KSV/020
Support to Vocational Education and Training (VET) Reform in Kosovo

Latest news

• KOSOVO - Luxembourg University delegation visits KosovoUni.Lu delegation explores scientific cooperation with universities in Kosovo

  Published on 19 March 2023    By Behlul SHALJANI   

  On March 6 - 7 2023, a delegation from the University of Luxembourg, SnT – Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust, visited Kosovo to hold open discussions with Kosovar universities, professors and students. The goal was to identify opportunities for scientific cooperation between SnT and universities in Kosovo.

  

  Prof. Dr. Marcus Völp lecturing to the students of Computer Science and Engineering in University of Pristina

  During their visit, the delegation consisting of the Head of Technology Transfer Office, Dr. Carlo Duprel, and Head of Critical and Extreme Security and Dependability Research Group, Prof. Dr. Marcus Völp, met with various institutions, including Mr. Eric Dietz, the Chargé d'Affaires of Luxembourg in Kosovo, Lulëzon Jagxhiu, Advisor to the Prime Minister for Information Technology, Qamile Sinanaj, Head of International Cooperation Division in Higher Education and Science at the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, and Shpend Lutfiu, KOS-CERT, the National Unit for Cyber Security. They also met with the heads of the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Pristina, University AAB and University UBT.​​​​​​​

  

  Students of AAB University in the lecture by Prof. Dr. Marcus Völp

  The results of these discussions are still pending, but it is hoped that both countries can contribute to scientific progress and technological innovation through these collaborations. This visit was part of development cooperation between Luxembourg and Kosovo.

  The KSV/020 - Support to Vocational Education and Training Reform in Kosovo project is co-funded by the Government of Kosovo and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Kosovo Ministry of Education and Science and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.

   

• KOSOVO - Workshop with the Department of Vocational Education and Training (VET) of the Ministry regarding an operational manual

  Published on 24 November 2022    By Behlul SHALJANI   

  Focusing on the improvement of the legal and regulatory environment and provision of capacity development at the national level, the project KSV/020 - Support to Vocational Education and Training (VET) Reform in Kosovo has delegated the implementation of specific activities according to the operational partnership agreement to a local partner, EdGuard Institute, which is a reputable NGO operating in the education sector.

  Hence, the EdGuard Institute organised a two-day workshop to develop an operational manual for the VET Department of the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI). The CTA of the project KSV/020, Daniele Passalacqua, and the national expert, Hajdin Berisha, have also been invited to provide valuable contributions to the development of the deliverables.

  

  The Minister of the MESTI, Mrs Arbërie Nagavci, together with participants from the VET Department of the MESTI, from the project KSV/020 and the EdGuard Institute.

  The main objective of this workshop was to progress with the development of the operational manual according to the new organogram of the MESTI. This activity aimed to develop sustainable operational policies that will increase the efficiency of VET Department's work. The MESTI is indeed in the process of restructuring itself and developing the new organogram. Each department is therefore required to develop its own operational manual. The VET Department is among the first departments to develop such a manual. It is foreseen to provide guidance to the VET Department staff in order for them to efficiently carry out their tasks according to the new roles and responsibilities from the updated MESTI organogram.

  

  The Minister of the MESTI, Mrs Arbërie Nagavci addressing the participants on the importance of the new organogram of the MESTI and the manual for the VET Department 

  The KSV/020 project is co-funded by the Government of Kosovo and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Kosovo Ministry of Education and Science and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.  

   

• KOSOVO - First steps towards the implementation of a dual VET system

  Published on 10 November 2022    By Renea BULA   

  Creating relationships between schools and the various actors of the communities in which they operate in is essential in enhancing student learning. These partnerships provide varied benefits which increase school capacities and make the overall educational experiences more interactive for students. In June 2021, the project KSV/020 formalised five Memorandum of Understandings (MoU) between the Meister Training Centrer and five vocational education and training (VET) institutions from the municipalities of Prizren, Vushtrri, Ferizaj, Suhareka and Gjilan - an initiative that will lead to the transformation of the VET system to a dual one, one of the firsts in Kosovo.

  

  The goal of these partnerships is to establish cooperation between companies and the VET institutions to advance the practical learning skills of students by offering them professional practice within a company. The partnership will facilitate the proper implementation of the qualification set for the profile of “electronic technician” developed in cooperation with European partners from the private sector. The parties involved will have different responsibilities which include the transfer of skills between the teachers and school staff towards professional development activities, co-organisation of symposiums, conferences and short courses, proposals on adjusting the occupational standard, curricula and teaching and learning materials to match the latest industry trends and practices.

  

  In general, the public VET schools in Kosovo face obstacles in the implementation of the theoretical, and especially the practical part of the profile. In schools, this challenge arises from lack of equipment and lack of expertise in using and maintaining the needed equipment. Therefore, an important component of this partnership is that students will have access to the equipment located within the company’s premises, which will facilitate students’ professional practice. Ultimately, this will allow students to conduct their practice in the presence of industry professionals and acquire the necessary skills in the workplace. As a result of such an initiative, more schools and companies will follow the same path towards the dual VET system in Kosovo. 

  Following the arrival of the equipment for the “electronic technician” profile at the premises of the company, the professional practice of students was conducted during April and May 2022. Herein, the project representatives visited the company on the day that the students of “Pjetër Bogdani” technical school in Ferizaj were doing their practice. The teachers and students expressed their gratitude and excitement about this partnership as they will have the chance to practice their skills with real equipment in a real working environment.

