Unemployed people in vocational courses to receive 50% of the minimum wage per class hour and 1,800 lek for transportation

The government has approved a decision providing financial support to unemployed jobseekers from special groups who attend vocational training courses. The decision, proposed by the Ministry of Economy and Innovation, was reported by ATSH.

How much trainees receive

For every class hour attended, trainees will receive 50% of the minimum wage. Those who live more than two kilometers from the training institution also get a transportation bonus of 1,800 lek a month. Payment is made monthly to the beneficiary's bank account for the entire duration of the course, after documentation proving attendance is submitted.

The benefit is granted for only one course within 12 months. If a trainee voluntarily drops out of the course or misses more than 20% of class hours, payment stops immediately and they lose the right to it for the following month and subsequent months.

The role of AKPA

The National Agency for Employment and Skills, through its regional directorates, will assess jobseekers' needs and refer them to suitable courses. On completion, participants receive a nationally recognized certificate. Courses in the on-the-job training program are not included in this scheme.

The program will be implemented for five years from its entry into force and is funded from the state budget under the “Labor Market” program. The decision takes effect after publication in the Official Gazette. The ministry has not made public the expected number of beneficiaries.

The scheme targets categories that find it hardest to enter the labor market and aims to ensure that financial obstacles, such as lost income during the course or the cost of travel, do not keep them away from vocational training.