a bridge between global Internet Society initiatives and
>> local needs, enabling the exchange of best practices and resources.
>>
>>
>>
>> Establishing an Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia is vital for
>> addressing the local digital ecosystem’s unique needs. As part of the
>> broader Internet Society, this Chapter will leverage global expertise,
>> resources, and networks to amplify its impact. Through these efforts, the
>> Chapter seeks to create a robust, inclusive, and sustainable digital
>> environment that empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and drives
>> the country's progress in the digital age.
>>
>> ================================================
>>
>> D. Outline of Key Priorities for the First Year of the Chapter
>>
>>
>>
>> The first year of the Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia will
>> focus on laying a strong foundation for long-term success by addressing
>> critical gaps in digital skills and enhancing the development and
>> operational efficiency of ixp.mk. These priorities will align with the
>> Chapter’s mission to promote a more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable
>> Internet ecosystem in the country.
>>
>> 1. Capacity Building and Digital Skills Development
>>
>> Workshops and Training Programs:
>>
>> Organize targeted workshops on digital literacy, cybersecurity, and
>> network infrastructure management. Special focus will be given to training
>> individuals on topics related to Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), including
>> routing, traffic management, and network optimization.
>>
>>
>>
>> 2. Development and Expansion of ixp.mk
>>
>> Operational Optimization:
>>
>> Collaborate with technical experts and Internet Service Providers
>> (ISPs) to enhance the operational efficiency of ixp.mk. This will
>> include upgrading infrastructure, improving redundancy, and implementing
>> best practices for scalability and performance.
>>
>> Stakeholder Engagement:
>>
>> Host regular meetings and forums with ISPs, content providers, and
>> other stakeholders to raise awareness about the benefits of ixp.mk.
>> Highlight its role in reducing latency, lowering costs, and fostering local
>> Internet traffic exchange.
>>
>> Technical Documentation and Knowledge Sharing:
>>
>> Develop comprehensive guides and documentation on managing and
>> expanding ixp.mk. Organize knowledge-sharing sessions to build local
>> expertise and ensure the sustainability of the IXP.
>>
>> Regional Collaboration:
>>
>> Explore opportunities for ixp.mk to collaborate with neighboring
>> countries’ IXPs, promoting cross-border Internet traffic exchange and
>> strengthening regional connectivity.
>>
>>
>>
>> 3. Awareness Campaigns and Community Outreach
>>
>>
>>
>> Public Awareness Campaigns:
>>
>> Conduct campaigns to educate the general public on the importance of
>> digital skills and infrastructure like ixp.mk. Use social media, local
>> events, and partnerships with media outlets to amplify the message.
>>
>> Engagement with Civil Society Organizations:
>>
>> Partner with NGOs and advocacy groups to promote the ethical and
>> responsible use of the Internet while highlighting the societal benefits of
>> robust Internet infrastructure.
>>
>>
>>
>> 4. Policy Advocacy and Stakeholder Collaboration
>>
>>
>>
>> Policy Development for Internet Growth:
>>
>> Engage with government institutions and policymakers to advocate for
>> laws and regulations that support the growth of ixp.mk and digital
>> skills development. This includes pushing for initiatives that fund and
>> prioritize Internet infrastructure expansion.
>>
>> Private Sector Partnerships:
>>
>> Collaborate with businesses and tech companies to support training
>> initiatives, sponsor events, and invest in the growth of ixp.mk.
>>
>> International Representation:
>>
>> Represent North Macedonia in international forums to attract
>> technical expertise, funding, and support for both skills development and
>> the enhancement of ixp.mk.
>>
>>
>>
>> 5. Local Innovation and Content Development
>>
>>
>>
>> Support for Local Content Providers:
>>
>> Encourage the use of ixp.mk by local content providers to improve
>> accessibility and speed for North Macedonian users. Offer incentives or
>> technical support to onboard more providers onto the platform.
>>
>>
>>
>> 6. Monitoring and Evaluation
>>
>>
>>
>> Baseline Assessments:
>>
>> Conduct an initial assessment of digital skills levels and the
>> current state of ixp.mk. Use this data to set measurable goals and track
>> progress over the first year.
>>
>> Performance Metrics for ixp.mk:
>>
>> Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for ixp.mk, such as
>> traffic volume, latency improvements, and new stakeholder participation.