  

  

  Fundamentally, public-private partnerships are of immense importance as they optimise the vocational education and training offer while incorporating the world of work into education. As a result, they lead to work experience opportunities that improve the prospects of young students when seeking employment.

  The KSV/020 project is co-funded by the Government of Kosovo and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Kosovo Ministry of Education and Science and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.  

• KOSOVO - Project KSV/020 supported technical school “Skender Luarasi” wins the first place of the creative challenge

  Published on 9 August 2022    By Renea BULA   

  “The environment, nature and everything living around us is the greatest wealth we have inherited… unfortunately we are abusing and destroying it, in turn disrupting the biological balances thus jeopardising our future on this planet.”

  This is a statement from the students of the “Skender Luarasi” technical school who were awarded with the first place of the creative challenge 2021 from the BONEVET institution. The creative challenge was launched in 2019 and is a competition designed for 10^th and 11^th grade high schools with the main goal of using technological devices. Students design and prototype solutions to everyday problems by combining various innovative and technological means. Teams go through three rounds and are evaluated at each round before arriving to the final product.

  “Skender Luarasi” managed to win the first place of the challenge among 36 national schools competing. The institution is one of the main VET schools supported by project KSV/020. The project provided support to the school through capacity development activities, purchasing of equipment to accommodate the new IT profiles developed by the project. The school also implemented the technical profiles updated by the project and will be receiving equipment to facilitate the practical learning part for these profiles.

  This year’s challenge was entitled “Frymo” meaning “Breath” and aimed the construction of stations measuring air quality through the use technological equipment such as the Arduino Kit and the Sensor Kit which explore the vast space of electronics and programming. The competition was organised in three rounds giving students the opportunity to learn how projects are done as well as the importance of teamwork as the students were evaluated as a group. As simple as it seems, this indeed was a challenge in itself as the students had to step into the role of engineers to find solutions whilst simultaneously managing the overall flow of work.

  Fundamentally, the challenge stimulated creative thinking as the students were designing a whole new product which at the end had to be functional as well. Throughout the rounds creative thinking was practiced, solutions to electronic and technical problems were found and the students learned to use the latest programmes in designing three-dimensional objects.

  The KSV/020 project is co-funded by the Government of Kosovo and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Kosovo Ministry of Education and Science and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.  

  
  

• KOSOVO - The project, Support to vocational education and training reform in Kosovo, KSV/020 at the KosICT tech festival

  Published on 22 December 2021    By Renea Bula   

  This October, the KosICT tech festival held its 10th edition to bridge the gap between the local and international markets for Information and Communications Technology (ICT). The festival brings together local, regional and international experts to share their experiences and knowledge with the audience comprised of software developers, ICT enthusiasts and experts, C-level executives, academia representatives and students. Certainly, the ICT sector in Kosovo is in rapid development, and the festival aims to respond to this development by bringing together all the stakeholders in the industry and foster a unified collaboration between them.

  With the presence of project KSV/020 in the ICT sector, its participation was deemed essential for demonstrating the commitment of vocational education and training to adapting to the changing labor market, especially regarding information technology. The Project supported the organisation of the Job Fair whereby six of the supported schools participated and presented their value proposition along with the ICT profiles that they are offering. The management of the school, teachers and students had the chance to attend the event and interact with company representatives for future collaboration opportunities.

  A number of the project KSV/020’s interventions were presented to the public during the event, starting with the development of five qualification sets in the ICT sector and their implementation in six vocational schools.

  This project showcased the business model concept as one of the main tools for fostering collaboration between vocational education and training schools and the private sector. Career guidance information system – Busulla.com boasts over 300,000 users and is the leading online platform for the provision of career guidance. Certainly, the achievements and interventions in the ICT sector will continue through Project KSV/801 with the development of cloud based testing system, as well as a tracer study information system, all whilst partnering with local, regional and international experts.  

  These achievements did not go unnoticed, as the Project KSV/020 was honored during the event. This award pays tribute to the Luxembourg Cooperation projects whose long-term efforts, dedication and sustained commitment have supported the vocational education and training sector. The project was awarded for the commendable achievements and significant contributions in the national reform of the national technical and vocational education and training system and in the development of the ICT and digital sector in Kosovo.

  At the event, it was stated that:

  “This award represents the successful work done by all LuxDev Projects in the technical and vocational education and training  sector and serves as a catalyst for foster further reforms and changes in the sector with a focus on ICT. It also reflects the synergy between the LuxDev team, the relevant institutions, and the private sector, which has contributed to enhancing the teaching and learning experience in the vocational education and training sector in Kosovo for more than ten years.”

  With the award, other stakeholders in the sector to use similar innovative approaches to working in partnership with businesses and public sector organisations to enhance student employability and increase workforce skills.

  The KSV/020 project is co-funded by the Government of Kosovo and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Kosovo Ministry of Education and Science and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.  

  

   

   

   

• KOSOVO - Enhancing the cooperation between vocational education and training institutions and the private sector

  Published on 30 September 2021    By Daniele Passalacqua and Renea Bula   

  Creating relationships between schools and the various actors of the communities in which they operate in is essential in enhancing student learning. These partnerships provide varied benefits which increase school capacities and make the overall educational experiences more interactive for students. In June 2021, the Support to vocational education and training reform in Kosovo project, KSV/020, formalised five memoranda of understandings between Meister training tenter and five vocational education and training institutions from the municipalities of Prizren, Vushtrri, Ferizaj, Suahreka and Gjilan - an initiative that will lead to the transformation of the vocational education and training system to a dual one, one of the firsts in Kosovo.

