We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable practises. Our facility is equipped with energy-efficient lighting and we use eco-friendly products whenever possible.
We work with a network of vendors and partners to provide the best possible experience for our clients. Our partners include catering companies, event planners, and entertainment providers.
It’s been well over a month now that our 23 Interns from different Albanian public administrations have embarked on their journey to their host EU countries, France, Germany, Italy, and Croatia.
They have truly made a remarkable impression during their time abroad by not only adapting to their new environments but also demonstrating exceptional dedication and enthusiasm towards their work.
The host institutions in France, Germany, Italy, and Croatia have commended them for their strong work ethic. They have shown a great willingness to learn and acquire new skills, all with the aim of enhancing their knowledge and expertise to benefit their home institutions upon their return.
As their journey abroad continues, we have no doubt that our Young Cells will continue to excel and make a lasting impression. We look forward to their return, where they will undoubtedly bring back valuable insights and knowledge to further enhance their home institutions.
By the YCA Project Team
Today, we had an exciting learning session on EU Affairs with Aglaé Le Roux
Aglaé, the Deputy Head of Unit of Neighborhood, Enlargement, and Defence at Secrétariat général des affaires européennes (SGAE)🇪🇺, presented a comprehensive overview of SGAF and its crucial role in coordinating France’s position on EU matters. This session was a thorough analysis into the mechanisms that ensure France speaks with one voice on European Union topics.
We also explored the role of the Technical Assistance and Information Exchange instrument (TAIEX) in promoting EU integration. One highlight was the detailed exposition of twinning projects, specifically illustrating a successful two-year collaboration between France and Albania for the School of Magistrates.
TAIEX is a phenomenal tool that allows beneficiary countries to align seamlessly with the EU acquis. The session sparked an engaging dialogue among our Young Cells Interns, who were eager to learn more.
Thank you, Aglaé Le Roux, for your valuable insights, and thanks to all our interns for their active participation. This session has been a source of knowledge for all of us aspiring to deepen our understanding of EU processes and integration .
By the YCA Project Team
"Harmonie Linguistique: Young Cells Albania Prepares for the Enchanting Allure of France"
We're thrilled to announce that our intern candidates gearing up for their overseas adventures in France have successfully wrapped up their final online French language lesson! Our sincere gratitude extends to the French Embassy in Albania for making this remarkable venture possible, thanks to its generosity in sharing contacts and sponsoring the lessons.
A tip of the hat to the esteemed Alliance Française in Albania, whose commitment to excellence was evident in the provision of impeccable online courses. We express our deepest appreciation to the distinguished professors, Ermioni Gravani and Loreta Shehaj, for their unwavering dedication to the art of linguistic mastery. Merci infiniment for your invaluable contributions!
This language training is more than just mastering phrases; it's a crucial step towards effective communication in their host institutions. These newly acquired language skills will undoubtedly enhance their overall internship experience, enabling them to connect more meaningfully and contribute effectively.
A special chapter is about to unfold for our interns, and we're grateful to have such wonderful partners supporting them on this journey! Stay tuned for more updates as they embark on this enriching experience in France!
By the YCA Project Team
Activity 2.3.1. "Seminar on legal approximation and coordination of EU negotiations"
January 24 - 25 - 26
Europe House
The public administration candidates of the “Young Cells” project successfully completed their final workshop.
The preparatory phase with training sessions and online schools served to better understand the practices that the selected project participants will follow in EU member countries, such as France, Germany, Italy, and Croatia.
Their transformative journey continues, and we had the pleasure of hosting Prof Assoc Marco Borraccetti, who presented fascinating insights into EU institutions:
- The European Parliament
- The European Council
- The Council
- The European Commission
- The Court of Justice of the European Union
- The European Central Bank
- The Court of Auditors
During his presentation, he discussed Treaties such as the TEU, TFEU, and CFR, as well as Secondary law. He highlighted the importance of the institutions adopting regulations, directives, decisions, recommendations, and opinions in order to exercise the Union’s competences. Furthermore, he explored various fascinating Study Cases, sharing his vast experience. Everyone greatly benefitted from his extensive knowledge.
