DRC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Business College Mitrovica (IBCM) to enable students to gain practical experience while working on DRC projects in Mitrovicë/a. In March, DRC was happy to welcome two new interns, who will work with the community and economic development teams for 6 months.

Liridona Elezi will spend the next six months supporting community development activities as part of the Sida-funded Support to Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian Communities in Mitrovicë/a Project. Liridona studies Public Administration at IBCM and wishes to gain practical experience working with local civil society organizations and project development and monitoring. Supported by DRC staff, Liridona assists DRC’s local partners to draft projects and reviews project proposals. With her excellent English skills, she also contributes to documenting project activities and drafting stories that highlight the experiences of beneficiaries in DRC projects.

Our second intern is a 4th semester student of Environment and Agriculture at IBCM. With her experience working with local companies and educational background, Blerina Ombashi is well suited to support the Economic development team at the Social Business Incubator in Roma Mahalla. During her internship, Blerina can put her academic learning into practice. She will support minority business Manager Teuta with drafting a new business plan for her laundry business and participate in the Social Business Incubator Community Board which provides a platform for coordination and exchange between community and stakeholders in Roma Mahalla. She will also be able to contribute to activities related to environmental protection and health which are integral parts of the Support to Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian Communities in Mitrovicë/a Project.

Thanks to its cooperation with IBCM, DRC is happy to contribute to local students’ professional development. With DRC interns gain hands-on experience working with local government representatives and communities and get the opportunity to clarify career goals and build a professional network in their respective fields of interest.

For more information on IBCM courses, please visit their website: http://ibcmitrovica.eu/