  The goal of these partnerships is to establish cooperation between the company and the vocational education and training institutions to advance the practical learning skills of students by offering them professional practice within the company. The partnership will facilitate the proper implementation of the qualification set for the profile of “electronic technician” developed in cooperation with European international partners from the private sector. The parties involved will have different responsibilities which include the transfer of skills between the teachers and school staff towards professional development activities, co-organisation of symposiums, conferences and short courses, proposals on adjusting the occupational standard, curricula and teaching and learning materials to match the latest industry trends and practices.

  

  In general, the public vocational education and training schools in Kosovo face obstacles in the implementation of the theoretical, and especially the practical part of the profile. This challenge arises due the lack of equipment within schools and lack of expertise in using and maintaining the needed machineries.  Therefore, an important component of this partnership is that students will use the equipment located within the company’s premises which will facilitate students’ professional practice. Ultimately, this will allow students to conduct their practice in the presence of industry professionals and acquire the necessary skills in the workplace.

  To commemorate such an important milestone, an event formalising the signing of the memoranda of understandings was organised. Part of this event were representatives from the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Agency for vocational education and training and adult education, the Project, Meister training centre as well as representatives from the municipalities and vocational education and training school directors. The attendees praised the initiative and pointed out the relevance of engaging with businesses to enhance and enrich the delivery of education. They firmly believed that more companies and schools will follow through the same path, especially once the benefits of such partnerships start becoming tangible.

  All in all, these public-private partnerships are of immense importance as they optimise the vocational education and training offer whilst building the world of work into education. Furthermore, they lead to work experience opportunities that improve the prospects of young students when seeking employment.

  The KSV/020 project is co-funded by the Government of Kosovo and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Kosovo Ministry of Education and Science and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.  

• KOSOVO - Development and implementation of qualification sets for technical profiles

  Published on 30 September 2021    By Daniele Passalacqua and Renea Bula   

  One of the main goals of the Support to vocational education and training reform in Kosovo project, KSV/020, is to improve the vocational education and training quality through the development of qualifications sets corresponding to the latest trends in the labour market. With the support of the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, the project has developed qualifications sets for four technical profiles:

  • the occupational standards, curricula;
  • teaching and learning material; 
  • didactic guidelines, and supporting material for teachers.  

  

  The selection of these profiles was based on labour market analysis and the identification of priority occupations which the project did in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation.

  In the curricula development process, experts from the industry and private sector made sure to create a model of integrated curricula (theoretical and practical).

  Furthermore, the teaching and learning material , the guidelines and the supporting material are the first of their kind to be developed for these profiles.

  The teaching and learning material encompasses extensive information, both descriptive and visual, reforming teaching and learning methods, and ultimately optimising the vocational education and training offer. 

  On August 31, 2021, the chief technical advisor of the KSV/020 project met with the representatives of the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation and vocational education and training school directors to officially hand over the qualification sets for four technical profiles.

  All participants praised this initiative. Herein, the vocational education and training school directors expressed their appreciation for the support the KSV/020 project has provided to them in developing new qualification sets based on the contemporary advances to meet new labour market demand.

  The representative of the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation  also praised the continuous support that the project has provided to the Ministry during these years, especially in reforming the vocational education and training quality.

  All this work would not have been possible without the contribution of all the relevant stakeholders; therefore, the chief technical advisor of the KSV/020 project expressed his appreciation to the MESTI and the schools for their close cooperation throughout this process. He further stated that:

  “Even though we are submitting qualification sets for four profiles, the support of the project will continue through tailor-made capacity development activities for teachers and training with international and local experts. All of this will be finalized with the provision of laboratory equipment to vocational education and training schools as part of the overall plan to improve the  quality”.

  Finally, as a result of this teamwork, the developed qualification sets for the technical profiles will be available for all vocational education and training schools nationwide starting from the new academic year 2021/2022.

  The KSV/020 project is co-funded by the Government of Kosovo and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Kosovo Ministry of Education and Science and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.  

• KOSOVO - Allocation of scholarships to allow access of young women in technical profiles

  Published on 5 July 2021    By Renea Bula   

  As young women continue to get underrepresented in most technical profiles, allocating scholarships to promote enrolment in such profiles is a powerful incentive to encourage female participation in science and technology. In addition to this, there are certain profiles in Vocational Education and Training Institutions (IVET) which have continuously low enrolment by both young women and men, despite their relevance with the demand of the labour market.

  Therefore, the project KSV/020 and MESTI have established a merit-based scholarships programme for students enrolling in VET schools. This initiative came after the Administrative Instruction on the Creation of an Incentive Structure to Support Students’ Education in Deficitary Profiles and for Women in Technical Profiles in IVET was enforced. The purpose of this AI, developed by the MESTI with the support of the Project, is to encourage students to enrol in IVET in deficit directions and young women in technical directions.

  

  Herein, the MESTI will provide scholarships in the agricultural sector, and on the other hand, the Project will award scholarships for technical profiles. Therefore, the project will support the provision of 50 new scholarships of which 30 will be allocated to students in deficitary profiles and 20 to young women in technical profiles.

