Validation of Prior Learning, also known as Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), has been in the center of attention and discussions in the EU Agenda and on EPALE Platform. First steps in Albania regarding RPL were made through the “ILO - EU IPA 2010 Project on Human Resources Development in Albania” financed by European Union, IPA 2010 funds and implemented by ILO.

The project held its activities throughout September 2011 – December 2014. Under this project, the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), a mechanism to encourage labor market mobility and leverage already existing skills, was applied for the first time in Albania in garment industry in November 2014. Other activities of Mechanisms of RPL, included: (1) drafting a methodology for procedures of validation of non-formal and informal learning aligned to European good practices; (2) development of occupational standards for Line Technician Production for Garment Industry and Quality Controller for Leather Footwear Production and the preparation of the assessment tools; (3) piloting of RPL processes from a group of 10 high level trained professionals.