Skill Up Academy, the winning initiative of the 2024 B4Students Social Clubs call, is a project designed to equip students with essential life skills and practical knowledge to succeed in today’s fast-paced world.

The project was created by a passionate team of students—Armelda Ago, Armando Lekaj, and Esmeralda Sherifi—who share a commitment to improving student life. Their experiences in youth activities and student councils inspired them to address key gaps in education through a program that combines real-world applications with personal development.

Skill Up Academy offers a series of engaging lectures on topics such as effective communication, financial literacy, developing a winning mindset, leadership, and balancing study, work, and life. Led by experienced mentors, these sessions provide students with practical tools they can immediately use to enhance their lives and seize opportunities.

“Our goal is to prepare students not just for exams but for life,” says Armelda Ago,  nursing student and Academic Senate member. “We want to give them the skills they need to thrive.”

The team’s collaborative vision has already gained recognition through the B4Students program, which supports innovative student-led initiatives. Skill Up Academy is set to empower hundreds of students, fostering leadership and resilience while creating a stronger, more connected youth community.

Skill Up Academy is not just a project—it’s a platform for growth, a bridge to opportunities, and a catalyst for positive change among Albania’s students.

Want to know more about the students behind Skill Up Academy?

Armelda, Armando and Esmeralda:
We met during student activities, where we shared a common passion and commitment to improving the conditions of student life. We consistently participated in initiatives that promote youth development and empower students. Our shared experiences in this field helped us build strong trust and a mutual understanding of the needs of youth and students. When we came across the B4Students call, we discussed several ideas for potential projects, and ultimately decided to undertake an initiative that would enhance students’ skills through the “Skill Up Academy”. This project provides students with in-depth, practical knowledge about key aspects of modern life.

Armelda Ago
My name is Armelda Ago, and I am a Nursing student at the University of Medicine, driven by a vision to bring meaningful improvements to the fields of healthcare and education. My role as a senator in the Academic Senate has given me the opportunity to represent the voice of students, working toward the creation of a more inclusive and supportive academic environment. Activism is an integral part of my life, involving engagements in various projects focused on youth development and the promotion of social equality. Beyond my studies, my passions include reading, a gateway to the world and personal growth, as well as helping others through my professional and personal skills. For me, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and improve, always following the principle that success is not a destination but a journey to leave a positive impact on the lives of others.
Armando Lekaj
My name is Armando Lekaj, an activist for youth and student rights in the country. I hold a bachelor’s degree in “Finance-Accounting” from the University of Shkodra “Luigj Gurakuqi.” Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Science degree in “Public Administration” at the Faculty of Economics, University of Tirana. Professionally, I am engaged with the Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, while also serving as an assistant to the Chair of the Subcommittee on Public Sector Auditing in the Parliament of Albania. I am also the former General Chair of the Student Councils at the University of Shkodra.
Esmeralda Sherifi
My name is Esmeralda Sherifi, and I am a Sociology student at the University of Tirana. With a passion for helping those in need, my involvement in youth activities and social projects has been an integral part of my journey. Through these experiences, I have learned the importance of solidarity and action in bringing about positive changes in the community. Currently, I have decided to run for the Student Council, aiming to address the challenges students face and to create a more supportive and inclusive university environment. I believe that every opportunity should be embraced, as small steps pave the way to success.