  KSV/020 strongly believes that these scholarships will incentivise more young women to apply in technical profiles and both men and women to enrol in profiles that are currently facing challenges in enrolling students. Whereas, in the long-term, it is expected that the youth in Kosovo will be aware on the importance of enrolling in such profiles from a professional perspective.

  The KSV/020 project is co-funded by the Government of Kosovo and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Kosovo Ministry of Education and Science and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency

• A step forward towards inclusiveness: The successful graduation of the third cohort of Assistants to Children/Students with Special Education Needs

  Published on 16 April 2021    By Daniele Passalacqua and Renea Bula   

  Ensuring equal treatment and offering an inclusive Vocational Education and Training  (VET) offer. In 2017 the predecessor of the project Support to Vocational Education and Training (VET) Reform in Kosovo, KSV/020, namely Support to Vocational Education and Training Reform in Kosovo: Establishment of Centres of Competence in Ferizaj and PrizrenProject, KSV/015, supported the Ministry of Education and Science (MES) in the development of Level 5 Qualifications for assistants to children/students with special education needs (SEN). The occupational standards were developed by local experts, while the development of the curriculum, the teaching and learning material, and the training of teachers was conducted by the Project in the framework of a public Private Partnership with an internationally renowned company, Pearson, which implements Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC) qualifications recognised in more than 70 countries around the world. The implementation of the qualification has been continuously monitored by a group consisting of the representatives of the Project KSV/020, the Ministry of Education and Science (MES), the Center of Competencies in Ferizaj and the Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education (AVETAE).

  As of February 2021, the third generation of students has graduated this qualification making this initiative a success story that serves as motivation to develop other qualifications that lead to specializations and that are needed in the labour market. The qualification is being offered in four VET providing institutions in Pristina, Peja, Prizren and Ferizaj, and until now a total of 217 students have graduated. The support of the Project along with the will and determination of stakeholders have made this initiative a sustainable one which continues to have a huge impact in strengthening the services for the inclusion of students with special needs in public schools.   

  

  Taking into consideration that Level 5 qualifications represent a novelty for the labour market, the MES organized a ceremony to award diplomas to the third generation of students. During the ceremony, the graduates expressed their joy in completing this qualification and their readiness in going into the labour market. The graduation of the third generation of students is only a mere example of the magic and sustainability of this initiative. The success of this initiative can be seen through employment figures, as until now 85 of the graduates have been hired by public schools through an official decision of the government while 35 have been hired by UNICEF. Furthermore, according to non-official data, some of the graduates are independently employed by families needing assistance in taking care of children with special needs.

  

  The Project is looking forward to welcome more generations in this program who seek to become positive actors in the field of special education. Such an accomplishment encourages stakeholders to continue supporting professional qualifications that improve the quality of life of special needs children/students and that in return contribute to the development of Kosovo’s society.

  
  
  Both KSV/015 and KSV/020 projects are financed by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by LuxDev, the Luxembourg Agency for Development Cooperation. 

• KOSOVO - Provision of 20 computer labs in selected VET schools

  Published on 30 December 2020    By Renea Bula   

  The Support to Vocational Education and Training Reform in Kosovo Project, KSV/020, supported the provision of 20 computer labs in six selected VET schools. Such an initiative corresponds to the already developed curricula and the Teaching and Learning Materials (TLM) and will facilitate the smooth implementation of the supported ICT profiles.

  With this regard, an event was organized and held by the technical school “Mehmet Isai” in Gjilan, in promoting the three new ICT workshops. The event was covered by a local news channel whereby the mayor of Gjilan along with representatives from the Municipal Education Directorate were present among the representatives of Project KSV/020. Herewith, the mayor expressed his gratitude to the Project and pointed out that such a contribution will most definitely optimize the VET offer of the school in the next academic years followed by supporting reforms.

  As a next step, the Project will proceed towards the equipment of other workshops in different VET schools. It will try to do so with the cooperation of the private sector through the establishment of the Industrial Bodies and Industrial Advisory Boards as part of the Business Model concept.

  
  

  

  The KSV/020 project is co-funded by the Government of Kosovo and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Kosovo Ministry of Education and Science and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency

• KOSOVO - Development of Training Need Analysis related to 12 VET profiles

  Published on 30 December 2020    By Renea Bula   

  The Support to Vocational Education and Training (VET) Reform in Kosovo Project, KSV/020, undertook the development of Training Need Analysis (TNA) related to 12 VET profiles in six sectors, including ICT, Visual and Communication, Electronics, Manufacturing, Construction and Tourism. The analyses serve to evaluate the skills offer and the market demand, to identify improvement opportunities and the most promising positions in different sectors in Kosovo in the next few years.

  The TNAs have been presented by the Ministry of Education and Science and, with the support of both Project KSV/020 and KSV/801, they are being reviewed in collaboration with numerous VET stakeholders, through a series of technical workshops. The aim of these workshops is to identify and propose to the policy makers the next steps that need to be taken on a national level to optimize and align the VET offer with the labor market demand. Furthermore, they seek to strengthen the role of the private sector in VET and foster its collaboration with VET schools.

  Herewith, the first two workshop on the Manufacturing sector focusing on the Welder profile, and the Electronic sector focusing on the Electrician profile have already been held with participants stemming from public institutions, VET schools, civil society and the private sector being part of it.  

