This is the first year of the existence of the EPALE platform in Kosovo, the National Support Service directs its activities towards the following objectives:

• Promoting the EPALE portal as a unique tool that provides an opportunity for cooperation, exchange of experiences and discussion
•  Establish a professional and consultative body comprised of professionals from MESTI, Agency for VET and adult education(AVETAE), Employment Agency of Kosovo (EAK) – coordinated by EPALE NSS Kosovo 
•  Engage as many adult learning professionals as possible to be active in EPALE as well as deliver high-quality content and ensure it remains up-to-date. 
• Increase gradually the number/content of EPALE users in the platform.
•  Providing technical support to users when using the portal and training users for the most efficient use of the technical capabilities of the portal
• Supporting the exchange of good practices between teachers and trainers in the field of adult education in Kosovo and other EPALE member countries.

In the coming period, in accordance with the above-mentioned goals, the NSS team will organize a series of activities such as: presenting the EPALE platform to relevant institutions and individuals, conferences, webinars, presenting important information through EPALE NSS Kosovo social media platforms, through adult learning networks, as well as printing the necessary materials.Each activity will be announced in a timely manner via EPALE platform.

EPALE NSS Kosovo contacts are below:

E-mail: epalenss.kosovo@gmail.com

Phone: +383 38 244 884

Address: Street Rexhep Mala nr 24, ICK Building Floor III, Prishtina, 10000 Kosovo

Adult education in Kosovo is a crucial component of lifelong learning, aiming to enhance employability, social inclusion, and personal development. The sector is regulated by the Law on Adult Education and Training (No. 02/L-24), which establishes the framework for vocational training, non-formal education, and upskilling initiatives. The National Qualifications Authority (NQA) and the Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education (AVETAE) oversee quality assurance and program accreditation.

The primary legislation overseeing adult education in Kosovo is Law on Adult Education and Training, enacted in 2013. This law outlines the principles, objectives, and organizational structures for adult education, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and the need to adapt to labor market demands. It also delineates the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology (MEST), municipalities, and educational institutions. 

Complementing this, the Law on Vocational Education and Training focuses on vocational education, aiming to equip individuals with practical skills aligned with market needs. This law establishes the framework for vocational training programs and the accreditation of institutions providing such education. 

Institutions Involved

Several key institutions play pivotal roles in the implementation and development of adult education in Kosovo:

• Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology Innovation (MESTI): As the central authority, MESTI is responsible for formulating policies, overseeing the implementation of adult education programs, and ensuring quality standards across educational institutions.
• Kosovo Pedagogical Institute (KPI): Operating under MESTI, KPI conducts research, provides training, and offers professional support to educational institutions. Its mission includes analyzing educational achievements, developing curricula, and supporting the implementation of educational reforms. 
• Agency for Vocational Education and Training and for Adults: This agency monitors and develops vocational education and training programs, ensuring they align with labor market requirements. It operates under the supervision of MESTI and collaborates with various stakeholders to enhance the quality and relevance of vocational training. 
• Kosovo Employment Agency: Established in 2015, this agency provides vocational training for adults, aiming to enhance employability and address unemployment challenges. It operates vocational training centers across the country, offering programs tailored to the needs of the labor market. 

In addition to these institutions, international organizations such as DVV International have contributed to the advancement of adult education in Kosovo. Notably, DVV International's Curriculum globALE, a framework for training adult educators, received formal recognition from the Kosovan Ministry of Education in 2024, underscoring the country's commitment to enhancing the quality of adult education. 

Collectively, this legislative framework and the active involvement of dedicated institutions underscore Kosovo's commitment to fostering a robust adult education system that addresses the evolving needs of its population and economy.

Adult education in Kosovo involves multiple stakeholders from the public sector, private institutions, international organizations, and civil society. The key stakeholders include:

Government Institutions

1. Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI) – Responsible for policymaking, regulation, and oversight of adult education programs.
2. Ministry of Finance, Labor, and Transfers (MFLT) – Oversees vocational training and employment-related adult education programs.
3. National Qualifications Authority (NQA) – Ensures quality assurance and accreditation of adult education programs.
4. Kosovo Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education (AVETAE) – Manages vocational education and adult training centers (6 Centers of Competence).
5. Municipal Education Directorates – Implement local adult education initiatives and coordinate with training providers.

Public and Private Training Providers

6. Public Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) – Operated by the MFLT, these centers provide free training for job seekers (8 VTCs).
7. Private Training Centers – Offer a variety of courses in IT, language learning, business skills, and other fields.
8. Higher Education Institutions – Few Universities and colleges offer lifelong learning and professional development programs.

International Organizations and Donors

9. European Union (EU) – Supports adult education through various funding programs and policy guidance.
10. GIZ (German Agency for International Cooperation) – Implements vocational training and lifelong learning projects.
11. UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) – Supports skills development for employment.

Employers and Industry Representatives

13. Chamber of Commerce and Business Associations – Provide input on skills needs and support workforce training.
14. Private Sector Companies – Invest in employee training and collaborate with education providers.

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and NGOs

15. Education and Training NGOs – Organizations like DVV International Kosovo branch support non-formal education initiatives.
16. Adult Education Networks – Advocate for lifelong learning and skills development.

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