The workshop on designing the “Volunteering at School” program was held on June 27, 2023, in Pristina. The workshop’s objective was to bring together stakeholders to discuss and develop an effective volunteering program tailored specifically for schools.
The workshop was organized by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports in Kosovo*, with the support of RYCO’s Local Branch Office in Kosovo and NGO TOKA.
The workshop started with a presentation on the current state of volunteering in schools, providing contextual information for the discussions to follow. Stakeholders present at the workshop, including UNICEF and the directors of schools from Skenderaj, had the opportunity to ask questions and engage in a dialogue, sharing their insights and experiences. The workshop then proceeded with a presentation on the successful “Art in School” program by the Chief of Cabinet at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Klodeta Krasniqi, which served as a model for inspiration and further discussions.
A basic model for volunteering in schools was introduced, highlighting key elements necessary for the success of a program. A draft pilot proposal was presented, and participants actively participated in a Q&A session to seek clarification and provide their feedback.
After a short break, participants were divided into groups to work collaboratively on defining the scope and target audience of the “Volunteering at School” program. They discussed various aspects of volunteer management, including training, supervision, and evaluation. Analysis of resources, limitations, and requirements for program implementation was conducted to ensure practicality and feasibility.
The workshop provided a platform for participants to gain a better understanding of the municipality’s educational landscape, including the number of high schools, students, teachers, businesses, and NGOs. These insights allowed for informed decision-making during the program’s development.
Throughout the workshop, participants actively engaged in discussions, sharing their expertise and suggestions. They identified “homework” tasks to be completed before the next workshop, ensuring progress and continuity in the program’s design.
During the concluding session, roles, responsibilities, and timelines were defined to assign tasks and establish a clear roadmap for program development and implementation. The workshop provided a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to exchange ideas, gather insights, and work collaboratively towards designing an effective “Volunteering at School” program. The active participation and engagement of participants laid a solid foundation for the successful development and implementation of the program, fostering a sense of ownership among stakeholders.
The collaborative efforts, discussions, and insights gathered during the workshop will contribute to the creation of a comprehensive program that benefits schools, students, and the community at large. Second day of this workshop is to take place in the upcoming weeks, whereas the program will start with the beginning of the school year.
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.
