Preparing young people professionally—in alignment with the actual needs of the labor market—is the key to sustainable employment and economic development in our country.
Today, I attended the “Roots & Flavors: Chef’s Day 2026” event, held at “Lura Agrotourism” to mark International Chefs Day. The event was organized as part of the “Serve Your Future” campaign and the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) HoReCa Kosovo project.
During the event, I—along with the Italian Ambassador to Kosovo, Mr. Maurizio Antonini; the ILO Coordinator for Kosovo, Mr. Blerim Murtezi; as well as institutional representatives, gastronomy professionals, and young people—discussed the importance of vocational training for the development of the gastronomy and hospitality sector.
For 2027, we have planned the development of five short-term vocational curricula covering the roles of chef, assistant chef, waiter, bartender, and receptionist. Furthermore, we have planned for the training of at least 10 instructors from Vocational Training Centers, as well as the piloting of workplace-based learning in four vocational education and training institutions, including one Vocational Training Center.
Through these measures, we aim to strengthen Vocational Training Centers and enable young people to acquire the skills and practical experience demanded by businesses, thereby forging a stronger link between vocational training and employment.
I would like to thank the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Embassy of Italy in Kosovo, and all our partners for their ongoing support in advancing our policies on employment and vocational training.
Investing in the skills of young people is an investment in Kosovo’s economic future.
