Implementation period: December 2025 – July 2026

Regions: Tirane, Vlore, Sarande, Shkoder, durres, Elbasan, Berat

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and sustainability of dual vocational education and training (VET) in Albania, the project is developing and implementing a comprehensive system for the training, certification, and support of in-company mentors.

A standardized national training programme is being designed to equip mentors with the skills needed to effectively guide and support trainees in real workplace environments. This will be complemented by a practical mentor manual and toolbox, providing day-to-day guidance and ensuring consistency in mentoring practices across sectors.

To ensure quality and recognition, assessment and certification procedures are being established, enabling mentors to be formally evaluated and certified. Through this process, the project aims to train and certify 200–300 in-company mentors, ensuring that dual VET programmes are supported by qualified professionals in the workplace.

In parallel, the project is working to build a sustainable system by conducting a rapid assessment of institutional capacities and developing a delivery chain manual and a national capacity development plan. These tools will define roles, responsibilities, and processes, enabling VET providers and governing bodies to institutionalize and scale up mentor training nationwide.

Furthermore, a training programme for trainers (ToT) is being developed, aiming to establish a pool of around 100 trained staff, including trainers, master trainers, and administrative personnel, to ensure long-term sustainability and system ownership.

Overall, the project is expected to lay a strong foundation for a more structured, coordinated, and sustainable approach to in-company mentoring within the dual VET system, contributing to improved quality of training and stronger alignment with labor market needs.

Partners and stakeholders

The meetings involved both public and private actors, who are expected to play a crucial role in the development of the project and in achieving its outcomes:

• Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Tirana – representing businesses and promoting cooperation with logistics companies.
• Institute of Logistics – providing academic expertise and technical knowledge in supply chain management.
• Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport – coordinating policies and transport infrastructure.
• Ministry of Agriculture – integrating logistics into the agri-food sector.
• Private logistics companies such as Dimant Logistics – contributing business practices and innovation on the ground.

Partners are expected to actively support innovation and technology transfer, implement green and sustainable practices, promote SME internationalization, share knowledge and data, and organize events, training, and networking opportunities. They will also contribute in digital platforms and applications, including the e-Networking & Business Support Platform, and two smart apps: “Warehouses & Logistic Centers” (matching supply and demand) and “Optimal Route Planner” (route optimization for SMEs).

Project significance

The project is particularly important given the current state of logistics infrastructure in the region. The consultative meetings conducted under Intercluster serve as a strategic foundation for the initiative’s success. They create a network of cooperation, align best practices, and strengthen local capacities, contributing not only to logistics development but also to the geopolitical, economic, and cultural progress of participating countries.

Core strategic principles

To achieve its goals, the project is based on several strategic principles:

1. Coordinated Investments – developing multimodal and smart transport and storage infrastructure.
2. Development of Last-Mile Connections – optimizing transport to efficiently reach the final consumer.
3. Low-Emission Logistics – reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability.
4. Cross-Sector Cooperation – integrating business, academia, public sector, and civil society for sustainable results.

Project objectives and impacts

The project aims to create a comprehensive and sustainable logistics ecosystem, strengthening SMEs, promoting digitalization, and improving international market access for companies in the ADRION region. Close collaboration between businesses, academia, and public institutions is expected to lay the foundations for a modern, competitive, and integrated logistics sector.

At the same time, the initiative will indirectly impact the region’s geopolitical, economic, and cultural development by increasing political stability, economic competitiveness, and professional and cultural exchange among participating countries. This combination of logistics strategy with broader regional goals makes Intercluster a key project for coordinated and long-term development in the ADRION area.

In the second phase of the project, the Early Warning System (EWS) and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programs will continue to be implemented in 12 vocational education and training schools in the regions of Tirana, Vlora, and Shkodra in Albania. This phase aims to consolidate and expand the results achieved in the first phase by sustainably reducing dropout rates and addressing challenges related to youth who are Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET).

The project will focus on building the capacities of teaching staff and support structures through advanced training and continuous mentoring on the implementation of EWS and SEL. The training of 250 teachers and education staff is planned and continuation of work to develop inclusive strategies to support students at risk, as well as to design individualized dropout prevention plans.

Another focus of the second phase is strengthening institutional ownership and sustainability of interventions through small grants to schools, for the implementation of community-based dropout prevention projects, grounded in the needs and ideas of the school communities.

The implementation of the Early Warning System and Social Emotional Learning programs strengthens schools’ capacities to identify and support students at risk by creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. This intervention responds to the need for a more sustainable vocational education system, closely linked to the needs of the labor market and society.

This project is implemented in close collaboration with key institutional actors such as the National Agency for Vocational Education and Training (NAVETQ) and the National Agency for Vocational Education (AKPA).