>> Use these metrics to identify areas for improvement and growth.
>>
>> Community Feedback:
>>
>> Establish channels for community feedback on Chapter activities,
>> including skill development programs and the performance of ixp.mk. Use
>> this input to refine and adapt strategies.
>>
>>
>>
>> By focusing on these priorities, the Internet Society Chapter in North
>> Macedonia will make significant strides in empowering its community with
>> the skills needed to thrive in the digital age while establishing ixp.mk
>> as a vital component of the country’s Internet infrastructure. This
>> strategic foundation will ensure sustainable growth, inclusivity, and
>> resilience in North Macedonia’s digital ecosystem.
>>
>> ================================================
>>
>> E. Founding members of the Chapter
>>
>> Vladislav Bidikov, FCSE/FINKI, IXP.mk, FINKI CIRT
>>
>> Boro Jakimovski, Dean FCSE/FINKI
>>
>> Anastas Mishev, Professor FCSE/FINKI, IEEE MKD, IGF-MKD, MARNET
>>
>> Kiril Kjiroski, Head of Computer Center FCSE/FINKI
>>
>> Stefan Marincevski, Computer Center FCSE/FINKI
>>
>> Aleksandar Stefanovski, Student
>>
>> Martin Ristoski, Student
>>
>> Martin Dinev, Teaching assistant FCSE/FINKI
>>
>> Marko Paloski, IGF-MKD
>>
>> Predrag Tasevski, Independet Researcher
>>
>> Jovan Bidikov, Game Industry
>>
>> Zhivko Kocev, Student
>>
>> Dragan Rizov, Student
>>
>> Jovan Kamchev, Student
>>
>> Voydan Kjorveziroski, Teaching assistant FCSE/FINKI
>>
>> Sonja Filiposka, Professor FCSE/FINKI, ACM, FINKI CIRT
>>
>> Petar Hristovski, Student
>>
>> Ivan Zanov, Student
>>
>> Andrea Trifunova, IT Industry
>>
>> Kristina Cokovska, Student
>>
>> Dario Stojanov, IT Industry
>>
>> Ani Trpovska, IT Industry
>>
>> Panche Ribarski, Professor FCSE/FINKI
>>
>> Ilija Marincevski, Student
>>
>> Anđela Jankoska, Lawyer, IGF-MKD
>>
>> ================================================
>>
>> G. Membership
>>
>>
>>
>> The Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia recognizes that an
>> engaged and active membership base is the backbone of its success. A
>> diverse and dynamic membership not only ensures a steady flow of ideas,
>> energy, and talent but also builds a strong foundation for sustainable
>> leadership and innovation. The Chapter will employ a multifaceted approach
>> to communicate, engage, and interact with its members, creating an
>> inclusive and collaborative environment.
>>
>>
>>
>> 1. Membership Recruitment
>>
>> Awareness Campaigns:
>>
>> Conduct targeted outreach through social media, local events, and
>> partnerships with universities, tech hubs, and community organizations to
>> attract new members.
>>
>> Value Proposition:
>>
>> Highlight the benefits of membership, including access to training,
>> networking opportunities, participation in global Internet Society
>> initiatives, and contributing to the development of the Internet in North
>> Macedonia.
>>
>> Inclusive Membership Policies:
>>
>> Ensure that membership is open and accessible to individuals from all
>> demographics, including youth, underserved communities, and professionals
>> from various sectors.
>>
>>
>>
>> 2. Communication Channels
>>
>>
>>
>> Email Newsletters:
>>
>> Send regular newsletters to keep members informed about Chapter
>> activities, upcoming events, opportunities, and achievements.
>>
>> Social Media Platforms:
>>
>> Utilize platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram
>> to engage members in real-time, share updates, and encourage interaction.
>>
>> Website and Member Portal:
>>
>> Maintain a dedicated website with a member portal that provides
>> resources, event registration, and discussion forums.
>>
>> Community Groups:
>>
>> Create online and offline groups (e.g., Slack, WhatsApp, or Discord)
>> to facilitate open communication among members and foster collaboration.
>>
>>
>>
>> 3. Engagement Activities
>>
>>
>>
>> Workshops and Training Sessions:
>>
>> Organize regular skill-building activities such as workshops on
>> Internet governance, cybersecurity, and technical topics related to the
>> development and maintenance of critical infrastructure like ixp.mk.
