Tirana, June 11, 2025 — Yesterday marked a milestone moment as we celebrated the culmination of the RisiAlbania project, a 12-year journey of innovation, collaboration, and transformation. Initiated by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by Helvetas and Partners Albania for Change and Development, the project has worked tirelessly to shape a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future for Albania.

The event, held at the Tirana International Hotel, brought together a vibrant mix of public institutions, private sector leaders, youth voices, and development partners. It was a moment to reflect on achievements, share lessons learned, and look ahead to the future. Among the distinguished speakers, H.E. Ruth Huber, Ambassador of Switzerland, reflected on the enduring Swiss-Albanian partnership and its role in private sector development. Deputy Minister Olta Manajani emphasized the importance of innovation and standards in Albania’s economic growth. Klevis Hysa, General Director of NAES, highlighted the modernization of employment services and the role of Swiss support in this transformation. Matthias Herr from Helvetas shared insights on knowledge brokering and sustainable development, reinforcing the importance of long-term collaboration.

The heart of the event was the Impact TedEx-style session, where inspiring individuals shared their stories of change. Kristina Fidhi from Visit Gjirokastra spoke passionately about sustainable tourism and community empowerment. Ejvis Gishti Shehi, Ph.D., representing NAVETQ, emphasized the need to align vocational education with labor market demands. Gladiola Dona shared her personal journey and the lessons she learned while delivering quality training for in-demand skills in the tourism sector. Klodiana Balla, a key figure in the National Technical Working Group for Global G.A.P., discussed her experience working with businesses and farmers to implement agribusiness standards and improve export readiness. Era Gjata from the National Cyber Security Authority highlighted the importance of cybersecurity and digital safety in today’s economy. Adela Çabej from the Municipality of Berat brought contagious enthusiasm as she spoke about career guidance as a vital community service.

In the closing session, Ermira Shyti and Gramos Osmani distilled the event’s key messages. They emphasized that standards are game changers for sustainable growth, that youth employment thrives when supported by decent jobs and career guidance, and that public-private collaboration is essential for long-term impact.

Perhaps the most profound success of RisiAlbania lies in the mindset shift it has helped foster. Today, young Albanians are not just job seekers—they are career shapers, ready to thrive in a green, digital, and EU-aligned economy. This transformation is a testament to the power of partnership, vision, and perseverance.