Humanistic Education for the Balkans
A partnership for humanistic education in the Albanian-speaking world – from early childhood to teacher training.
The Project
Humanistic Education for Albanian Children and Families
In Kosovo and across the Albanian-speaking world, there is an urgent need for alternative education models. The conventional school system faces major challenges – and families are looking for alternatives that nurture their children holistically.
In collaboration with ATOMI (Kosova IQ Initiative), experienced education leaders, and our advisory board member Kujtim Dobruna, we are developing a concrete concept for humanistic educational institutions in the region.
The vision: A network of humanistic schools and training centres across the entire Albanian-speaking world – starting with a pilot campus in Kosovo.
Regional Strategy
Albanian-Speaking Education Space
Kosovo
Pilot Campus
Albania
Phase 2
North Macedonia
Phase 3Presheva Valley
Long-termCooperation Models
Three Paths to Humanistic Education
Depending on capacities, goals, and local conditions, we recommend different starting models.
School Foundation (Pilot Campus)
Founding a humanistic school in Pristina or another Kosovar city. Complete pedagogical concept, IHEA accreditation, teacher training, and ongoing quality assurance.
Teacher Academy Kosovo
Building a regional training centre for humanistic pedagogy. Certification of local teachers who will later teach at their own or existing schools.
Early Childhood Education (Kindergarten)
Starting with a humanistic kindergarten (ages 3–6) as a low-threshold entry. Lower regulatory hurdles, faster implementation, strong parent engagement.
Language of Instruction
The humanistic concept is language-independent and can be implemented in any language.
Teacher training: English/German with translation into Albanian. Long-term fully in Albanian.
Launch Pathway
From Idea to Opening
Estimated total duration: 18–24 months
Letter of Intent & Due Diligence
2–3 monthsFormal letter of intent, mutual assessment of capacities, clarification of legal framework in Kosovo.
Curriculum Localisation
3–6 monthsTranslation and adaptation of curricula into Albanian. Coordination with the Kosovo Ministry of Education.
Teacher Training & Certification
6–12 monthsTraining of the first cohort of local teachers (6–12 months). Combination of online modules, on-site intensive weeks, and mentoring.
Site Selection & Setup
3–6 monthsSelection of school location, child-friendly design of premises, procurement of pedagogical materials.
Family Recruitment & Opening
2–3 monthsParent information evenings, admission of first children, official opening of the pilot campus.
Financial Framework
Costs in Kosovo are significantly lower than in Switzerland. The financing model is based on a hybrid of parent contributions, philanthropic donations, and diaspora support.
Local Partners
Strong Network on the Ground
ATOMI
Kosova IQ Initiative – has placed 50+ students at top US universities
Education Experts
Former government education representatives and experienced school developers
Diaspora Network
Strong Albanian diaspora in Switzerland and worldwide as a bridge and support base
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Contact for Kosova
Kujtim Dobruna
Advisory Board Member & Coordinator Kosova
Kujtim Dobruna coordinates the partnership on the ground and is your direct contact for all questions about the humanistic education initiative in Kosova.
Bringing Humanistic Education to the Balkans Together
Want to be part of this initiative? Contact us for a non-binding conversation.