APEL -WB

ERASMUS-EDU-2023-CBHE-STRAND-3 | Project No.101236402 – APEL-WB (CBHE)  

Project title: Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning and Capacity Building in the Western Balkans

The Lisbon Recognition Convention emphasizes the importance of recognizing learning acquired through self-education, work, and life experiences. It underscores the social obligation to ensure inclusive learning opportunities and calls for coordination across various higher education sectors.

To facilitate recognition processes, a European Recognition Manual provides practical guidelines for acknowledging prior learning through flexible learning pathways. In parallel, organizations are evolving into “intelligent entities”—characterized by digital expertise and structured knowledge—prompting universities to reaffirm their normative control over knowledge production and governance.

In the Western Balkans, Recognition and Accreditation of Prior Learning (RAPL) remains underdeveloped. The APEL-WB project seeks to institutionalize RAPL in WB countries as a systemic reform tool for inclusive higher education, aligning with EU and WB priorities for sustainable growth and knowledge-based economies.

Main Components:

•          Drafting normative guidelines to regulate RAPL procedures.

•      Designing training programs for experts, academic and administrative staff in higher education institutions, quality assurance agencies, and ministries of education.

By implementing these measures, the project promotes lifelong learning, equal opportunities, and the empowerment of individuals to utilize their competencies for personal and economic advancement, contributing to a more inclusive society.

Consortium Members:

1.        Logos University College

2.        University of Shkodra “Luigj Gurakuqi”

3.        Quality Assurance Agency in Higher Education (ASCAL)

4.        University of Prishtina

5.        RIT Kosovo*

6.        University of Akureyri (Iceland)

7.        Tallinn University (Estonia)

8.        Ministry of Education and Sports, Albania

9.        University of Sarajevo

10.     University of Patras (Greece)

11.     Center for Information and Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education, Mostar

12.     Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Republic of Kosovo*

Project Duration: 36 months

The APEL-WB Project Officially Launched at LOGOS University College

From 20–22 November 2025, LOGOS University College hosted the Kick-off Meeting of the APEL-WB project – “Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning Capacity-Building in the Western Balkans.”

Partners from the region and Europe convened to initiate work on strengthening the recognition of non-formal and experiential learning in higher education in Albania, Kosovo, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Day 1

The opening included official greetings, partner introductions, and discussions on project quality and management.

The meeting was addressed by Mr. Dimitrios Moschos (EACEA). A cultural music event and working dinner followed.

Day 2

Working groups held focused sessions on management, research, portfolio development, and dissemination, enhancing inter-institutional cooperation.

Day 3

Partners participated in a cultural visit in Tirana, including historical landmarks and the National Library.

The APEL-WB project commenced with a shared commitment and a clear vision for a more structured and accessible system for recognizing experiential and non-formal learning in the Western Balkans.