It has been almost a month since the launch of Sparkassenstiftung Albania’s Strengthening Financial Literacy project and partnerships and planning are well underway.

Following the Online National Stakeholder Workshop at the start of November, representatives from Sparkassenstiftung Albania have met with the Albanian Network for Financial Education (ANFE). Due to a high level of interest and a joint vision for financial education and literacy, an invitation was extended for Sparkassenstiftung to take part in the periodical meeting of ANFE as special guests. 

The meeting was held virtually on 20. November 2020, where Sparkassenstiftung representatives we were invited to present the timeframe, scope and vision of the Strengthening Financial Literacy project in Albania.

During the meeting, participants shared current efforts, challenges and initiatives related to financial education in the latter half of 2020. Junior Achievement of Albania and Partners Albania discussed their work together on educational videos, while insurance companies discussed how they have adapted their activities and products according to COVID-19 challenges. The Albanian Microfinance Association highlighted activities they carried out in cooperation with The Albanian Microfinance Center regarding “borrowing wisely,” where they delivered a webinar to 67 loan officers among their member institutions.

Mrs. Mimoza Kaci, the Deputy CEO of the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority (AMF) stressed the need for a national strategy on financial education and financial inclusion, which in her opinion would help improve the current financial situation in the country. She also stated that efforts should continue even though a national strategy is not yet in place and in this regard, she assured a commitment to support ANFE in all further related initiatives.

Mrs. Anja Deinzer, the Country Manager of Sparkassenstiftung Albania, intoroduced Sparkassenstiftung and shared the institution’s understanding of the current situation in the country related to financial education, literacy and financial inclusion. She also explained how the Strengthening Financial Literacy project can offer expertise and experience to institutions as well as the ANFE, to further develop through small and efficient steps. Her proposal and suggestions included improving organisation and efficiency of existing ANFE efforts as well as offering assistance to them through Sparkassenstiftung expertise. This offer was happily and warmly excepted unanimously by the representatives of ANFE members.

This was the last meeting of 2020 and we are excited for the ‘fun’ of 2021 to commence!