Plan in Albania
(August 2007)
Plan will gradually close operations in Albania over the next year. Initially, Plan decided to set up in the country in 1995 when Albania was emerging from over 50 years of communist rule and living conditions had deteriorated considerably. This coupled with the war in Kosovo and subsequent refugee crisis meant daily life for children was extremely difficult.
Over the past two decades, the situation has improved and it is estimated now that 11% of the population live in poverty with just 2% living in extreme poverty. Following a review in 2005, Plan decided to leave and focus resources in poorer countries; however communities will continue to be supported by local organisations that Plan has mentored in recent years.
Hundreds of projects have been successfully completed with support from Plan sponsors and institutional donors, some of the key successes are outlined below:
- Including sports facilities (volleyball, basketball etc.) in school construction created more favourable learning environments resulting in more children attending and remaining in school
- Educating children on their rights and responsabilities has encouraged children and teachers to work together to continously improve the school environment
- Training in hygiene and water management means that communities are administering their own water supply
- Training in better agricultural practices has improve yields and minimised environmental damage
The pictures below illustrate the huge imrovement made to one school in the Dorez district:
Plan would like to thank all those who have sponsored a child in Albania and contributed to successful projects. We hope you will continue to support Plan by sponsoring with us again, your contributions provide the vital funds necessary to establish sustainable community managed projects.
Stories from Albania:
