KOSOVO — Working closely with Kosovo’s young women and men, through initiatives such as skills development and on-the-job training programs, the United Nations Development Program has been key to sustainable integration into the job market.

In 2023, the 'Cultural Heritage as a Driver for Economic Revival of Janjevë/Janjevo' project, implemented by the United Nations Development Program, included a six-month on-the-job training for six young men of different communities in woodwork and carpentry. Due to the interest from the trainees to continue the training, and the company's need for employees, the training was extended for another six months, until May 2024.

Ten months ago, Arsim Gashi, a 32-year-old craftsman, began his journey at ‘Woodtec Company’ in Janjevë/Janjevo, learning to build a wooden house from scratch. As an assistant craftsman, he oversaw the house's construction process, ensuring everything went according to plan.

Now, as the house is nearly completed and ready for export. Gashi reflects on his professional growth and acquired skills. "I've always been interested in working with wood, but I didn't realize how much discipline it requires to learn the entire process. Today, I have the skills to build a house from beginning to end," says Arsim.

Remzi Shabani, another young man from Janjevë/Janjevo, joined the training program with no prior skills in woodwork. Through this opportunity, he fulfilled his wish to learn this unique profession through hands-on practice in carpentry. "A few weeks ago, I was in Germany with colleagues from the company to deliver and assemble a house. It's interesting how after only 10 months of my engagement here, I can assemble a house." says Shabani.

The trainee's engagement and dedication are continuously praised by Nexhmedin Kryeziu, a master carpenter, who has been with these men from day one as their trainer. He highlights their commitment to work and the respect they show to one another.

“They had to learn everything from scratch, including the final assembling of the houses, and look at them now - handling almost everything independently” elaborates Kryeziu. “They remind me of the old times when I was younger and dedicated to learning every detail of this craft. Myself, I began working in the woodwork industry at my father's home furniture business when I was only 18." 

Erand Konxheli, a diligent young man with aspirations for the future, says: "Everything is going great; I'm learning new things and improving every day. My ultimate goal is to establish my venture where I can specialize in building small wooden houses," expressing his enthusiasm to leverage his skills into a profitable business.

As UNDP Kosovo celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, it reflects on the significant impact it has had over the years in supporting Kosovo inhabitants through many development programs and initiatives. With special focus, UNDP has been empowering countless young men and women to enter the labor market through such skill-building initiatives.