As part of the GIZ programme Sustainable Economic Development and Employment Promotion (SEDEP) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a delegation of project partners took part in a study visit to Kosovo from 23 to 27 November 2025. The visit aimed to strengthen collaboration with leading institutions and organisations in Kosovo and gain insight into practical initiatives that support green transition, digitalisation, vocational education and training (VET), and private-sector development.
A major focus was placed on Kosovo’s innovation and technology ecosystem, particularly organisations that drive digital transformation, entrepreneurship and sector development. The delegation engaged with the Kosovo ICT Association (STIKK), discussing how the association supports companies, improves skills development and strengthens policy dialogue in the digital sector. At the Innovation Centre Kosovo (ICK), partners learned more about incubation services, start-up acceleration and the centre’s role in connecting education with industry. These exchanges highlighted similarities in the challenges faced by SMEs in both economies and showed how structured ecosystem support can accelerate digital skills and competitiveness.
The visit also included a programme at the Innovation and Training Park (ITP) Prizren, a regional hub jointly established by the Governments of Germany and Kosovo. Meetings with the ITP management team, the Digital Transformation Center and partners from the DIG-4K European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) provided an overview of how a collaborative model can support innovation, skills development and digital transformation. The delegation was introduced to practical examples of SME support, applied learning environments and technology-oriented services that encourage companies to adopt more sustainable and modern business practices. The discussions further highlighted the importance of creating spaces where education, technology and business development operate together, demonstrating how such integrated environments can accelerate both green and digital transition efforts.
During the visit, the delegation also met with several institutions shaping Kosovo’s economic reforms, including GIZ projects working on employment promotion and EU integration, private-sector representatives and government bodies engaged in digital governance and SME support. These meetings provided an overview of Kosovo’s approach to aligning labour market policies, VET reforms and public administration with emerging EU standards.
Meetings with both the Kosovo Chamber of Commerce and the German-Kosovar Business Association (OEGJK-KDWV) highlighted the important role chambers play in supporting SMEs, strengthening export competitiveness and facilitating cooperation with European markets. The exchanges showed that chambers across the region share similar priorities in guiding companies through green and digital transition processes while fostering stronger regional economic ties.
In addition to innovation-focused discussions, the delegation explored Kosovo’s ongoing reforms in VET, where efforts to modernise dual training systems and improve responsiveness to labour market needs closely align with SEDEP’s priorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Across all discussions, partners emphasised the value of regional cooperation and shared learning. Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina face similar development priorities, from strengthening SMEs and improving workforce skills to preparing economies for EU-aligned green and digital requirements. The study visit demonstrated how exchanging practical experiences can inspire new approaches and support ongoing SEDEP activities. The insights gathered throughout the visit will contribute to SEDEP’s work on economic resilience, sustainable business support and the transition of institutions and companies towards greener and more digital business models.
The engagement in Kosovo also reinforced the importance of building strong connections across the Western Balkans, where collaboration and shared experience can accelerate progress for the entire region.
