The interaction between vocational education and the real needs of the economy is one of the key elements for the sustainable development of the labor market. At a time when businesses increasingly face challenges in finding qualified workforce, the role of the private sector in shaping vocational education becomes essential. In this context, the American Chamber of Commerce has undertaken an initiative to inform its business community about an important opportunity to strengthen cooperation between businesses and vocational education institutions in Albania.
Current legislation foresees that vocational schools operate with Governing Boards, where the representation of the private sector is an integral part of the decision-making structure.
Through this initiative, AmCham members have the opportunity to directly contribute to the strategic direction of these institutions by bringing the perspective of the business community into curriculum development and the preparation of future professionals. The engagement of businesses in these structures represents a concrete step toward bridging the gap between education and the labor market and creating a stronger ecosystem for economic development.
Why is this engagement important?
- The opportunity to improve curricula so they better reflect the real needs of economic sectors
- Building sustainable bridges between schools and businesses
- Contributing practical expertise to the development of a new generation of professionals prepared for the labor market
Criteria for Private Sector Representatives
According to the law, the Governing Board is the body responsible for strategic leadership, planning, and resource allocation within the institution. It includes two representatives from the private sector connected to the school’s professional profile, while the Chair of the Board is selected from among the business representatives. This means that the role of the private sector is not merely consultative but has a real impact on the institution’s strategic orientation.
Interested members may express their willingness to apply for representation on these boards in accordance with the sector in which they operate and based on the following criteria:
- Represent a business operating in the sector relevant to the school’s profile
- Have professional experience and a strong reputation in the relevant field
- Have no conflict of interest with the institution
- Demonstrate the ability to contribute to the strategic development and governance of the institution
The mandate and representation are formalized through an official appointment by the respective institution.
How to Apply for Participation in Governing Boards
The application process includes:
- Submission of a formal expression of interest from the business
- Providing documentation demonstrating:
- The legal status of the company
- The link between the company’s activity and the school’s profile
- The CV of the proposed representative
The evaluation and formalization of representation are carried out according to the procedures defined by the responsible authority for Vocational Education and Training (VET).
The American Chamber of Commerce encourages its members to take part in this initiative, which represents an investment in the future of human capital and the development of a competitive labor market.
A list of vocational secondary schools across the country, along with their profiles and programs, can be found at the following link: Arsimi dhe Formimi Profesional