Core area “Sustainable economic development, training and employment” Creating opportunities for young people

    Nearly all Albanian companies are micro, small or medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Many of them operate in the informal sector. The education system and especially the vocational training system are not sufficiently geared towards enterprises' needs. This is making it difficult for young people to find suitable jobs. And many companies complain that they cannot find suitable skilled labour.

    Training of chefs in a vocational school in Kamza, Albania

    Training of chefs in a vocational school in Kamza, Albania

    Many workers, especially those who are well-educated or well-trained, migrate to urban areas or other countries in search of better opportunities. Small and rural enterprises also have a hard time accessing loans and financing. This is also limiting their capacity to create new jobs.


    German activities

    German development cooperation activities are intended to help create more jobs in Albania, with a focus on the long-term viability of the jobs, and ensure people earn higher incomes. Together with the Albanian government, Germany has drafted an employment promotion strategy that is now being implemented:

    • In addition to providing support for a vocational school, Germany is assisting Albania in helping ten vocational training centres to operate more professionally. There is also close cooperation with private training facilities.
    • In collaboration with training facilities and business associations, training programmes are being developed for entrepreneurs who want to improve their business skills.
    • Active efforts are also being made to include people in these programmes who have spent some time abroad, especially in Germany. Job creation in rural areas is another focus of German activities. This is done through a regional programme for South Eastern Europe.
    • Support is being provided to disadvantaged population groups (youth, women, minorities, persons with disabilities) through pre-vocational training courses to help them develop skills, widen their job prospects and find a job or start their own business.
    IT training of young people in a vocational school in Kamza, Albania

    IT training of young people in a vocational school in Kamza, Albania

    As at: 16/06/2023