Empowering Young People to Drive Kosovo’s Green Transition

Pristina, Kosovo – 27 April 2026, Young people in Kosovo are stepping into a more active role in shaping a greener, more energy-efficient future, through Green Rising, a global movement by UNICEF and partners to mobilize children and youth to take practical climate action.

At the center of this effort is a collaboration between UNICEF, the Kosovo Energy Efficiency Fund (KEEF), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and NGO “TOKA,” which brings together investment, expertise, and youth engagement to accelerate Kosovo’s green transition.

This collaboration connects large-scale energy efficiency investments with grassroots youth action. While KEEF and EBRD support the implementation of energy efficiency measures, particularly in public buildings such as schools and kindergartens, with the support of UNICEF in Kosovo, young people are mobilized to raise awareness, advocate for improvements, and help generate demand for these interventions at the local level.

A key component of this work is the establishment of Energy Efficiency Clubs in schools and communities in municipalities such as Shtime and Podujeva. These clubs provide a platform for students to explore practical solutions to real challenges, from reducing energy consumption in their schools to promoting sustainable behaviors in their communities. Through these activities, young people are developing critical green skills, including problem-solving, leadership, and communication.

“Early education on energy conservation and environmental protection contributes to sustainable development and a green future,” said Njomeza Hoxha, Executive Director of the Kosovo Energy Efficiency Fund.

The initiative is part of the broader Green Rising movement, a worldwide effort to empower young people to take meaningful action on climate and environmental issues. In Kosovo, this vision is being translated into concrete, community-level impact. Young participants are not only designing and implementing awareness campaigns, but are also presenting practical solutions such as improving energy efficiency in public buildings, developing ideas for renewable energy production, and exploring how solar panels and other clean technologies can be used in their schools and communities. They are also engaging directly with local institutions and contributing to a stronger culture of sustainability.

“Climate change and pollution are global challenges that directly affect our lives and our future. But they also bring opportunities, from climate technology and clean energy solutions to project financing and innovation. With ideas, partnerships, and the right support, young people can help lead the transition toward a cleaner and more sustainable future,” said Sergiy Maslichenko, Head of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

By linking youth engagement with institutional support and financing, this partnership demonstrates how collaborative approaches can deliver tangible results. It also highlights a broader shift: recognizing young people as key actors in addressing climate challenges and building more resilient communities.

“As Kosovo continues to navigate its energy and environmental priorities, initiatives like these show that meaningful change happens when youth leadership is matched with strong partnerships and sustained investment,” said Veronika Vashchenko, Head of UNICEF in Kosovo.