Expected Results:

• Training and mentoring over 250 education staff on EWS and SEL
• Development of individualized dropout prevention plans for students at risk
• Implementation of inclusive strategies to support students at risk
• Integration of EWS into schools’ self-evaluation and accreditation processes
• Strengthening institutional cooperation with NAES, NAVETQ, and other stakeholders
• Provision of small grants to schools for implementing community projects

Beneficiaries:

• Over 250 trained and mentored education staff (general and vocational teachers, psychologists, social workers, school leaders)
• VET students at risk of dropping out, involved in individual plans and support activities
• Public institutions (NAES, NAVETQ) with strengthened capacities to integrate EWS/SEL in the system

Documents developed to support the project:

• Training curricula for EWS and SEL
• Training and implementation manual for the system
• Tools for self-monitoring and quality assessment of implementation in schools
• Model packages for school projects focusing on EWS and SEL
• Financial mechanism for distributing small grants

Expected achievements:

• Development of a functional and transferable model for implementing EWS and SEL in vocational education
• Creation of sustainable structures within schools to identify and support students at risk of dropping out
• Increased attendance and improved emotional and academic well-being of youth in vocational schools
• Development of institutional cooperation with coordinated approaches between schools and national vocational education authorities

The training includes the development of a practical and easy-to-implement approach for the preparation and assessment of mentors, an introductory training for 15 VET teachers as lead instructors, and the certification of 40 mentors from participating companies. This intervention aims to contribute to the development of a national model for in-company mentor training, as an integral part of the dual VET system in Albania.

The in-company mentor preparation program for dual VET in Albania, implemented by the Center for Competitive Skills, is supported by the Regional Challenge Fund — an instrument of the Western Balkans 6 Chamber Investment Forum (WB6-CIF) — with the goal of fostering cooperation between the vocational education system and the private sector in the region.

Duration: March – April 2025

The objective of this program is to strengthen the work-based learning component of dual vocational education in Albania through the training and certification of in-company mentors and the development of a sustainable training model based on strong cooperation between education and business.

Expected outcomes of the training include:

The development of a pragmatic and easy-to-implement approach for training and assessing in-company mentors, covering the modules and learning outcomes defined in the official curriculum of December 2024 (Code: PK-Y-3-24);

The formation of a group of 15 VET teachers as mentor trainers, capable of expanding and sustaining mentor training within companies;

The training and certification of 40 qualified in-company mentors, selected from partner companies participating in the dual VET pilot during the 2024/2025 academic year;

The collection and documentation of lessons learned from the implementation of this training measure, along with concrete recommendations for improving and scaling the mentor training model, with the aim of integrating it as a core component of the national dual VET system in Albania.

Why is this project important?

This project plays a critical role in improving the alignment between vocational education and the real needs of the labor market in Albania. By training and certifying in-company mentors, it strengthens the practical element of dual education, helping young people acquire relevant skills and hands-on experience. The initiative also creates stronger opportunities for sustainable employment and supports capacity development among companies and educational institutions, contributing to the country’s broader economic and social development.

Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through essential Skills implemented by the Center for Competitive Skills in cooperation with the Municipality of Tirana is within the framework of the EU project on Labour Market Inclusion funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP Albania, the Swedish Public Employment Service and the Albanian Foundation for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (FSHDPAK) in partnership with the National Agency for Employment and Skills.

Project purpose

To empower individuals who face difficulties in entering the labor market, by providing them with tailored training for the development of basic skills and support for further inclusion in education, vocational training and employment.

Period: March 2025 – May 2026 (15 months)

Groups benefiting from the project

• NEET youth (15-29 years old, not in employment, education or training): 115 people (80 in Tirana and 35 in Shkodra)
• Unemployed young mothers: 20 people (14 in Tirana and 6 in Shkodra)
• Beneficiaries of economic aid: 60 people (42 in Tirana and 18 in Shkodra)
• Persons with disabilities (PWD): 5 people (4 in Tirana and 1 in Shkodra)

Number of beneficiaries: 200 people (140 in Tirana and 60 in Shkodra)

What does the project offer?

• Training in basic literacy, mathematics and digital skills
• Psychosocial support and individual counseling
• Workshop for developing soft skills
• Career guidance and assistance with enrollment in part-time education and transition to the labor market

Expected results

• 200 beneficiaries will receive psychosocial support and career guidance, of which 140 in Tirana and 60 in Shkodra.
• 200 beneficiaries will complete basic skills training (140 in Tirana and 60 in Shkodra)
• national model will be prepared that can be replicated in other cities in Albania.
• Enrollment in part-time basic education will be encouraged for those who have the potential to continue their education.
• Participants are expected to engage in vocational training or enter the job market within 6 months of completing the program, as a result of the improved skills and self-confidence gained during the project.

