With one of the highest rates of internet penetration in Europe, ICT is an area with significant potential, and one of the fastest growing sectors in Kosovo’s economy.  USAID is helping Kosovo to build a new cadre of leaders and entrepreneurs to meet this emerging market demand.  On September 24, USAID’s local partner Cacttus Education celebrated the graduation of young scholars completing the organization's two-year ICT program (20 students) and their short-term training program (30 students).  

USAID/Kosovo’s Economic Growth Office Director, Joshua Mike, virtually joined the ceremony to congratulate the students, highlighting the need to create new opportunities for youth in the ICT sector and for youth to obtain skills that meet the market demand.  He also emphasized the importance of building a new generation of ICT professionals that can start their own businesses and contribute to Kosovo’s economy.

The ceremony marked the conclusion of USAID’s Partnering for Impact in ICT activity in cooperation with Cacttus Education.  The USAID-funded activity has trained 60 students in the two-year ICT program, with over 400 students participating in short-term ICT and entrepreneurship programs.  USAID’s partnership with Cacttus has also provided job placements for more than 80 students throughout Kosovo.