On 4 November 2021, the Steering Committee of the project Strengthening Democratic Citizenship Education in Albania met in a hybrid format in Tirana and online to discuss the current status of activities and the way forward.
The progress achieved by the project was appreciated by the beneficiary and the stakeholders. In particular, Ms. Zamira Gjini, General Director for Policies and Development of Education and Sport from the Ministry of Education and Sport highlighted some of the key project achievements, including specific support to the drafting process of the recently adopted National Education Strategy (2021 -2026), capacity-building activities in the project´s pilot schools and activities towards more inclusive and democratic schools.
“I believe that this cooperation has served as an impetus to further strengthen education for democratic citizenship and human rights. We express our willingness and readiness to continue our cooperation with the Council of Europe to enhance the quality of education in our schools in order to jointly establish an effective model for the development of democratic culture and competences in schools, the implementation of policies and practices on democratic governance and enabling inclusive environment for all students,” said Ms Gjini.
Among other issues discussed were the project´s next steps which will focus on strengthening cooperation with the Parent Councils and Student Governments. The importance of furthering co-operation with the Quality Assurance Agency for Pre-university Education, introducing on-line teaching and learning tools based on the Education Department’s LEMON learning modules, introducing Labs for Democratic Culture as well as activities with schools and students on environment protection were also discussed.
The Steering Committee approved the progress report, took note of the updated risk register as well as approved the indicative workplan for the next implementation period and expressed their strong support in continuing and adapting project activities to ensure that they are relevant and provide concrete support for lasting change for the citizens of Albania. The Steering Committee includes representatives from the Ministry of Education and Sport, the Swedish Embassy in Albania, the Agency for Quality Assurance in Pre-university Education, the General Directorates of Pre-university Education, the Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination, the People’s Advocate (Ombudsperson) Parent Council, Student Parliament and civil society.
The project “Strengthening Democratic Citizenship Education in Albania” is implemented by the Council of Europe and funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency.
