June 5, 2025 | Thursday
The BONEVET Story
For the celebrations of Europe Day 2025, BONEVET Kosovo was one of the many civil society actors with whom we collaborated. With BONEVET, we hosted a nine-day workshop, where children learned various 3D modeling practices, expressing their creativity through technological tools. The workshop concluded with the exhibition “Europe in Miniature” at the Europe House in Prishtina.
In addition to this program, BONEVET offers various educational programs for children and adults. Below, Flatra Thaqi, Managing Director of BONEVET Prishtina, provides us with a profile of this long-term EU partner in Kosovo, and you will be able to learn more about ways you or your children can become part of their programs.
Flatra Thaqi, Managing Director of BONEVET Prishtina
Through play and technology, BONEVET encourages children, youth and adults to identify and develop their talents and abilities. As a non-formal education institution, BONEVET was launched in 2014 in Gjakovë/Đakovica, when the I LOVE KOSOVO Foundation (Fondacioni UNË E DU KOSOVËN) established the first center in response to the lack of a practical and creative approach in Kosovo’s education system. The circumstances at the time coincided with rapid technological developments that were not being followed by traditional education, and this gap prompted the creation of a space where children and young people could learn differently, through experience, creativity, and collaboration.
BONEVET grew on the values of personal development, encouraging critical thinking, and creative imagination.
BONEVET quickly transformed into a powerful educational movement which is today present in six cities in Kosovo (Prishtinë/Pristina, Kamenicë/Kamenica, Kaçanik/Kačanik, Mitrovicë/Mitrovica and Pejë/Peć) and with its presence has directly impacted the lives of over 15,000 children and youth, becoming one of the most sustainable and influential initiatives in the field of non-formal education in the country.
BONEVET’s approach is built on a “hands-on” philosophy, where children and youth learn through play in STEAM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics).
BONEVET’s main programs are organized into two fundamental pillars: BONEVET Education and BONEVET Makerspace.
BONEVET Education
BONEVET Education offers two-month STEAM classes for ages 5 to 15, which foster creativity and develop critical thinking skills through hands-on projects and group work. Also, summer camps are organized for children aged 5 to 11, which are five-day experiences where fun and learning are combined in a dynamic and inspiring environment. Meanwhile, for young people over 15 years old, vocational training focused on technical skills such as mechanics, programming, design and electronics is offered, specifically designed to adapt to the needs of the labor market.
BONEVET Makerspace
On the other hand, BONEVET Makerspace includes the Makers Academy, an intensive 10-month program for young people aged 16 to 29, where they gain in-depth knowledge in digital design, CNC manufacturing, electronics, and programming. In addition to this program, an annual membership model is also offered for ages 12 and over, which enables participants to explore technology independently, through the use of advanced equipment and with the support of dedicated mentors.
BONEVET’s development path is built on dedication and innovation. Initially with dozens of students in the first classes, the organization grew to hundreds of participants in each two-month period and now welcomes thousands of children and youth throughout the year. Through diverse experiences, including STEAM classes, community workshops, and international collaborations, BONEVET has built a new culture of education in Kosovo. Sustainable partnerships with schools, universities, public institutions, and private companies are a central part of our work, with the aim of building cooperation bridges that enhance the impact and long-term sustainability of our mission.
In 2018, as part of its commitment to spreading technological education in schools, BONEVET established the Kosovo Makers League. This initiative turned into the largest robotics competition in Kosovo. Through this league, thousands of students from public schools across the country have been involved in robotics competitions and activities that foster critical thinking, teamwork, and practical skills in technology, thus turning learning into a creative and inspiring experience for younger generations.
Looking ahead, BONEVET remains committed to its mission to empower new generations through innovative education. In a rapidly changing world, our vision is to always stay ahead of society’s needs by integrating artificial intelligence into educational programs to prepare young people for the job market.
We believe that the future is built by generations who dare to dream and create. Therefore, we will continue to support children and youth to discover their talents and develop them with passion, love and responsibility. With a sustainable approach and long-term vision, BONEVET will continue to be one of the strongest pillars of non-formal education in Kosovo.