  
  

  The KSV/020 project is co-funded by the Government of Kosovo and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Kosovo Ministry of Education and Science and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.

   

• KOSOVO – Development and implementation of 13 different profile qualifications

  Published on 16 October 2020    By Renea Bula   

   

  Project KSV/020 developed the qualification sets for 13 different profiles identified as a priority in the manufacturing, construction, health and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sectors. The Ministry of Education and Science (MES) devised a strategic plan for the start of the new academic year and, with the support of the Project, achieved to start the implementation of 10 of the 13 profiles in selected Vocational Education and Training (VET) schools.

  The process of creating qualification sets includes the development of occupational standards, the respective and aligned core curricula and lastly, the teaching and learning materials (TLM). The Project managed to effectively coordinate the virtual working sessions, ensuring that the qualification sets match international standards.

  

  Qualification Sets Development

  The profiles, in the sector of manufacturing and construction are:

  • metalworker; 
  • electrical installer; 
  • water, sewage & heating and air conditioning installer; and
  • building insulation technician.

  The profiles in the sector of health are:

  • professional nurse; 
  • professional midwife; 
  • medical laboratory technician; and
  • dental assistant.

  The profiles in the sector of ICT are:

  • graphic design,
  • IT system technician;
  • IT business support technician; 
  • interactive media designer; and
  • application developer.

  The Project followed a methodology that built on the one that was used for the establishment of the two Centres of Competence (CoC) in Ferizaj and Prizren, increasing peer reviewing and cooperation with the private sector at local and international level.

  The manufacturing, construction, and health profile qualifications are to be implemented at a national level, following a Ministerial decision. Looking at the 5 ICT profiles, two profiles (IT System Technician and IT Business Support Technician) are being implemented in seven of the Project’s supported schools, while the others will be introduced in the following years.

  These achievements have been very motivating for the project team. The good collaboration with the different beneficiaries and stakeholders are what has made these achievements possible.

   

  The "Support to Vocational Education and Training (VET) Reform in Kosovo" programme, KSV/020, is funded by the Luxembourg Cooperation and implemented by LuxDev.​

• KOSOVO - Implementation of a new cost estimation and financial management system for VET schools

  Published on 2 July 2020    By Nita Shala   

  One of the main challenges in the education sector in Kosovo is building a sustainable system for the promotion of adult education and lifelong learning, as well as the provision of funding. The project, Support to Vocational Education and Training (VET) Reform in KosovoProject, KSV/020, as a continuation of the project, Support to Vocational Education and Training Reform in Kosovo: Establishment of Centres of Competence in Ferizaj and Prizren, KSV/015, continued to support the Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education (AVETAE) and the Municipal Education Departments (MED) to improve the process of financial planning for VET schools, especially for establishing a financing formula by profile. As of the end of 2019, a professionsal accounting software was set up to help improve VET schools financial planning and follow-up of budget procedures. The software was implemented in 10 VET schools including two CoCs in Prizren and Ferizaj.  Unfortunately, VET Schools have no autonomy in managing their finances, which is done through the ministry’s management system of public finances. This created challenges for schools in terms of handling their expenditures and keeping track of financial reports. The solution consisted in the introduction of the aforementioned accounting software. Project KSV/020 provided technical assistance to the CoCs and VET schools’ management to facilitate its use.

  
  Certification of the VET school representatives on the use of the new cost estimation and financial management software

  The software, even though quite complex, was modified to the needs of each school and in accordance to the profiles they offer. Furthermore, data spanning from the period of 2018 until 2020 was imported into the system including the planned budget, its execution and, in most schools, the inventory of all the current equipment/assets per profile, along with staff and student data. This allowed for a more transparent and accurate overview of the current financial resources in order to ensure realistic planning and increased budget performance. The system also allowed schools to build analytical reports that lead to better school management, as well as provide an overview of the situation for different stakeholders such as the Ministry of Education and Science (MES), the MED and AVETAE.

  After its implementation, a survey was conducted to assess the overall satisfaction of schools with the new financing system. The feedback was very positive with the schools’ trained staff, highlighting the ease of using the software and the fact that it allows for real time financial information.

  The new system could lead to harmonisation at a national level of this aspect of the VET financing system in Kosovo. Consequently, with the help of the beneficiaries, the solution ought to be implemented in all VET schools in Kosovo, and not only in the ones supported by the Project. The system would aid all schools in building capacities with regard to budget planning, financial analysis, mitigation of the identified risks, challenges, gaps and the administration of their financial system.

  
  Certification of the VET school representatives on the use of the new cost estimation and financial management software

• Kosovo - Business Model Offices lead to an international partnership agreement between the CoC Ferizaj and SEDU Vet School in Finland

  Published on 29 May 2020    By Nita Shala   

  An important component of the Project is the establishment of the Business Model Offices (BMO) and the advancement of a new management concept in all the supported Vocational Education Training (VET) schools. Through this component, the Project aims at increasing the relevance of the supported schools by intervening in the following aspects: advancing the qualification sets based on the Industry needs, identification and conclusion of agreements aiming at income generation opportunities, mapping and development of potential partnerships with the external stakeholders, and the development of the students skills and knowledge by conducting relevant practical work and professional practice.

