Supporting the most vulnerable and fostering access to education and employment opportunities in Albania

Supporting the most vulnerable and fostering access to education and employment opportunities in Albania

Human Welfare
& Rights

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Albania, a country rich in history and cultural heritage, has made remarkable progress in its economic and social development. However, many challenges persist, hindering equal opportunities for all citizens. Economic decline, youth emigration, and social exclusion continue to impact access to education, employment, and essential services, particularly for disadvantaged communities.

As part of the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation’s commitment to promoting human dignity and social inclusion in 2024, the Foundation extended its support to four impactful projects in Albania, focusing on children, youth, Roma communities, and people with disabilities. By investing in education, vocational training, and community development, these initiatives aim to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and create sustainable opportunities for a brighter future.

  • EMPOWERING DISADVANTAGED YOUTH AND ROMA COMMUNITIES IN FIER

    Grantee: Qendra Sociale Murialdo
    Location: Fier, Albania, Europe
    Grant Cycle: 2024-2025
    Type of Grant: one-year program support, Human Welfare & Rights
    Website: albania.murialdo.org

    For over two decades, Qendra Sociale Murialdo has worked in Fier, Albania, offering vocational education, training, and protection for vulnerable groups, including the Roma community and youth returning from migration. Fier, one of Albania’s industrial hubs, has faced economic downturns, youth emigration, and discrimination affecting Roma children’s education and employment opportunities. The Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation (NaEPF) has always been deeply committed to promoting basic human rights such as access to education and equal employment opportunities.

    In 2024, the NaEPF supported Qendra Sociale Murialdo in its mission to enhance the vocational skills and employability of marginalized communities in Albania, including young people and the Roma community. Over a 12-month period, high-quality training programs will be conducted in in-demand fields such as pastry, plumbing, mechanics, electronics, and electro-mechanics, alongside job placement services, internships, and apprenticeships with local businesses. Furthermore, the project will also facilitate access to education for Roma children by offering transportation services, aiming to reduce dropout rates and promote social inclusion.

  • ENHANCING DIGITAL LEARNING AT FATHER PJETËR MESHKALLA COLLEGE

    Grantee: Father Pjetër Meshkalla College – Community of St. Francis Xavier
    Location: Shkodër, Albania, Europe
    Grant Cycle: 2024-2025
    Type of Grant: one-year program support, Human Welfare & Rights
    Website: meshkalla.edu.al

    Founded in 1877, Father Pjetër Meshkalla College is a Jesuit-run secondary school providing high-quality education to students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. With Albania facing a decline in student enrollment and high youth emigration, the school remains a pillar for families seeking academic excellence.

    In 2024, the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation (NaEPF) supported the College by equipping teachers with tablet devices to enhance classroom management and student engagement. Additionally, 30 partial scholarships have been awarded to students from low-income families, ensuring access to education despite financial barriers.

  • RESTORING THE SPORTS FIELD FOR YOUTH IN BERAT

    Grantee: “Ylli I Mëngjesit” School – Santa Lucia Filippini Educational Centre
    Location: Berat, Albania, Europe
    Grant Cycle: 2024-2025
    Type of Grant: one-year program support, Human Welfare & Rights

    Situated in Berat, a city known for its rich cultural heritage, the Santa Lucia Filippini Educational Centre serves local children, including those with disabilities, providing education and social support. However, limited infrastructural resources hinder physical activity and social development.

    In 2024, the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation (NaEPF) funded the renovation of the school’s sports field, creating a safe and inclusive space for physical education and recreational activities. This project aims to promote a healthy lifestyle and social inclusion for students and the wider community.

  • PROVIDING A SAFE HAVEN FOR VULNERABLE CHILDREN AND WOMEN IN VLORË

    Grantee: Shtëpia Rregulltare e Bashkësisë Instituti I Terciareve Françeskane Alkantarine
    Location: Vlorë, Albania
    Grant Cycle: 2024-2025
    Type of Grant: one-year program support, Human Welfare & Rights

    The Alcantarine Franciscan Sisters, active in Albania since 1991, provide essential services to women, children, and individuals with disabilities. In Babicë e Madhe, a village near Vlorë, many families struggle with poverty, domestic violence, and limited educational access.

    Thanks to the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation (NaEPF) support, the St. Francis Day Center will expand its educational and social services, offering programs aimed at reducing youth emigration, integrating children with disabilities, and promoting women’s empowerment through community-driven initiatives. Through these four strategic projects, the NaEPF reaffirms its commitment to education, social inclusion, and empowerment in Albania. By addressing urgent social challenges, fostering skills development, and ensuring equal access to opportunities, the NaEPF continues to play a pivotal role in improving the lives of Albania’s most vulnerable populations.

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