In 2024, YMCA Albania made significant strides in promoting digital literacy and fostering community development through its Digital Community Hubs. This is a particularly relevant initiative given that digitalisation in Albania has advanced to the point where most public services require online access.
However, a significant portion of the population, especially seniors, face challenges in navigating these systems. To address this, YMCA Albania‘s digital community hubs not only provide essential learning spaces but also offer guided accessibility support through dedicated staff and volunteers, ensuring that individuals of all ages and abilities can participate fully in digital life.
Expanding Digital Hubs Across Albania
Efforts have centred on two main hubs—the Community Centre in Tirana and the public library in Berat. These hubs serve as essential digital learning spaces, offering services that empower individuals of all ages.
Through strategic partnerships, YMCA Albania also launched two additional hubs:
- the Youth Multifunctional Centre in Cerrik, in collaboration with Shales village high school, and
- the Rroshnik United School, located in a village near Berat.
In December, a new initiative began in Vora, just outside Tirana: “Empowering Vulnerable Groups in Vora through Enhanced Digital Skills”, in partnership with “Illyrian Cyber Security Center” and “Vora Municipality”, supported by United Nations Development Programme – UNDP under the United Nations Joint Programme – LEAP Albania, and funded by the SDG Fund in cooperation with the Ministry of Economic, Culture and Innovation, Ministry of Health and Social Protection. The project aims to empower vulnerable groups by enhancing their digital skills, improving access to public services, and ensuring better quality long-term care within the community.
Mobile Digital Hubs for Wider Community Impact
To extend its reach and ensure inclusivity, YMCA Albania has implemented mobile digital hubs in partnership with various local organisations. This approach provides services to underserved communities, enhancing digital access and skills development for people of all ages.
Key Partnerships and Community Engagement
In Tirana, YMCA Albania’s digital community hubs have partnered with a diverse range of stakeholders to maximise impact, including:
- Public Community Centres in the suburbs of Tirana, supporting vulnerable groups of all ages.
- “Yzberisht” Public Secondary and High Schools in Tirana’s suburbs.
- “Rainbow” Private Secondary School.
- Terre des Hommes, an international organisation advocating for children’s rights.
- NCCS Community Organisation, supporting women who have experienced domestic violence.
- ARSIS, providing comprehensive services to Roma and Egyptian communities.
- City of Students Fair, welcoming students from across the country.
- Faculty of Social Science, engaging social work students in targeted sessions.
- Partners Albania, the largest NGO in Albania, as part of Civic Week activities.Y’s Men Club Tirana.
In Berat, partnerships have extended to:
- The Municipality of Berat (Library Vexhi Buharaja).
- Catholic Churches in Berat and Gramsh.
- Volontari del Sebino, an Italian volunteer organisation.
- Catholic Youth from Ravenna, Italy.
- Local Tourism and Family Businesses across Berat and its administrative units.
Strengthening Community Connections and Digital Participation
Beyond the target groups reached, the hubs in Tirana and Berat have fostered dynamic community engagement. Approximately 200 individuals, including children, youth, parents, teachers, and professionals, participate regularly in various activities at the hubs. Each month, an estimated 50 to 60 adults visit the hubs for the first time, demonstrating continued growth and reach.
Impact in Numbers
- Total Unique Direct Beneficiaries Improved: 4,788 individuals.
- Indirect Beneficiaries: Over 15,400 individuals
A Commitment to Digital Inclusion and Community Empowerment
The Community Digital Hubs in Albania are a testament to YMCA’s commitment to digital inclusion and empowerment. By collaborating with local communities and partners, YMCA Albania has created accessible spaces where individuals can build essential digital skills, enhance their employability, and foster connections within their communities. These ongoing efforts aim to expand the impact further, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.
YMCA Albania remains dedicated to building stronger, more inclusive communities, both locally and across Europe.
Digital Community Hubs in the West Balkans is a YMCA initiative, powered by HP to accelerate digital equity in the regions, by helping YMCAs in Kosovo, Albania, Serbia, and North Macedonia to expand existing or create new digital community hubs.
The project aims to expand existing digital hubs and create new ones to enable young people, including those from marginalized communities, teachers, and youth workers, to access greater opportunities for education and employment.