  The Project has piloted the implementation of the Business Model concept in the Center of Competencies (CoC) Ferizaj enhancing its capacity of conducting industrial liaison and partnership building activities. The full dedication of the management of the CoC and the Project team has enabled the school to transform this innovative experience into a real success story through the signature of many partnership agreements with the national and international partners. Recently, the CoC Ferizaj has signed a long-term multi-purpose agreement with the SEDU VET School in Finland. Through this agreement, the graduates of the Professional Nurse profile in the CoC Ferizaj will be able to visit SEDU and attend an additional year of studies. The complementary education received from SEDU will equip the graduates with additional language skills and practical training leading to the receival of a Finnish diploma upon their graduation. Additionally, the CoC Ferizaj will receive support from the SEDU in the provision of the teaching and learning materials, and the professional development of the teachers of the pharmacy profile in the next three years.

  The CoC has selected the first cohort of 20 graduates following a strict selection process as per the same admission criteria applied in Finland. The selection process revealed that the student had the required level of knowledge reassuring the CoC on the quality of education it provides. The graduates have started their studies at SEDU in January 2020 and the initial impression on the quality of the educational experience received by them is very positive. The completion of this working experience will directly increase their value in the labour market by increasing their chances for immediate employment upon their return and provision of additional contribution to the field in Kosovo. A successful experience of the graduates will further promote the overall objective of the Project to support the creation of a technical workforce that is relevant to the social and economic development of Kosovo. At the same time, a successful agreement with SEDU will allow the CoC Ferizaj to ensure its long-term sustainability by the provision of quality education that will promote it as a future reference point for the local and European labour market. 

  
  The selected students at SEDU in Finland (13 February 2020)

• KOSOVO - Inclusion of Municipalities and national stakeholders for capital investments in supported VET (vocational education training) schools

  Published on 14 February 2020    By Nita Shala   

  One of the primary focus of the project is to improve the VET offer in Kosovo through creating a new Information Communication Technology for Center of Competencies (ICT CoC) in Pristina, developing qualifications and strengthening a number of selected VET institutions to reach a higher level of efficiency and sustainability. The achievement of these targets is being promoted through the provision of continuous technical and financial assistance to the selected Project beneficiaries. With the aim of improving the sustainability of these interventions and investments, the project has promoted the idea of increasing the level of endorsement and direct technical and financial involvement of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MEST), the Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education (AVETAE), and seven Municipality Education Directorates (MEDs) as the official governing institutions of schools. This has been promoted with activities of research, dialogue and negotiation culminating to the signing of Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) between the project and the Municipalities or AVETAE, in which the process of identification and commitment of financial resources for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the premises of supported VET schools are summarised.

  As a result of an efficient coordination and cooperation between the project and the above-mentioned institutions, the project has managed to receive an additional financial commitment of 2.4 million Euro. From this total amount, 88% of the resources are dedicated for the construction and renovation of schools’ premises, and the remaining 12% are budgeted for the purchase of equipment and consumables. As mentioned above, these additional financial resources committed by the municipalities along with the Project’s budget will be used exclusively for the renovation of premises, equipping of workshops and provision of consumables, which will allow these institutions to improve their performance and enable the student to benefit from a relevant VET offer.

  The joint investment between the Project and the Municipality of Pristina has enabled the building of the ICT CoC and the Tourism School in the Future VET Schools' Park in Pristina.

• KOSOVO - Recruitment of Private Sector Partners for the establishment of Industrial Bodies and the Industrial Advisory Board in the TVET School.

  Published on 14 February 2020    By Nita Shala   

  One of the main challenges faced by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector in Kosovo remains the limited cooperation between the schools and the employers. In order to promote an increased co-operation among these stakeholders, the Support to Vocational Education and Training (VET) Reform in Kosovo Project, KSV/020, is supporting the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MEST) in the establishment of the Business Model Offices (BMOs) in selected VET schools, The BMO consists of the following units: Industrial Liaison and Career Guidance Unit, Information Systems and Data Management Unit, and Service Provision Unit.

  An important component promoted by the Project and MEST through the Industrial Liaison Office in the schools is the establishment of the Industrial Bodies (IB) and Industrial Advisory Boards (IAB) in the selected profiles of the supported schools. The main aim of the IB and IAB is the provision of information to the school related to the trends of the labour market. More specifically, the IB will conduct activities of research, market investigation and middle management, involving directly technical staff of external partners and employers, with the aim to fill the gaps of knowledge and support the limited human resources of the VET schools. Its work will be oriented towards:

  • the identification of the changes in the labour market needs;
  • further professional development of the teachers;
  • the establishment of new partnerships; and
  • joint-ventures with the private sector and the creation of professional practice opportunities for the students.

  In the meantime, the IAB, formed by representatives of the Industrial Bodies, will seek to provide continuous advice to the school management and the school councils, focusing both on sector and profile level and capitalizing the research and information acquired by the IB.

  Seconding the initiative of the relevant stakeholders in the Municipality of Suhareka, the Project piloted the establishment of the IB and IAB in “Skender Luarasi” Vocational School, starting from a workshop that represented the official opening of the campaign of recruitment of representatives from the Private Sector. The event, organised by the Municipality of Suhareka and held in the premises of the school on12 December 2019, saw the presence of the delegates of the MEST, the Ministry of Innovation, the Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in Kosovo,  LuxDev Country Office and Project, and more than 30 representatives of the national and local business community and Civil Society.

