From schools and scholarships to innovation and inclusivity, the EU is opening doors for students, teachers, and young professionals. Through comprehensive programmes that include facility reconstruction, better equipment, diverse methods, international opportunities, and training for various generations and social groups, EU-funded projects have been contributing to improving the quality of education in various aspects and promoting peacebuilding, exchange, and intercultural dialogue.

More than 2,500 students and academic staff studied at European universities through “Erasmus+” in 2023, and more than 10,000 in previous years, enhancing the skills and employability of young people while fostering equal opportunities.

Sixty-three schools have been rebuilt to EU standards following the earthquake with “EU4Schools” in 11 municipalities, improving the learning process and conditions for 24,529 children, students, and teachers.

Emphasising the principle of leaving no child behind and making education more accessible, “EU4InclusiveTeaching” has provided professional development for 15,000 teachers to adapt to diverse student needs, established 550 psycho-social service cabinets in schools, and transformed special schools for students with hearing and visual impairments.

As EU-funded programmes aim to make education modern and future-ready, “Horizon Europe” has opened the first European Institute of Innovation and Technology Community Hub, creating opportunities for local innovators across sectors.

Fostering the capacity of schools to develop quality projects by creating modern and innovative learning spaces, more than 300 students, 88 teachers, and 43 schools have participated in the “Super Schools Programme” exchanges in the Western Balkans over the past three years, supporting peacebuilding and reconciliation.

Meanwhile, last year, 500 Albanians aged 15-29 applied for education, jobs, and training at the National Agency for Employment and Skills, which, within the framework of the “EU4Youth” programme, enhances the capacity and effectiveness of VET systems in producing a skilled workforce.

The European Union has a strong commitment to inclusiveness, working to provide opportunities for all citizens. Through “Inclusive EduJobs”, we aim to improve school enrolment, attendance, and academic achievement through blended education, scholarships, and digital literacy programmes, developing incentive-based scholarships that boost academic performance and retention among Roma and Egyptian students.

Strengthening inclusive employment and skills development models for vulnerable groups in 19 municipalities across Albania, the “EU4Labour Market Inclusion Project” helps vulnerable groups, women, youth, and people with disabilities participate in flexible training programmes tailored to labour market needs, creating better job opportunities for everyone.