Deputy Minister of Education and Science, Përparim Kryeziu, took part in the closing event of the project “Empowering Vulnerable Communities in Kosovo through Better and Equal Access to the Labor Market”, organized by Save the Children Kosovo, in partnership with Syri i Vizionit and Nevo Koncepti, and funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA).

In his remarks, Deputy Minister Kryeziu emphasized that education remains the most powerful tool to break down barriers that prevent children and young people from realizing their potential. He highlighted that over the years, the central level has undertaken a series of policies to support children and youth from the Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian communities. These include support for early childhood education through the voucher program, facilitation of enrollment in secondary education (vocational schools and gymnasiums), annual scholarships for high school students and university students, reserved places in higher education, as well as financial support for NGOs running learning centers. He expressed confidence that these are the right policies and that the path is promising, while also acknowledging the setbacks, challenges, and work that lies ahead.

He added that the goal of the government and the ministry remains to ensure that social progress reaches every child, every family, and every part of the country. Alongside institutional efforts, he stressed the importance of the work of partners and cooperation with stakeholders. As one of these collaborations, he highlighted the project implemented by Save the Children with the support of the Austrian Development Agency, thanking both the organizations and the donor for their contribution and support.

Implemented from October 2023 to September 2026, the project contributed to improving access to education, vocational training, and employment for children and youth from the Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian communities. Key results include: 92 school dropouts returned to education; 207 students identified as at risk of dropping out received support to continue schooling; more than 500 vulnerable students benefited from education-related financial support; over 4,700 students participated in personal development and life skills programs; and more than 5,000 vocational education students engaged in career orientation activities. The project also strengthened the capacities of 24 schools and municipal teams to prevent and respond to school dropout.