EU Support for the Competitiveness of Kosovo’s ICT Sector: 8th Semester Certification Ceremony

The EU-funded project “ICT for Kosovo’s Growth” aims to address the lack of skilled workforce in Kosovo’s ICT sector. In collaboration with WEglobal, Prishtina REA, European Management, and the Ministry of Economy, the project offers advanced ICT training for students, graduates in computer science, engineering, programming, and mathematics, as well as ICT company staff, start-ups, and freelancers.

Project Goals and Objectives

The project enhances digital skills to help young people secure employment in the ICT sector, start their own businesses, or work as ICT freelancers/consultants. It also supports ICT companies by offering business skills training and organizing B2B events across the EU.

Key Achievements

By the end of the 8th Semester, the project achieved the following:

• Digital Skills Development: 2,386 people trained, with 1,924 certified in Web Development, Enterprise Java Programming, Cyber Security, Python, Big Data Analytics, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence.
  • 752 trainees (39%) are women, and over 320 trainees are employed.
• Internship Scheme: The project launched the Internship Scheme to cultivate talent, foster innovation, and bridge the gap between academic learning and practical industry experience. As part of this initiative, the project connected trainees with ICT companies. Twelve internship agreements were signed, and the project team actively monitored their implementation.

8th Semester Certification Award Ceremony

The 8th Semester Certification Award Ceremony honored 213 certified trainees who completed the 300-hour ICT training across seven modules. The training was conducted by experienced local and international trainers. The ceremony took place with around 300 participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Economy (ME), STIKK, ICT companies, internship hosts, trainees, and trainers.

Keynote Speakers and Highlights

• Ms. Edita Pozhegu, adviser to the Minister of Economy, highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to ICT and digital economy support, youth skills development, and internationalization.

• Grigoris Kontzoglou, the Project Team Leader, presented the project’s achievements and future plans. He emphasized the importance of the program in supporting Kosovo’s ICT sector growth.

• Ahmet Jetullahu-Meti, the Communication Expert, encouraged participants to embrace learning opportunities through the project’s ICT trainings. These trainings equip participants with essential skills and create pathways to exciting internship opportunities.

Success Stories

Three internship beneficiaries and three host companies shared motivational speeches about their experiences. Additionally, Luan Kerleshi shared his inspiring success story, transitioning from a trainee to a mentor. Luan founded his own company, Postieri XYZ L.L.C, and now hosts interns through the project, showcasing the growth opportunities the program provides.

Continued Growth

The project continues with the Round IX and X of advanced ICT and digital training programs. It also carries forward the Internship Scheme to provide ongoing career development and growth opportunities for trainees.