Dear Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Ms. Arbërie Nagavci,
Dear Director of the Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education, Ms. Fekrije Zymberi,
Honorable Director of the ‘Shtjefën Gjeçovi’ Center of Competence in Prishtina, Mr. Blerim Gërvalla,
Dear representative of the Fit for Jobs organization, Mr. Mario Eckardt,
Honored guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is both a pleasure and an honor to be with you today at this important moment for vocational education in our country. For the first time during this mandate, we have made dual education a reality in our vocational schools—because it is a key priority of our government and one of the most meaningful projects for the future of our youth and our country’s economy.
This model combines theory with practice and connects young people with the real job market. It began in 2022 in four schools, in four different profiles, in three municipalities of Kosovo, involving 107 students who believed in this new path.
Today, just three years later, we are witnessing a true transformation. Dual education is now being implemented in 25 vocational schools across 14 municipalities, in a total of 12 profiles, with over 1,600 students participating.
These are the young men and women who are building a sustainable future through knowledge and skills, confidence, and preparation for life and work.
In September 2022, the “Shtjefën Gjeçovi” Center of Competence began implementing dual education for the first time with the Hairdressing profile.
This school was among the first to take on the courage and responsibility of embracing this innovative educational model. Currently, this important educational center offers dual education in three profiles: auto mechanics, aesthetics, and hairdressing, with around 220 students enrolled.
This is an institutional success, a victory for all of us, and a step forward toward an educational system that creates real opportunities.
I feel especially happy to be here today to celebrate the success of 19 students in the Hairdressing profile—the first generation certified under the dual education system.
This moment is more than just a certification; it is the crowning of a path paved with dedication, work, and vision. I regret not coming here a week ago when I needed a haircut—but of course, this just means I may have to return next month.
Last week, I attended the certification ceremony of the first generation in the masonry and similar profiles at the Center of Competence in Skenderaj. At the end of this week, I will also attend the certification of the first generation in the profiles of Cook and Hospitality Assistant at the “7 Shtatori” Vocational Secondary School in Prishtina.
Our young people are successfully completing a three-year journey that began in the 2022/2023 school year—bringing together classroom and enterprise, knowledge and experience, dreams and work.
Dual education in Kosovo is being developed according to the highest international standards, based on the German model—one of the most successful in the world. We are now in the third year of implementation, and the first results speak for themselves.
I would like to express my deep gratitude for the steadfast support of the Government and Embassy of Germany, and the Government of Luxembourg through LuxDev.
In addition to funding, they have provided us with guidance, examples, experience, and expertise, which we have carefully tailored to our needs and developments.
A special thanks also goes to the partner businesses, schools and teachers, and the working groups who have devotedly contributed to this shared success.
Dear students,
You are the best evidence that education can be transformed into a driving engine for the development of our society and economy.
Your journey is an inspiration for the generations to come, so be proud of yourselves, and never stop dreaming and building the future you deserve.
Congratulations on your graduation and best wishes going forward!
Thank you!