Why is this project important?

Albania is facing a high level of youth out of education and employment. This project directly addresses the lack of basic skills, self-confidence and orientation for a more secure professional future. It also creates bridges of cooperation between local and central institutions, with the aim of building a sustainable and appropriate model for communities in need.

How will it be accomplished?

The project implementation will take place in three training cycles , each lasting three to four months . Participants will be divided into small groups of 10-14 people (about 6 groups/cycle), enabling a more focused learning process and tailored to individual needs. The trainings, based on the SCUL program , will be held three times a week in community spaces in Tirana and Shkodra, offering an accessible and inclusive environment. To strengthen the learning process and increase flexibility, the trainings will be complemented by distance learning through the SchoolMe digital platform , which allows participants to continue their development even outside of training hours.

initially assessed to determine their level in reading, mathematics and technology, and then will follow a program tailored to their needs. In parallel, psychosocial counseling and career guidance sessions will be offered , led by trained psychologists and mentors, to address emotional barriers and help participants build a realistic plan towards education or employment.

This approach aims not only to improve the employability and social inclusion of beneficiaries, but also to strengthen the capacities of local and central institutions to support these groups in a sustainable and repeatable manner.

June 19, 2025

Transnational Workshop of the INTERCLUSTER Project Successfully Held Online

On Wednesday, 19 June 2025, partners and stakeholders from across the Adriatic-Ionian region came together online for a Transnational Workshop organized within the framework of the INTERCLUSTER project, which is co-funded by the Interreg IPA ADRION 2021–2027 Programme and supported by various regional stakeholders.

The event, hosted by the Slovenian Logistic Association, provided a platform for cross-border dialogue on modernizing the logistics sector and laying the groundwork for a new Smart & Sustainable Macro-Regional Cluster.

The workshop began with a welcoming speech and agenda presentation by the Slovenian Logistics Association, followed by a round of self-introductions from all participants. A concise presentation of the INTERCLUSTER project was delivered by the Preveza Chamber, highlighting the project’s goals of fostering innovation, sustainability, and cross-sectoral collaboration in logistics.

One of the focal points of the event was the presentation by the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, which introduced the Strategy for the Development and Modernization of the Logistics Sector in the Adrion Region. The presentation sparked a lively discussion, coordinated by the Slovenian Logistics Association, focusing on the differences in logistics challenges and needs between EU and non-EU countries in the region.

The concept of the under-establishment Adrion cross-sectoral macro-regional cluster in smart logistics, also presented by the Preveza Chamber, was discussed as a key step toward deeper regional cooperation. The workshop concluded with a summary of outcomes and next steps.

Stakeholders were also invited to express their interest in joining the project, with many acknowledging the importance of enhanced cooperation between research centres, public authorities, and private companies.

The INTERCLUSTER project aims to overcome the fragmented cluster landscape in the region by developing and testing innovative solutions that support:

• Green and digital transformation of logistics;
• Introduction of innovation and policy instruments to strengthen regional cooperation;
• Development of short and resilient supply chains.

The workshop marked an important milestone in advancing dialogue and cooperation toward a smarter, greener, and more connected logistics future for the Adrion region.

For more information about the INTERCLUSTER project, please contact:
info@competitiveskills.org or visit the ADRION programme website.

Subject: Call for Interest for the purchase of tablets within the framework of the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”

Project reference: “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”, Center for Competitive Skills, Municipality of Tirana, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP Albania, the Swedish Public Employment Service and the Albanian Foundation for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (FSHDPAK), in partnership with the National Employment and Skills Agency (AKPA).

Within the framework of the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”, the Center for Competitive Skills (English: Centre for Competitive Skills ) announces the call for the purchase of tablets, as detailed below:

Mid-range tablets, with the following minimum specifications:

RAM: 4 GB

Internal storage: 64 GB

Display: between 10 and 11 inches

Processor: mid-level (e.g., quad-core or octa-core, suitable for running educational applications)

Required quantity: 20 units

Application procedures:

Applications must be in Albanian or English and contain the financial offer (A list of unit prices for each item (with and without VAT)). Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications to the email address : info@competitiveskills.org , or to the offices of the organization, where the offer should be placed in a sealed envelope, specifying:

1. Name of interested applicant
2. Address of the interested applicant;
3. The words “Not to be opened before the tender bid opening phase”

for the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills” , at the following address:

CENTER FOR COMPETITIVE SKILLS

Address: “Shyqyri Bërxolli” Street, Aurora Palace, 7th floor, ap.28, Tirana, Albania

Applications are accepted until 30.05.2025, by 15:00. Only applications received within this deadline will be considered.

