On June 10, 2025, the Youth and Adult Learning and Education Centre (YALEC) was inaugurated in Vushtrri. The establishment of this centre was made possible through close cooperation between the Municipality of Vushtrri, DVV International, and the NGO 'Hareja', and it represents a contemporary model of non-formal education, tailored to the needs of both youth and adults.
The ceremony was attended by representatives of local, central, and international institutions, including the Minister of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation – MESTI, Ms. Arbërie Nagavci; the Mayor of Vushtrri, Mr. Ferit Idrizi; the German Ambassador to Kosovo, Mr. Jörn Rohde; as well as representatives from the “Isa Boletini” University in Mitrovica, prof. asoc. dr. Faton Merovci.
The ceremony was opened by Mr. Bajrush Kosumi, Director of the NGO Hareja, who expressed his gratitude to the Municipality of Vushtrri and DVV International for their support in making this project possible. Afterwards, a video was presented, showcasing the journey and preparations leading up to the opening of the center.
In her speech, Minister Arbërie Nagavci emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and institutional commitment to adult education. She acknowledged the 20-year contribution of DVV International in this field, highlighting its role in fulfilling the objectives of the Education Strategy 2022–2026, particularly in improving the quality of adult education. The inauguration of the YALEC Center in Vushtrri was recognized as an important step toward building a sustainable and inclusive education system for all citizens, regardless of age or educational background.
The Mayor of the Municipality of Vushtrri, Mr. Ferit Idrizi, emphasized the importance of both formal and non-formal education, with particular emphasis on adult education. He highlighted the municipality’s need to strengthen the professional capacities of young people and stated the center will provide training programs to prepare citizens for the challenges of the labor market.
Ambassador Jörn Rohde welcomed the opening of the YALEC Center in Vushtrri as an excellent example of successful cooperation between civil society, local institutions, and international partners. He emphasized that education is the key to empowering individuals in democratic participation, employment, and innovation, while also acknowledging the continuous support of DVV International in adult education since 2005, as well as the ongoing contribution of the German Government in strengthening this sector.
Meanwhile, Mr. Ramadan Alija, Head of the DVV International office in Kosovo, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting lifelong learning. He noted that this is the third holistic center opened based on the model of German folk high schools, following those in Prizren and Peja, and aims to promote broad inclusion and provide equal opportunities for all citizens.
Additionally, Associate Professor Dr. Faton Merovci from the 'Isa Boletini' University highlighted the importance of this center, particularly in motivating marginalized citizens to regain their desire to learn and to build a better future.
This center marks an important step toward building a more prepared, equal, and engaged society, where every citizen has the opportunity to grow and contribute to their community. With the support of local and international partners, the YALEC Center in Vushtrri aims to create an inspiring environment for lifelong learning and the empowerment of citizens.