By the YCA Project Team
Activity 2.3.1. "Seminar on legal approximation and coordination of EU negotiations"
Getting Ready for a New Adventure! With just a few days remaining, the participants from our “Young Cells” program are eagerly preparing to embark on an exhilarating European journey! During this adventure, they will have the incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in various work practices and engage in study visits across the EU.—France, Germany, Italy, and Croatia await!
Fresh Snaps from our Seminar (16th-18th January): With the guidance of Italian expert Mattia Casula from the University of Bologna (UNIBO), our participants have gained valuable insights into the processes of European integration.
In addition, they have also examined the coordination of national policies in Albania and studied case examples from France, Italy, and Germany. They have learned about the implementation of transformative innovation policies and have witnessed remarkable changes taking place in Member States. It has truly been an enlightening experience!
YoungCellsAlbania Reminder: This program is a unique opportunity for experience and growth. We invite everyone to join us in supporting these participants on their transformative journey! Share your own transformative experiences below and use YoungCellsAlbania
Stay tuned for live updates as they set off on this extraordinary European journey in just a few days!
By the YCA Project Team
Date: 15th January 2024
As part of the Young Cells Albania project’s Online Winter School, we had the honor of hosting a thought-provoking online session. Dr. Angela Bourbouli, Alternate Director at EKDDA (National Centre for Public Administration and Local Government), showcased her expertise in a presentation entitled “The Transition to a New System of Evaluation for Civil Servants in Greece: A New Strategy for Training and Building Skills.”
Important Points:
1. Dr. Bourbouli shared valuable insights with the candidates of the Young cells Project, exploring the exciting developments that are shaping adult learning in Europe. This was regarding the New European Agenda for Adult Learning (2021-2030).
2. Law 4940/2022, titled “The Notion of Evaluation in Public Administration,” was the focal point of the session. Participants delved into the complexities of the recently implemented Evaluation System for the Hellenic Public Administration, as stipulated in the aforementioned law.
3. Management by Objectives (MBO) - Minimum of Three Objectives: The participants gained a thorough comprehension of the MBO approach and its importance in assessing civil servants.
4. Dr. Bourbouli highlighted the significance of the Common Skills Framework in influencing the assessment procedure, focusing specifically on the wide-ranging skills needed in the public sector.
5. The presentation delved into the expanded duties of assessors and emphasized their crucial role in formulating impactful Development Plans.
6. During the session, participants were educated on the practical aspects of carrying out Development Plans and the significant role played by Human Resources Development Consultants in this process.
7. Dr. Bourbouli stressed the significance of grasping and harmonizing with the team’s dynamics, which plays a vital role in creating a cohesive and productive work atmosphere.
8. The session wrapped up with the importance underlined of continuous training in the Greek Public Administration. It emphasized the need for ongoing professional development to enhance skills and knowledge.
Expressing appreciation to Dr. Angela Bourbouli: We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Bourbouli for generously sharing her expertise and offering valuable insights into the ever-changing landscape of civil service evaluation in Greece as part of the Young Cells Project.
By the YCA Project Team
Date: 13th December 2023
The Autumn Online School of Young Cells Albania hosted a captivating session with Mrs. Marion Loustric, Program Director at DINUM. She shared valuable insights on France’s digitalization journey, including:
Policies and Projects: Discover how DINUM is driving digital transformation within the French public administration.
Introducing DINUM: Learn about its mission, mandate, resources, and approach.
Challenges and Achievements: Explore the complexities and successes of state digital transformation.
Data Strategy: Gain insights into France’s data strategy and its role in public service improvement.
Proactive Administration: Understand the concept of a proactive administration and its practical implementation.
Communication and Change Management: Navigate key aspects of communication and change management in digital transformation.
Legal and Technical Considerations: Learn about the legal and technical frameworks governing digital initiatives.
Interministerial Coordination: Discover the importance of collaboration in achieving successful digitalization.
This session provided valuable knowledge and inspiration for the 25 Young Cells Albania participants working towards a more efficient and citizen-centric public administration.
By the YCA Project Team
Date: 12th December 2023
Today's session of our online Autumn School took us on a journey to understand SIGMA, a joint initiative of the OECD and the EU dedicated to strengthening public governance. Led by OECD expert Timo Ligi, we explored the core principles of effective public administration, SIGMA's role in the Western Balkans, and its valuable resources for improving governance.