  Following the presentation of the functions and goals of the component by the Project team, all the participating local companies have agreed to cooperate with the school for the establishment of IB and IAB for different profiles. The immediate formalisation of this cooperation was done through the official signature of the 14th Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs). Through these MoUs, the management of the school, the MED, the Project and the business representatives committed to work closely together and identify other interested companies in order to cover the remaining profiles offered in the school. In addition, the Project KSV/020 will continue to provide support, technical assistance and coaching for the establishment of IBs and IABs and the development of capacities.

  Official Launch of the Campaign of Recruitment of Private companies’ representatives for the establishment of Industrial Bodies and industrial Advisory Boards in “Skender Luarasi” School in Suhareka.

• KOSOVO - Employment of the graduates of Level 5 qualification for students/children with Special Education Needs (SEN)

  Published on 10 February 2020    By Nita Shala   

  One of the major steps undertaken in the implementation of the national reform of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) System in Kosovo, realized with the support of the Support to Vocational Education and Training (VET) Reform in Kosovo Project, KSV/020, is the introduction of the first two Level 5 qualifications in the public sector. The two courses, respectively in the fields of Special Education Needs (SEN) and Career Guidance (CG), have been developed in cooperation with the international partner Pearson Education and accredited by the Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC). Initially introduced in 2017, both Level 5 qualifications are replicated in four antenna institutions in Pristina, Ferizaj, Prizren and Peja enabling their access to a larger number of students throughout the main regions of Kosovo. This concretizes one of the main aspects of the scope of the Centres of Competence (CoCs), that according to the vision of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology (MEST) have to serve as national hubs of VET provision. It is important to note that both qualifications are also pioneering as income-generating activities allowing the CoCs to generate funds which can be used to pay for small expenses autonomously.

  Two years after their initial introduction, both Level 5 qualifications are successful, sustainable, in high demand and fully endorsed by the Government of Kosovo  and the MEST. A clear sign of this endorsement is the decision of the MEST to employ 100 SEN assistants throughout the public education system. Currently, 70 out of 129 graduates (two academic generations) have concluded regular employment contracts in public institutions. The significant percentage of employment of the SEN graduates (about 54.26%) represents an impressive achievement of the Project’s aim to foster employment in Kosovo, taking into consideration the high rate of unemployment and the general difficulties in professional requalification and access to the labour market. Further, it has an immediate impact on the quality provision of professional assistance to a number of children with special education needs, and a long-term impact in the improvement of the quality of their lives and in the general inclusion rate in the Country.

  The success of the qualifications has led to an increased interest of students to join the third generation of candidates that have started to be implemented in November 2019 and it is expected to end in October 2020. Further, the successful rate of employment has prompted the initiative for the development of other Level 5 qualifications required by the labour market which undoubtedly have a positive impact on narrowing the gap in terms of preparing skilled graduates for the labour market, thus enhancing the welfare and development of the Kosovo's economy.

  The second generation of graduates in the SEN Level 5 qualification: characterized by a massive presence of female candidates

  
  The second generation of graduates in the SEN Level 5 qualification: Delivery of diplomas with the presence of the Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Technology

   

• KOSOVO - An international recognition for the online information system “Busulla.COM”

  Published on 13 November 2019    By Daniele PASSALACQUA   

  Busulla.COM is an online Information System including tools for the provision of services related to Career Guidance for students and adults, Job Placement, Skills Assessment, and School management tools, as Training Need Analysis, Skills and Knowledge Need Assessment, Industrial Liaison and M&E applications.

  It has been awarded with the title of the best public service in Kosovo at the Albanian ICT Awards Contest 2019. Developed with the financial support of Luxembourg Development Cooperation and the technical support of the Project KSV/020, in partnership with a consortium of Swiss providers. It includes the "Basic Check Test" largely used in Switzerland and by the Luxembourg Chambre des Salariés  and Chambre des Metiers.

  

  In addition to the high recognition of the System by the local authorities and the active donors in the sector (i.e. GIZ and USAID), the European Training Foundation has dedicated an article to it on page 23 of the Issue 44 of their highly specialised magazine "Live & Learn”.  

  Link to the magazine: click here 

  Besides, a project of the World Bank, the Austrian Federal Ministry of Finance and the Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies "The Jobs Gateway" dedicated an international Webinar to Busulla.COM, for which they invited the Chief technical advisor of the KSV/020 project,  Daniele Cristian Passalacqua, to be the main speaker.

  The Webinar saw the active participation of several countries' delegations, specialised in the sector and including the neighbouring Serbia, Albania, Macedonia and Montenegro. High interest was registered by some central authorities strictly linked with policy makers and the exchange was fostering replications of similar tools in other Education Systems.

  More information about the webinar: click here

• KOSOVO - Upgrade of Gjin Gazulli Technical School to a new Centre of Competence (CoC) in ICT in Pristina

  Published on 23 April 2019    By Nita Shala   

  On 5 November 2018, Project KSV/020 signed the agreement with the Municipality of Pristina for the upgrade of Gjin Gazulli VET School to a new Centre of Competence (CoC) for Information and Communications Technology (ICT). In line with the Project’s objectives and in consultation with the Ministry of Education Science and Technology (MEST), the Project commits to provide full technical and financial support to the new Centre in its two main components during the three-year upgrade process. The first component of support includes the construction and renovation of the current premises of the school to international building standards of a CoC in ICT. Furthermore, under this component, the Project has committed financial resources for the acquisition and installation of furniture and IT equipment.

