DVV International in Kosovo

Conference – Promoting Adult Education in Kosovo, November 23, 2023

The country office of DVV International in Kosovo is working on the field of Adult Education since 2005. The goal of the organization is to establish an efficient and effective adult education system.

According to the population census completed on May 24, 2024, Kosovo has 1.6 million inhabitants, with an average age of 35, ranking it as the second youngest population in Europe. Demographic data show that 66.1% of the population is aged 15-64, while the labor force participation rate for this age group is 40.7%, with 59.3% remaining economically inactive. The unemployment rate has seen a significant improvement, dropping to 10.7% in 2023 (Agjencia e Statistikave të Kosovës) Despite these positive changes, Kosovo continues to face economic challenges, with a considerable portion of the population living below the national poverty line.

In Kosovo, many of the unemployed lack the skills necessary to have an opportunity in the labor market. For this reason, DVV International works with local partners to improve and expand offers for adult education with an eye on target groups. Special target groups are women from rural areas, people with disabilities and ethnic minorities.

Together with various partners, in recent years DVV International has launched and gotten underway a number of important initiatives for the creation of improved political and legal frameworks for adult education in the country. These include in particular the Adult Education Act, the Act on Vocational Education and Training and the “Kosovo Education Strategic Plan 2022– 2026”.

The main focus of DVV International's work in Kosovo

Incorporating Adult Education (ALE) into national and local policies, such as state and local education strategies, as well as drafting or revising relevant legislation on ALE at both local and national levels in the Republic of Kosovo.

Developing ALE through advocacy, lobbying, and national and international networking with relevant state organizations, civil society, and local NGOs in Kosovo.

Providing sustainable training for ALE specialists, ensuring quality in this field, and establishing and developing new centers with a holistic approach to ALE, based on the experience of German Folk Schools (VHS).

Expanding the number of quality offers and services for Adult Education (ALE), based on the needs of individuals and relevant communities in the Republic of Kosovo.