Here are some key takeaways:
• What is SIGMA? SIGMA stands for Support for Improvement in Governance and Management. It works to strengthen public governance systems and capacities, contributing to socio-economic development.
• Mission and Activities: SIGMA's mission is to assist partner countries in improving their public administrations through assessments, project assistance, and preparation for future needs.
• Principles of Public Administration: SIGMA promotes good practices in key areas like policy development, resource management, service delivery, and accountability.
• Thematic Areas: SIGMA focuses on diverse areas including policy development, human resource management, public finances, service delivery, and digitalization.
• Focus on the Western Balkans: SIGMA actively supports Albania, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia in their public administration reforms.
• Useful Resources: SIGMA offers valuable resources like the PAR-Portal (par-portal.sigmaweb.org), a comprehensive platform on public administration reform.
Looking ahead, SIGMA's future action plan for Albania focuses on:
• Policy development and public service improvements.
• Implementation of the decentralization strategy.
• Cooperation between municipalities and businesses.
• Support for the Prime Minister's Office on public consultation tools.
This session provided a wealth of information on SIGMA's crucial role in enhancing public governance across the region. Stay tuned for more exciting insights from our Autumn School!
By the YCA Project Team
Date: 11th December 2023
Today's session of our online Autumn School took us behind the scenes of French public service excellence, with a deep dive into the Direction générale de l'administration et de la fonction publique (DGAFP).
Here's a glimpse into the insights we gained:
Stay tuned for more exciting insights from our online Autumn School!
By the YCA Project Team
Date: 5th December 2023
In a world where environmental consciousness is paramount, the Environmental Management and Audit System (EMAS) takes center stage. Recently, our Albanian civil servant interns had the privilege of attending a thought-provoking presentation by EMAS management representative Celso Sanchez Martinez. Let’s delve into the key insights from this transformative session:
The European Commission, under the visionary leadership of Ursula von der Leyen, has set an ambitious goal: to become a beacon of sustainability by 2030. This mission, aptly named the Greening of the Commission, aims to modernize and green our practices. Three parallel policy documents drive this transformation:
EMAS, rooted in ISO 14001, empowers us to reduce our environmental impact systematically. During the presentation, we explored:
Implementing EMAS costs approximately 1 coffee per person per week. Yet, the savings ripple far beyond—millions of euros saved for the city of Brussels alone.
This presentation emphasized:
As our trainees prepare for internships abroad, armed with this knowledge, we eagerly await the positive impact they’ll create. The best is yet to come! Stay tuned for more exciting YCA events. 🚀🌏
By the YCA Project Team
7 - 8 November 2023
The last two sessions that our young cells trainees attended on November 7th and 8th, by experts Vanina Jakupi and Eris Cela, addressed the subjects of Public Financial Management (PFM) and Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA).
In the first session, which focused on Public Financial Management, Ms. Jakupi explained the importance, the strategic objectives, and the connection between the public finances and the governmental programs. We believe that civil servant workers who understand and apply PFM concepts are better equipped to make sound financial decisions, promote transparency and accountability, and contribute to the efficient functioning of their institutions.
In the following session, expert Eris Cela introduced the participants to the concept of RIA and explained its importance in the Global and regional context. Some examples from countries such as France, Germany and Croatia were introduced to help trainees understand the different scales of implementation and the areas prioritized by national agendas. Furthermore, the session addressed the importance of RIA in Albania and its development process throughout the years.
To conclude, Mr. Cela elaborated on the assessment methods, implementation and monitoring practices developed and improved annually in Albania.
We want to thank the trainees for their dedication and desire to learn. They will soon start their internships abroad, and we hope to have helped them expand their horizon with valuable knowledge that they will hopefully implement and utilize during their time abroad.
The best is yet to come, which is why we encourage you to stay tuned and explore the upcoming YCA events.
23 October 2023
Our trainees have embarked on an exciting online autumn school organized by the Regional School of Public Administration (ReSPA) and the French INSP. Via these virtual lectures, which will happen over the course of six weeks, the participants will define the goals of their internships and the topics they will deal with and improve their understanding of the different stakeholders, processes and challenges for administrative reforms. They will engage with the case studies and reflect to what extent the examples can improve processes within the framework of the Albanian reform efforts and the intended EU integration.
