In a groundbreaking stride towards economic empowerment, the Kosovo Banking Association (KBA), in partnership with Deutsche Sparkassenstiftung für internationale Kooperation in Kosovo (DSIK Kosovo), have launched the “Empower Finance” Campaign. By uniting their expertise and resources, both organizations aim to foster financial inclusion and economic empowerment for individuals and communities across Kosovo. Rooted in the belief that access to financial services is a fundamental human right, this campaign seeks to break down barriers, bridge disparities, and empower individuals and marginalized communities to take control of their financial futures and look for a better future through adequate financial education. This collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to equipping individuals and communities with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the complexities of the financial world.
Recognizing that a solid understanding of financial principles is crucial for personal and community well-being, the program offers a diverse range of educational resources and workshops. These sessions cover essential topics such as saving, personal finance, budgeting, and responsible borrowing. By equipping individuals with the tools to make informed financial decisions, the messages spread by the “Empower Finance” campaign seek to fortify the economic foundations of communities across Kosovo.
In the quality of the main partner, DSIK Kosovo will be offering its contribution by making use of its long-standing expertise and experience in several significant components of the “Empower Finance” campaign. DSIK Kosovo will support the Kosovo Banking Association team in the process of campaign conceptualization by involving the local and international professional advice in regard to the content development and thereafter the implementation of the campaign.
DSIK Kosovo national experts will oversee the Campaign training component by actively being engaged in organizing workshops and seminars related to financial and green education topics throughout Kosovo. Earlier this year, DSIK Kosovo successfully organized the savings Game ToT programme with the representation of several different financial institutions and partner organizations in the country. As a result, about 12 trainers are well coached and ready to deliver the Savings Game training for the next three months aiming to narrow the financial education gap of the youngsters, microbusiness owners, farmers, women in business etc. DSIK Kosovo will also take care of the Campaign presence on the social media platforms by updating the respective channels not only with the training related activities, but also with some short and relevant financial education advice.
German Sparkassenstiftung Kosovo operates within the framework of the Deutsche Sparkassenstiftung für internationale Kooperation in Bonn, Germany.
DSIK is the development-policy arm of the Sparkassen-Finanzgruppe and is an implementing agency for the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Its task is to disseminate the successful Sparkassen model across regional borders and around the globe and aims to increase access, usage, and quality of financial services worldwide.
Think globally, act locally, cooperate internationally.
Sparkassen were set up in Germany more than 200 years ago as microfinance institutions for low-income earners. Since then, they have grown into one of the largest financial groups in the world – one that successfully combines outstanding professionalism with a strong social mandate.
DSIK provides proactive support to financial institutions that sustainably foster economic and social development at the local, regional, or national level through needs-oriented banking services and vocational training. The goal is to assist its partner institutions to become more professional and therefore able to give their customers permanent access to financial services. The main target groups are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as poor and socially marginalized groups.
Business Games
A success model blazes a trail around the world
Business Games made by DSIK have become an international brand for an innovative interactive learning experience. Interaction, practical exercise, and the motivation to finish the game as the winner leads to high learning success.
Vast demand and strong experience in many countries around the world as well as highly satisfied participants are convincing proof of the success and the added value of the Business Games. In Kosovo, the “Savings Game” will be used in the framework of “Empower Finance” – helping people to learn how to better manage their personal finances.
A better future through financial education. Deutsche Sparkassenstiftung für internationale Kooperation in Balkans.
DSIK entered the Balkans in 2020, starting its impactful journey in Albania and then expanding to North Macedonia. The project's focus was on strengthening financial education and financial literacy, which were identified as essential tools for addressing the developing situation, demography, and future of Albania.
In 2023, DSIK has extended its efforts to Kosovo, amplifying its mission to promote financial literacy and inclusion across the region.
DSIK Kosovo has recently initiated collaborations with local partners in Kosovo and has successfully conducted a series of training sessions. Partnering with the Kosovo Banking Association, DSIK is gearing up for the 'Empower Finance' campaign, a targeted effort to boost financial literacy and inclusion in Kosovo.
A Shared Vision, A Collective Impact .
The synergy between the KBA and DSIK Kosovo is emblematic of a shared vision for a financially empowered Kosovo. Through their concerted efforts, these organizations are not only imparting essential financial knowledge but also sowing the seeds for a more inclusive and prosperous future. As DSIK brings its global expertise to the table, the “Empower Finance” initiative gains even greater momentum in its mission to transform lives through financial education and empowerment.