>>
>> Networking Events:
>>
>> Host meetups, conferences, and networking sessions to connect
>> members, share experiences, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
>>
>> Volunteer Opportunities:
>>
>> Encourage members to volunteer for Chapter projects, providing them
>> with leadership experience and a chance to contribute actively.
>>
>>
>>
>> 4. Recognizing and Retaining Members
>>
>>
>>
>> Member Recognition Programs:
>>
>> Acknowledge the contributions of active members through awards,
>> certificates, or public appreciation during events.
>>
>> Mentorship and Leadership Development:
>>
>> Offer mentorship programs to support members' professional growth and
>> prepare them for future leadership roles within the Chapter.
>>
>>
>>
>> 5. Expanding Membership Base
>>
>>
>>
>> Youth Engagement:
>>
>> Actively involve students and young professionals by collaborating
>> with schools, universities, and youth organizations. Offer tailored
>> programs such as internships, hackathons, and innovation challenges.
>>
>> Regional Outreach:
>>
>> Expand membership to include individuals and organizations from rural
>> and underserved areas by addressing connectivity challenges and offering
>> localized engagement opportunities.
>>
>> Industry Partnerships:
>>
>> Collaborate with ISPs, tech companies, and other industry players to
>> bring professionals and organizations into the Chapter as members or
>> partners.
>>
>>
>>
>> 6. Feedback and Continuous Improvement
>>
>>
>>
>> Surveys and Feedback Mechanisms:
>>
>> Regularly seek input from members through surveys, focus groups, and
>> one-on-one conversations to understand their needs and expectations.
>>
>> Member-Led Initiatives:
>>
>> Encourage members to propose and lead initiatives that align with the
>> Chapter’s goals, fostering a sense of ownership and active participation.
>>
>>
>>
>> By creating a vibrant and interactive membership ecosystem, the Internet
>> Society Chapter in North Macedonia will ensure that it remains a dynamic
>> and forward-looking organization. This approach will help attract and
>> retain a diverse pool of individuals and organizations, enabling the
>> Chapter to adapt to the evolving needs of its members and the broader
>> community.
>>
>> ================================================
>>
>> H. List of requirements
>>
>> None.
>>
>> ================================================
>>
>> I. Additional information
>>
>> As all founding memebers are well recognized in the local community and
>> beyond and powered by the student component, I strongly belive that the
>> time for making the Chapter success is now. The students already have
>> several projects as ideas in 2025 so i belive where are needed to fully
>> enable this young talent.
>>
>> ================================================
>>
>> J. Your contact information
>>
>> Vladislav Bidikov
>>
>> Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering
>>
>>
>>
>> ================================================
>>
>> --
>>
>> Nick Hyrka, Regional Community Engagement Manager, Europe
>> hyrka at isoc.org
>> [image: signature_3725484352]
>>
>> Give a gift of opportunity. *Donate today. <https://bit.ly/3nUsQmJ>*
>>
>> Support strong encryption - Join the Global Encryption Coalition
>> <https://www.globalencryption.org/join/>
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> As a Chapter Leader, you are automatically added to the Internet
>> Society’s Chapter Leaders Community Group and the Chapter Delegates e-list,
>> which is regularly synchronized with the Internet Society Chapter Portal
>> (AMS): https://community.internetsociety.org.
>>
>> Based on ISOC’s legitimate interests to communicate with its chapter
>> leaders, you will remain subscribed for the duration of your term and will
>> be unsubscribed automatically when your term ends.
>>
>> View the Internet Society Code of Conduct:
>> https://www.internetsociety.org/become-a-member/code-of-conduct/
>>
> _______________________________________________
> As a Chapter Leader, you are automatically added to the Internet Society’s
> Chapter Leaders Community Group and the Chapter Delegates e-list, which is
> regularly synchronized with the Internet Society Chapter Portal (AMS):
> https://community.internetsociety.org.
>
> Based on ISOC’s legitimate interests to communicate with its chapter
> leaders, you will remain subscribed for the duration of your term and will
> be unsubscribed automatically when your term ends.
>
> View the Internet Society Code of Conduct:
> https://www.internetsociety.org/become-a-member/code-of-conduct/
>
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