The first session was hosted by Prof. Jean-Michel EYMERI-DOUZANS, a renowned professor currently engaged as the Vice-Rector for International Relations at Science Po Toulouse and as the president of the European Group for Public Administration in Brussels. Prof. Douzans delivered an informative session on the different European public administration systems, namely in Germany, Italy and France, three of the four hosting countries where the selected Young Cells trainees will be pursuing their internships.
The first online session focused on three study cases and covered concepts such as the added value of comparative analysis, the diversity of European States, the main politico-administrative common features among EU Member States, and typologies of civil services.
Hosting online sessions can present challenges; however, the professionalism exhibited by Professor Eymeri-Douzans, coupled with the assistance provided by ReSPA made our first session very successful and highly engaging. Our Young Cells trainees displayed enthusiasm and curiosity, and remained highly involved throughout the entire session and inquired more about real-life scenarios.
We hope they will take these valuable concepts, and transform them into successful practices.
Thank you to all our partners for your valuable contribution, and thank you to our trainees for your enthusiasm and your motivation to learn.
12 & 13 October 2023
What an amazing second training we have had! On this two-day workshop, which took place on October 12th and 13th, our French experts, Ms Francoise Belet and Mr Xavier Givelet brought their French perspective and introduced the trainees to the administrative intricacies of Germany and Italy and how these countries compare with the broader European context. As the experts noted, debunking the complexities of administrative culture is essential to achieve effective governance and to train impactful civil servants.
During both days, participants explored the theoretical concepts that stand at the heart of administrative cultures, namely procedures, control mechanisms, the role of local authorities, value-oriented management, and the influence of social changes on the civil service. The Young Cells trainees also delivered individual presentations and explored the differences between the German and Italian administrative cultures.
Three key concepts were highlighted, during the workshop, to understand the solid foundation needed for a sustainable administrative culture.
🚀 Driving Positive Action: Administrative culture transcends procedures. It inspires individuals and institutions to drive positive actions that prioritize and benefit their communities and societies. It is a mixture of rules and values that foster progress.
💪 Remaining Agile Amid Change: In an era of continuous societal changes, administrative cultures must remain agile. There is a constant need to adapt, evolve, pivot when necessary, and embrace new changes.
🤝 Collective Adoption of Managerial Values: True administrative excellence lies in the collective adoption of managerial values, regardless of geographical boundaries. A shared set of values can lead to better understanding and cooperation, promoting the greater communal good.
Young Cells Albania is a multifaceted project that addresses different components of the administrative system and aims to prepare future agents of change by fostering a culture of learning and collaboration. As aspiring future EU (European Union) stakeholders, Albanian civil servants have a responsibility to drive positive action, remain agile in the face of change, and promote the collective adoption of managerial values for a brighter, more efficient administrative future.
Stay tuned to explore how the Young Cells trainees will progress and achieve the above in their individual journeys!
6 October 2023
And we are off to a good start. On October 5th and 6th, the young cells trainees engaged in their first workshop about administrative writing.
In this immersive 2-day workshop, our invited experts, Aisling O’Leary and Avenilda Lehmann, blended contemporary methods, engaging exercises, and real-life examples from the public administrations of Ireland and France to equip the trainees with advanced skills in administrative writing. Through group discussions and practical exercises, participants analysed diverse concepts, and applied them in diverse scenarios.
What better way to learn than from real-world stories? The two invited experts delved into the practices of public administrations in Ireland and France, two countries known for their efficient administrative systems. Trainees were then introduced to examples from the two different administrations, and explored how to navigate complex bureaucracies, handle sensitive information, data privacy, and communicate effectively with the public and stakeholders involved.
The examples served to lead the discussions and stimulate the participants to share their personal experiences in the Albanian Public Administration.
Advanced administrative writing is a fundamental skill that can empower young civil servants to excel in their careers, contribute to effective and transparent governance, and help them drive sustainable change in their respective institutions. This workshop marks the beginning of a long, exciting journey for the Young Cells trainees, who will obtain knowledge and skills on how to effectively address Albania's most pressing challenges arising from the EU accession process.
