KOSOVO’S DIGITAL SKILLS PROGRAMME EMPOWERS YOUTH FOR FUTURE JOBS

Success stories of participants highlight the transformative impact of digital skills training.

August 23, 2023


The Digital Skills Programme in Kosovo has emerged as a beacon of success, empowering young individuals, and positioning them as a competitive player in the global digital economy. This pioneering initiative has become a model for similar programmes worldwide, inspiring others with its positive impact and cultivating skilled workforce prepared to embrace the digital era.

The programme's effectiveness is showcased through the success stories of its participants, who have experienced life-changing transformations in the digital sector. Four remarkable individuals from the programme have generously shared their valuable perspectives on the importance of acquiring knowledge in the digital era, which played a vital role in their personal and professional development.

 


Viola Maksuti, is a passionate professional in Computing and Information Technologies (CIT) with a strong focus on web development. Her goal is to expand programming skills and create innovative projects that can make a positive impact in today's digital age. Upon completion of this programme, she aspires to start working as a Junior Backend Developer, utilizing her proficiency in backend development to collaborate effectively and build robust web solutions.

“I find the digital transformation driven by AI fascinating and dynamic. AI has the potential to revolutionize industries, offering benefits such as automation, improved decision-making, and increased efficiency. However, it is crucial to approach AI integration with careful consideration for potential drawbacks and ethical concerns. Transparency, accountability, and fairness should be prioritized to address issues like bias, privacy, and the impact on employment. By tackling these challenges, we can leverage the power of AI while upholding our values and ensuring the well-being of individuals and society”, Viola shared when we discussed her future goals.
 


“My name is Omer Islami, and I'm thrilled to be pursuing a career in web development. I chose this field because of its dynamic nature and abundant opportunities for growth. I am confident that web development will provide me with sought-after skills in today's digital landscape.”

Omer shared his ambition with us regarding his long-term plan to become a web developer and apply the knowledge and skills gained from training. He aims to expand his expertise in different areas of web development as technology continues to advance. He is excited about the prospect of contributing to innovative web solutions that enhance user experiences and push the boundaries of what is possible online.

“Digital transformation and AI have a profound impact on our lives and society. They have the potential to revolutionize industries and drive progress. However, it's important to approach them responsibly and address challenges such as data privacy, misuse of technology, the impact on the job market, and legal considerations. I believe that by embracing digital transformation and AI with a balanced perspective and a commitment to ethical practices, we can harness their power to improve lives, drive innovation, and create a better future for all”.
 


Donika Jupaj, is a graduate of FIEK-Electrical Engineering, specializing in Electric Energy. Currently, she works as an Energy Trader, responsible for managing and analyzing large volumes of data. Understanding the significance of data-driven decision-making she has undertaken an extensive training programme in Data Engineering.

During our discussion, Donika emphasized: “The training in Data Engineering will significantly enhance my ability to effectively handle and analyze the extensive databases I encounter daily. By leveraging advanced data engineering techniques and tools, my goal is to derive precise and meaningful insights that can drive informed decision-making in the energy trading domain. I am confident that this training will greatly contribute to my professional growth and enable me to deliver more accurate and valuable results in my position as an Energy Trader”.
 


Our fourth interviewer Rron Daci, a 27-year-old mechanical engineering master's graduate from UP. For the past six years, he has been working as a mechanical engineer at Birra Peja. Currently, he is attending the Data Engineering training, focusing on SQL Server. He hopes that these trainings, combined with his previous knowledge, will equip him to work with data in various projects and companies.

“These skills enable me to conduct in-depth data analysis, manage databases, develop data-driven applications, and present data effectively. Digitalization and AI have significantly transformed workflows across all sectors. Utilizing technology and data analysis allows organizations to automate processes, make informed decisions, and enhance overall performance. AI plays a crucial role in analyzing vast amounts of data, uncovering patterns, and identifying trends”.
 


These testimonials collectively underscore the transformative impact of digital skills training on participants' lives. By equipping them with the necessary expertise, the Digital Skills Programme in Kosovo has prepared a skilled workforce capable of thriving in the digital landscape. The programme's targeted training, private sector partnerships, and focus on gender inclusivity have been instrumental in driving economic growth and positioning Kosovo as a forward-thinking player in the global digital economy.

Led by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in close collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Administration and RIT Kosovo (A.U.K), the Digital Skills Programme) aims to equip participants with essential digital skills, providing them with tools and knowledge necessary for the digital age. The programme is implemented with generous financial support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic.
 


About the Digital Skills Programme:

The Digital Skills Programme in Kosovo is a strategic initiative aimed at fostering digital transformation and empowering young individuals with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital era. The programme offers intensive training in key digital domains, equipping participants with expertise for entry-level tech positions. By investing in digital skills development, the programme promotes economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development in Kosovo.

 

Story by: Enis Mustafa - UNDP Kosovo - Communication Office

Photos & Design by: Enis Mustafa