As universities in Albania grapple with declining enrollment rates each year, professional schools are experiencing a surge in demand. Culinary arts programs, in particular, have seen a significant uptick in interest, driven by the burgeoning tourism industry.
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| During an hour of teaching at a cooking school in Tirana |
“The culinary profession is rewarding but also challenging. The field is now highly valued and offers competitive salaries. In the past, long working hours were a common issue, but the situation is improving,” said Chef Arsid Cekorja, to Euronoews Albania.
“With the growth of tourism in recent years, there has been a corresponding increase in job opportunities, creating a demand for skilled professionals. Our school has been training students from the sixth grade, and we’ve seen a steady rise in interest. Despite the brain drain, the demand for culinary talent remains strong, and we’re seeing many young people pursue this path,” added pastry chef Samel Zyberi.
While salaries in the culinary industry are attractive, many young people view this profession as a stepping stone to opportunities in Europe.
“The challenge is convincing young people that they can build successful careers here in Albania. We are one of the highest-paying countries in the region for culinary professionals, and there are plenty of job opportunities,” explained Chef Ergys Rexhepi.
To meet the growing demand for skilled culinary workers, both public employment offices and private certified schools are offering professional training programs. These institutions supply the local and regional markets with qualified personnel, extending their reach as far as Croatia.