On June 11, 2024, Save the Children Kosova/o had the distinct pleasure of hosting his excellency Mr. Georg Schnetzer, Austrian Ambassador to Kosovo and Mr. Heinz Habertheuer, the Programme Director of the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), for an insightful and engaging field visit in the Municipality of Ferizaj. This visit underscored the collaborative efforts between ADA, SCiK and local partners in enhancing access to vocational education and training and providing career orientation services for young girls and boys from vulnerable communities in Kosovo.

Welcome at Pjeter Bogdani VET Upper-Secondary School

The day commenced with a vibrant Open Door Event at the Pjeter Bogdani VET Upper-Secondary School. Mr. Schnetzer, Mr. Habertheuer and representatives of the Austrian Development Agency in Kosovo were welcomed by Deputy Mayor of the Ferizaj Municipality Mr. Aliu, representatives of the Municipal Directorate of Education, school community, including students and teachers. The event showcased to lower-secondary students the available career paths and opportunities for accruing on the job learning opportunities available ad vocational education and training (VET) institutions, inspiring visitors to join a dynamic learning environment that equips students with practical skills and knowledge.

Guided Tour of the Open Door Event

Mr. Schnetzer and Mr. Habertheuer embarked on a guided tour of the school, where they explored various stands displaying the students' work and the school practical learning facilities. This tour provided a comprehensive overview of the vocational programs, highlighting the effect of such events in improving school image and showcasing the innovative approaches being implemented to enhance student learning and employability within these schools.

During the tour, Mr.Schnetzer and Mr. Habertheuer had the opportunity to engage with teachers and students, he listened to their experiences and aspirations, gaining firsthand insights into the work and challenges these schools face.

Open Discussion with Project Partners and Stakeholders

Following the Open Door Event, Mr.Schnetzer and Mr.Habertheuer participated in an open discussion with project partners and stakeholders. This session included representatives from NGO Nevo Koncepti, NGO Syri i Vizionit, project mentors and school staff. The discussion provided a platform to exchange experiences and challenges face in the field in our join initiative to empower young girls and boys with capacities, skills and knowledge to successfully transition into adulthood and the labour market.

During the open discussion, Mr. Habertheuer and the stakeholders delved into the successes, challenges and lessons learned from the ongoing implementation. Topics included the breaking of barriers for young girls and boys from vulnerable communities face in accessing education, the importance of providing mentorship and additional learning support for these students, working with parents and school staff in raising their awareness and community engagement strategies. The collaborative dialogue underscored the importance of continuous support and adaptive strategies to sustain and expand the impact of these project.

Conclusion of the visit

The day's activities culminated in a session of closing remarks. Mr. Schnetzer and Mr. Habertheuer expressed their gratitude for the warm reception and commended the dedication of all partners involved. They reiterated the ADA's commitment to supporting educational and developmental initiatives in Ferizaj, emphasizing the significance of such collaborative efforts in driving positive change.

The visit of Mr. Schnetzer and Mr. Habertheuer to Ferizaj has strengthened the ties between the Austrian Development Agency, Save the Children Kosova/o and local partners. It has reaffirmed the shared vision of enhancing educational opportunities for vulnerable communities in Kosovo.