From a Pilot Initiative to a National System
The period 2022–2026 represents a milestone in the development of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Kosovo. During these four years, Dual VET evolved from a pilot initiative involving four schools and approximately 90 students into a nationwide system encompassing 32 vocational schools, 16 occupational profiles, more than 2,300 students and hundreds of partner enterprises.
The development of the system has been characterized by close cooperation between public institutions, the private sector and international development partners, resulting in the establishment of a standardized model of Dual VET based on work-based learning and strong school-enterprise partnerships.
The Beginning of Dual VET (2022–2023)
The implementation of Dual VET in Kosovo started in 2022 with four pilot schools and four occupational profiles. During this initial phase, approximately 90 students participated in the programme, marking the beginning of a new approach to vocational education based on practical training in real enterprises.
In 2023, MESTI requested the support of GIZ and the GFA Consulting Group to develop a standardized Dual VET system for Kosovo. Under the leadership of Mr. Jürgen Kosemund and Mr. Driton Berisha, the foundations of the national Dual VET model were established.
Expansion and Development of the National Framework (2023–2024)
During 2023 and 2024, the system expanded significantly. A National Dual VET Framework, implementation guidelines, standard documentation and a unique curriculum development model were developed. Twelve working groups involving experts from the private sector and vocational schools contributed to the development of occupational curricula.
By the beginning of the 2023/2024 school year, Dual VET had expanded to 23 vocational schools, 12 occupational profiles and more than 1,000 students.
Consolidation of the System (2024–2025)
The 2024/2025 school year marked the consolidation phase of the system. Training programmes for Trainers of Trainers (ToTs) and Vocational Practice Teachers (VPTs) were developed, while the Assessment and Certification System and related guidelines were established for the first time.
An important milestone was reached in May and June 2025 when the first generation of Dual VET students graduated. A total of 88 students from the four pilot occupational profiles successfully completed the final examinations, marking the first implementation of a complete assessment and certification system in Kosovo.
Transformation into a National System (2025–2026)
By the beginning of the 2025/2026 school year, the Dual VET system had expanded to:
- 32 vocational schools;
- 18 municipalities;
- 16 occupational profiles;
- 142 Dual VET classes;
- more than 2,300 students;
- around 800 partner enterprises;
- over 450 company instructors.
For the first time, the assessment and certification process was organized on a national scale. During the period April–June 2026:
- 225 private sector examiners were trained and certified;
- 87 assessment commissions were established and approved by MESTI;
- 1,223 Grade 11 and Grade 12 students were supported and monitored during the examination process.
Building the Future
Despite the significant progress achieved during the period 2022–2026, the Dual VET system in Kosovo remains in a phase of consolidation and further development. Continued institutional, technical and financial support will be essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of the system and to further strengthen the link between education and labour market needs.
The experience gained over the last four years has demonstrated that strong cooperation among public institutions, the private sector and development partners can create a sustainable system that contributes not only to youth employability but also to the economic development and competitiveness of Kosovo.
Key Achievements (2022–2026)
- 32 vocational schools;
- 18 municipalities;
- 16 occupational profiles;
- 142 Dual VET classes;
- More than 2,300 students;
- Around 800 partner enterprises;
- 192 trained Vocational Practice Teachers;
- 32 Trainers of Trainers;
- 225 trained and certified private sector examiners;
- 87 assessment commissions established nationwide.
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History of the Development of Dual VET in Kosovo (2022–2026)
The complete publication provides a detailed overview of the development, expansion and consolidation of the Dual VET system in Kosovo during the period 2022–2026.
