From Skills to Opportunity: Advancing Kosovo’s Digital Future

Representatives of government institutions, the ICT sector, vocational education providers and development partners gathered at Kosovo's Digital Future: Insights, Skills and Opportunities to discuss workforce needs, digital skills development and the future of dual vocational education and training in Kosovo. Organized by STIKK with the support of the Skills for Sustainable Jobs in Kosovo project, funded by the Government of Luxembourg and implemented by LuxDev, the forum provided an opportunity to review achievements, share lessons learned and explore future opportunities for strengthening Kosovo's digital economy.
 

Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between education and industry, improving workforce readiness and expanding opportunities for young people in one of Kosovo's most dynamic economic sectors.
 

In his opening remarks, Eric Dietz, Head of Mission of the Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in Kosovo, highlighted the strong partnerships, practical tools and institutional capacities established through the project. He noted that these achievements have created a solid basis for the continued development of Dual VET in the ICT sector and emphasized that the next phase now rests on sustained leadership and cooperation among public institutions, businesses and education providers.
 

A key feature of the event was the presentation of the Kosovo IT Barometer 2025, which provides valuable insights into employment trends, skills gaps, exports and workforce needs in Kosovo's ICT sector. The Barometer has become an important source of evidence for policymakers, educators and businesses, helping to ensure that education and training programmes remain relevant to labour market demands. Building on previous editions, it also contributes to a better understanding of how Dual VET can support the development of a skilled and competitive workforce.
 

The project delivered several concrete results aimed at strengthening the connection between education and employment. These included the revision and validation of ICT occupational profiles, the development of new training standards, support for the accreditation of private ICT training providers, and the training of in-company instructors who will guide students through workplace-based learning. These efforts have helped align training programmes more closely with industry needs while strengthening cooperation between employers and education institutions.

Another highlight of the event was the certification of 45 in-company instructors who successfully completed specialized training to support practical learning in the workplace. Their role will be essential in ensuring that students acquire relevant experience and skills in real working environments. Participants also reviewed initial cooperation agreements between schools and companies aimed at expanding opportunities for workplace learning and strengthening partnerships within the ICT ecosystem.
 

As the project concludes, stakeholders emphasized the importance of building on the partnerships, expertise and systems that have been established. With stronger cooperation between institutions and businesses, improved labour market intelligence through the IT Barometer, and enhanced opportunities for practical skills development, Kosovo is well positioned to continue strengthening its digital workforce and supporting innovation, competitiveness and sustainable economic growth.