By: Mikela Gjapi, Lutjona Lula, Gramos Osmani

The work environment in Albania, influenced by global transformations and technological advancements, is undergoing significant changes. European Commission asseses that nearly two-thirds (63%) of small and medium-sized businesses in the EU reported difficulties in finding the talent they need due to evolving skill requirements. The European Commission has identified 42 occupations with significant skill shortages, highlighting the impact of technological advancements on the labor market, with agriculture being one of them.

Attracting Youth to Agribusiness

In Albania, according to ILOSTAT, agriculture accounts for 36.4%of employment, with 41.6% of those employed in the sector being women. However, the sector often provides short-term contracts, and while favorable market conditions can lead to salary increases, better salaries alone are not enough to mitigate high turnover rates. Youth generally do not consider agribusiness a viable sector for employment, although mechanization and new technologies offer opportunities for continuous learning and skill acquisition. Positive practices, such as senior staff mentoring junior employees, exist but are not widespread. The demanding working environment, long hours, and high turnover rates are exacerbated by workers not being involved in decision-making processes.

Implementing FarmForce Training

In response to these challenges, skills development has become a critical focus. Helvetas, through the RisiAlbania project, contributes significantly to this area. For instance, the upcoming Skills Sector Committees to be established by the National Agency for Vocational Education, Training and Qualifications (NAVETQ) will play a crucial role. These committees will bring the voice of the private sector to institutions responsible for curriculum development in vocational education and training (VET), ensuring that new and updated skills are aligned with market needs.

Supporting Women in Agribusiness

A positive example is the case of two sisters from Durresi, Albania, Ilira Zere and Silva Batalli. In a time when many families invest in their children becoming doctors, lawyers, and other professionals, avoiding work in agriculture, Ilira and Silva chose a different path. Ilira, a former banker, decided to work alongside her father by running the finance department and contributing to human resource management at the Albanian Herb company. Silva, with extensive experience in the ICT sector, leads marketing and projects in the same company.

Thanks to their collaboration with RisiAlbania, Albanian Herb implemented the FarmForce system, a traceability and quality management system for oregano, for the first time in Albania. This system has significantly increased farmers' incomes by more than 20% in value since its implementation in 2023. By ensuring traceability and quality assurance, Albanian Herb, along with international partners like Kutas Turkey and McCormick, aims to promote Albanian oregano as a high-quality product in the U.S. market.

Ilira and Silva's dedication to supporting women in agriculture is evident, with 70% of the management staff at Albanian Herb company being women. They work tirelessly to improve the conditions for women engaged in business and for the many women who run their farms in the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants. Ilira believes that women are crucial to the success of their business because they bring unique perspectives and skills that enhance productivity and innovation. To support women, they have implemented training programs, flexible working hours, and mentorship opportunities, which have resulted in increased job satisfaction and retention.

Retaining a skilled workforce in Albania hinges on addressing structural barriers, fostering a supportive working environment that values professional growth, offers competitive compensation, and promotes a culture of inclusivity and opportunity. The inspiring Albanian Herb demonstrates that with goodwill, step-by-step investment in human resource development, and improved working conditions, significant progress can be made in enhancing job quality and opportunities within the sector.

If you are interested to learn more on decent work aspects in Albania’s tourism, agribusiness and ICT sectors, please check our publication: TOWARDS MORE AND BETTER JOBS IN ALBANIA