21 September 2023
After successfully navigating a highly competitive and merit-based selection process, we are thrilled to officially introduce the 25 civil servant selected candidates for the Young Cells Albania program.
During this visibility orientation and networking event, the selected civil servant trainees had the opportunity to learn more about the countries that will host their internships and the program's objectives. Starting in January 2024, the 25 civil servants of Albania Public Administration will embark on their internship journey in France, Germany, Italy, and Croatia. From September to December 2023, the trainees will also be engaged in a series of training programs focused on EU administration.
We were honored to have representatives from the Department of Public Administration as the main beneficiary of the project, Central Financing Contracting Unit from the Ministry of Finance, EU Delegation in Albania, Embassy of France in Albania, and the Albanian State Agency for Strategic Programming and Aid Coordination join us at the event. After the welcoming speeches from the above-mentioned institutions, Professor Stefano Bianchini from the University of Bologna, Professor Gert Fieguth from the University of Kehl, and a representative from Regional School of Public Administration gave their remarks about the importance of Albania's EU integration.
The Young Cells project is funded by the European Union under IPA II 2020 and is being implemented by a consortium led by the French Institute National du Service Public, with the University of Kehl, in Germany, the University of Bologna and the region Emilia-Romagna in Italy, as co-applicants. The National Centre for Public Administration and Local Government of Greece, and the National School of Public Administration of Croatia are associated partners.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting journey.
18 July 2023
We are very pleased to disclose the final list of the YCA participants.
Based on a rigorous, transparent, and merit-based selection procedure, the YCA Jury identified the most qualified candidates to be part of the YCA programme, that will allow them to increase their skills and knowledge, as well as to perform an internship in either Croatia, France, Germany, Greece or Italy.
Here are the selected young civil servants, in alphabetic order:
· BULKU Gledis
· CELA Anisa
· DALIPAJ Ivana
· DASHBALLA Merita
· GABILI Ardit
· HAXHI Stela
· JACE Klajdi
· JUSHI Ingrit
· KALI Romina
· KANANI Izmir
· KOLA Rajmonda
· LUSHA Elona
· MECALLA Ingrid
· MYRTA Nadire
· PINARI Marsida
· PLAKU Aurora
· QUKU Mimoza
· RAPUSHI Ermira
· SELA Ermira
· SHKURTI Ermelinda
· SULSTAROVA Idlir
· TARELLI Ermelinda
· VOGLI Margarita
· VRANICI Ardit
· ZALLUMI Gentjana
The project team would like to thank and congratulate ALL APPLICANTS for their interest, time and efforts spent.
4 July 2023
This week interviews are on going, performed by 5 Jury Members, including 3 Academics from France, Germany and Italy. For the 31 candidates invited, this is the final selective step to try to be part of the 25 participants to Young Cells' scheme.
26 June 2023
The following 31 candidates will be invited to the next and final step, the interview in front of a jury of international experts:
1. BULKU Gledis
2. CELA Anisa
3. COLI Xhuljo
4. DALIPAJ Ivana
5. DASHBALLA Merita
6. GABILI Ardit
7. HAXHI Stela
8. HYSAJ Hygerta
9. JACE Klajdi
10. JUSHI Ingrit
11. KALI Romina
12. KANANI Izmir
13. KARAJ Xhulia
14. KOCI Xheni
15. KOLA Rajmonda
16. LUSHA Elona
17. MECALLA Ingrid
18. MYRTA Nadire
19. NASTIMI Edlira
20. PINARI Marsida
21. PLAKU Aurora
22. QUKU Mimoza
23. RAPUSHI Ermira
24. SELA Ermira
25. SHKURTI Ermelinda
26. SULSTAROVA Idlir
27. TARELLI Ermelinda
28. TOCI Belkize
29. VOGLI Margarita
30. VRANICI Ardit
31. ZALLUMI Gentjana
20 June 2023
- Young Cells Albania received 61 application files, from which 42 passed the eligibility check and were invited to take the written examinations.
- The written examinations in English, French, German, Greek and Italian took place on 19th June.
- The candidates who pass these written examinations will be invited to the next step: oral interviews in early July. The list of pre-selected candidates will be published on 27th June.