During June and July 2009, APD Shpresa implemented a project supported by the Small Project Assistance program, an opportunity made possible by USAID and Peace Corps Macedonia. For 8 weeks of the summer, 9 members attended 2 hour classes on the weekends to learn both English and Information Technology skills.

The classes were taught by Afrim Bajrami, with Blerim Rexhepi assisting students as well. The English lessons covered the beginners level of the spoken language, starting with learning the letter names of the English alphabet, introducing oneself, and basic sentences and questions in the past, present and future tenses.

Students learned to use Microsoft Office software during the IT sessions. The classes gave in depth instruction on how to use MS Word, Publisher and Powerpoint, which are important skills to have for future employment opportunities.

Each session was recorded on video to increase the reach of the project within the community. The recordings were edited into lessons ranging from 5-20 minutes, focusing on the main lessons of the project. All of these lessons were compiled into a DVD and distributed to the students who attended the courses over the summer so that they can practice and review what they have learned. The rest of the DVDs will be given to other members interested in learning more about English and IT, and the lessons will be available on the internet via APD Shpresa’s website in the near future.

November 25, 2009 marked the official end of the project with a small gathering to give out certificates. Sefer Hiseni, a member of APD Shpresa who works in the Municipality of Chair, spoke with the students about his experience living and working in the local community with a disability, empowering the students to continue their efforts to learn and improve their skills.