  The second component of support focuses on the development of six (6) IT profiles (Application Developer – Coding, Business Informatics Technician, Systems Technician, Graphic Design Technician, Mediamatician / Interactive Media Design Technician, and Electronic Technician) that represent a priority for the ICT and Electronic sector in Kosovo. Under this commitment, the Project will support MEST in the development of the full range of qualification components for those profiles including the Occupational Standards (OS), Curricula, Teaching and Learning Material (TLM) and the capacity development of the management and teachers of the new CoC. All qualification sets will be designed and developed based on a balance of theory and practice that will reflect the real need of the local and international labour market, facilitating the absorption of the students to be absorbed by the labour market immediately after the graduation. Furthermore, the Project will provide technical assistance to the CoC and the Municipality, to ensure a constant alignment with the reforms and activities promoted at national level such as the implementation of the Business Model Office guidelines, Career Guidance Services, Information Systems and Digital Tools, other cross-cutting activities for the benefit of the socio-economic development.

  

  As stated in the MoU, the main aim of this intervention is to allow the students who will register for the academic year 2020-2021 onwards to engage in the new ICT CoC and benefit from new updated qualifications aligned to European and international education standards. By adopting significant elements of the VET dual system applied in Switzerland, Austria and Germany, and adapting them to the socio-economic reality of Kosovo, the ICT CoC will go well beyond its former role of traditional educational institution that provides formal education. Instead, stakeholders they will offer several income generating services in partnership with private (short courses, adult education, on the job training or employment opportunities for the students or the community, other services oriented to the common social benefit, the development of start-ups etc.), that will improve the financial performance of the VET Schools and promote a sustainable development of the ICT sector in Kosovo.

  

• KOSOVO - A new innovative platform for the provision of Career Orientation, Job Placement and the management of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) schools

  Published on 1 January 2019    By Nita Shala   

  One of the most significant components supported by Project KSV/020 is the upgrading of the Career Guidance Information Systems (CGIS) into a more comprehensive instrument serving the Business Model Office of TVET schools in Kosovo. This commitment signifies a continuation and expansion of the support provided by Project KSV/015 for the development of a series of tools and applications that will improve the provision of students’ career orientation, job placement and management services, boosting the TVET sector in the whole country. The list of activities and events planned for this component aims at developing the provision of a international standard career guidance services in Kosovo, which were almost non-existent. The current CGIS, namely Busulla.com, will be upgraded and enriched with additional features that will transform it into a user-friendly tool that will be used by different stakeholders engaged in the education and career guidance sector in Kosovo.

  These innovative features will facilitate the updating of Occupational Standards and Curricula, the acquisition of labour market information (which will then be fed into the Education Management Information System (EMIS) of the MEST) and will digitalise some TVET school management practices. The most significant applications of the upgraded platform are: the Industrial Liaison Tool, the Training need analysis (TNA) and Skills and Knowledge Need Assessment (SKNA) web portal interface, the Busulla Mobile application on IOS and Android, the Basic Check Potential Assessment tests and the digitalization of VET Schools monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system. In order to ensure an effective roll-out at a national level, the Project will train master trainers. The next step will be the implementation of a large-scale training programme involving the staff of schools, municipalities, public and private institutions in the use of all the CGIS functionalities.

  

• Launch of Project KSV/020 – Support to Vocational Education and Training Reform in Kosovo – Phase 2

  Published on 1 January 2019    By Nita Shala   

  On 15 November 2018, LuxDev launched the Project KSV/020, representing the second phase of support in the process of implementation of the VET reform in Kosovo lead by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MEST). The general objective of the Project is the provision of support for the creation of a technical workforce that is relevant to the social and economic development of Kosovo through the improvement of the TVET system and delivery. The Project duration is of four years

  Throughout the event, participants who represented all the main stakeholders of the VET sector in Kosovo (local government and municipalities, civil society, project beneficiaries, and Donor Funded Projects Representatives) were informed about the results achieved under the predecessor Project KSV/015 and the main components planned under the new Project, representing a natural bridging of activities between two phases of the intervention. The results already achieved at the beginning of the new Project were the precise identification of the Project beneficiary schools and the formalisation of the agreement with the Municipality of Prishtina for the upgrade of Gjin Gazulli Technical School into a Centre of Competence for Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).

  

  The representatives of the MEST, led by Minister Shyqiri Bytyqi, welcomed the continuous support provided by the Government of Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and the technical assistance by LuxDev, highlighting the relevance and effectiveness of the activities implemented in the path of promoting national reforms in the VET sector in Kosovo. The Project is assisting with the development of a new concept of VET institutions, VET governing structure and VET financing vision focusing on financial sustainability. Along with the expression of gratitude, MEST representatives officially presented two crucially important components of the new phase of the intervention: the draft of the VET Schools Business Model (BM) Manual and future developments of the supported Career Guidance Information System (CGIS).

  The draft of the BM manual developed by the Project, was endorsed as the official manual of the MEST and will be used in all VET schools in Kosovo. A presentation was made of additional innovative features to be developed for the CGIS, called Busulla (busulla.com). It has been officially recognised as the National System for the provision of CG services in Kosovo and its link included in the MEST website. The signing of MoUs between a new larger number of Municipality Education Directorates and the Busulla service provider, represented a further step towards the financial sustainability of the whole component.