For more information on the full tender dossier as well as the requirements and deadlines for the duration of the contract, refer to the Terms of Reference published here on the website, or request more complete information about the tender dossier at the following email address: info@competitiveskills.org

Subject: Call for Interest for poster printing within the framework of the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”

Project reference: “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”, Center for Competitive Skills, Municipality of Tirana, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP Albania, the Swedish Public Employment Service and the Albanian Foundation for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (FSHDPAK), in partnership with the National Employment and Skills Agency (AKPA).

Within the framework of the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”, the Center for Competitive Skills (English: Centre for Competitive Skills ) announces the call for the printing of posters for the period May 2025 – May 2026, as detailed below:

Poster printing is required, according to the following specifications:

• Quantity: 22 pieces
• Poster dimensions: 50 x 70 cm

Application procedures:

Applications must be in Albanian or English and contain the financial offer (A list of unit prices for each item (with and without VAT)). Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications to the email address : info@competitiveskills.org , or to the offices of the organization, where the offer should be placed in a sealed envelope, specifying:

1. Name of interested applicant
2. Address of the interested applicant;
3. The words “Not to be opened before the tender bid opening phase”

for the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills” , at the following address:

CENTER FOR COMPETITIVE SKILLS

Address: “Shyqyri Bërxolli” Street, Aurora Palace, 7th floor, ap.28, Tirana, Albania

Applications are accepted until 19.05.2025, by 15:00. Only applications received within this deadline will be considered.

For more information on the full tender dossier as well as the requirements and deadlines for the duration of the contract, refer to the Terms of Reference published here on the website, or request more complete information about the tender dossier at the following email address: info@competitiveskills.org .

Subject: Call for Interest for banner printing within the framework of the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”

Project reference: “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”, Center for Competitive Skills, Municipality of Tirana, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP Albania, the Swedish Public Employment Service and the Albanian Foundation for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (FSHDPAK), in partnership with the National Employment and Skills Agency (AKPA).

Within the framework of the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”, the Center for Competitive Skills (English: Centre for Competitive Skills ) announces the call for the printing of banners for the period May 2025 – May 2026, as detailed below:

Banner printing is required, according to the following specifications:

• Quantity: 3 pieces
• Banner dimensions: 85 x 200 cm
• Material type: PVC / Roll-up

Application procedures:

Applications must be in Albanian or English and contain the financial offer (A list of unit prices for each item (with and without VAT)). Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications to the email address : info@competitiveskills.org , or to the offices of the organization, where the offer should be placed in a sealed envelope, specifying:

1. Name of interested applicant
2. Address of the interested applicant;
3. The words “Not to be opened before the tender bid opening phase”

for the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills” , at the following address:

CENTER FOR COMPETITIVE SKILLS

Address: “Shyqyri Bërxolli” Street, Aurora Palace, 7th floor, ap.28, Tirana, Albania

Applications are accepted until 19.05.2025, by 15:00. Only applications received within this deadline will be considered.

For more information on the full tender dossier as well as the requirements and deadlines for the duration of the contract, refer to the Terms of Reference published here on the website, or request more complete information about the tender dossier at the following email address: info@competitiveskills.org .

Subject: Call for Interest for the Provision of Catering Services within the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”

Project Reference: “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills”, Centre for Competitive Skills, Municipality of Tirana, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP Albania, the Swedish Public Employment Service, and the Albanian Foundation for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (FSHDPAK), in partnership with the National Employment and Skills Agency (ANES).

Within the framework of the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills,” the Centre for Competitive Skills announces the call for the provision of catering services (coffee break & lunch) for the period May – December 2025, for the following training and workshop activities:

• 144 total participants over 6 days of training and workshop for teachers (24 teachers x 6 days)
• 30 total participants over 3 days of training for psychologists and social workers (10 participants x 3 days)

Application Procedures:

Applications must be submitted in either Albanian or English and include the financial offer. Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications via email to: info@competitiveskills.org, or deliver them to the organization’s offices, where the offer should be placed in a sealed envelope with the following details:

1. Name of the interested applicant
2. Address of the interested applicant
3. The words “Do not open before the tender opening phase”

for the project “Foundations for Success: Empowering Adults through Basic Skills” to the following address:

CENTRE FOR COMPETITIVE SKILLS

Address: “Shyqyri Bërxolli” Street, Aurora Building, 7th floor, apt. 28, Tirana, Albania

Applications will be accepted until 07.05.2025, by 15:00. Only applications received within this deadline will be considered.

For further information about the full tender file as well as the requirements and deadlines for the contract duration, please refer to the Terms of Reference published here on the website or request more detailed information about the tender file at the following email address: info@competitiveskills.org.