Investing in Teachers, Shaping Kosovo's Future: More Than Two Decades of Support for Education

International Teachers' Day is a moment to recognise the dedication and professionalism of teachers across Kosovo and the central role they play in shaping the future of the country.

Better teaching in basic education

Strong education starts in the classroom. For this reason, a key focus of German Development Cooperation in Kosovo has been to strengthen teachers' professional skills and improve the quality of teaching and learning in basic education.

More than 4,500 teachers in basic education took part in training modules on teaching mathematics, natural sciences and student assessment. Most of them attended several courses over time, which allowed them to build their skills step by step and apply new approaches in their daily work.

The results are visible in the classroom. Evaluations of the CDBE support found that teachers were applying a large share of the knowledge and skills they gained in their teaching. This means that the training did not stay on paper. It changed how lessons are taught and how students learn.

Preparing young people for a changing world of work

The same approach has guided GIZ's work in vocational education and training and employment promotion. As Kosovo's economy changes, young people need skills that match the needs of employers and the green and digital transition. Teachers are key to making this happen.

Around 750 vocational teachers have strengthened their skills in career education, digitalisation, new technologies, green skills and modern teaching methods. With these skills, they help students make better decisions about their future careers and prepare them for jobs in growing sectors.

Dual VET: connecting school and workplace

Today, this work continues through Dual Vocational Education and Training (Dual VET). In this model, students spend a large part of their training in companies, while teachers and company instructors work together so that learning at school and learning at work support each other.

So far, 180 vocational teachers have been trained in Dual VET methods. Of these, 32 have been certified as Trainers of Trainers. This is an important step for the long term: these teachers now train their colleagues, which builds lasting training capacity within Kosovo's vocational education system and makes the results sustainable beyond project support.

Why teachers' development matters today

Digitalisation, the green transition and new labour market demands are changing what students need to learn and how teachers need to teach. Teachers need regular opportunities to update their technical knowledge, improve their teaching methods and exchange experience with colleagues and with industry.

At the same time, the role of teachers goes far beyond the curriculum. They inspire young people, recognise their potential, guide them in decisions about their future and help them build the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to take an active part in society and the economy.

Behind every number is a teacher who invested time in learning, improved their practice and brought new knowledge back to their students.

A lesson from two decades of cooperation

After more than twenty years of working with Kosovo's education institutions and partners, one lesson is clear: lasting improvements in education depend on teachers who are valued, supported and given the chance to keep learning.

On International Teachers' Day, the dedication of teachers across Kosovo and their daily contribution to the country's children, young people and future deserve recognition. Investing in teachers means investing in the future of Kosovo.

This work is implemented by GIZ Kosovo on behalf of the German Government, supporting the quality of basic education, vocational education and training, and Dual VET in Kosovo.