Fostering Regional Collaboration: SHUKALB and ADKOM Unite in Ohrid for Peer Exchange on the D-LeaP Access to Financing Program

On June 23, 2025, trainers from SHUKALB and ADKOM (North Macedonia) gathered in the picturesque city of Ohrid for a landmark Peer Exchange, organized by the International Association of Water Service Companies in the Danube Region, IAWD,  under the umbrella of the Regional Capacity Development Network (RCDN) project. Hosted at Hotel Belvedere, the event focused on sharing experiences from the Danube Learning Partnership (D-LeaP) Access to Financing (AF) Program, enhancing regional collaboration, and driving programmatic improvements through structured reflection and dialogue.

This peer exchange marked a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between the two D-LeaP hubs, aiming to solidify cross-border trainer collaboration and build a strong foundation for future joint initiatives. Moderated by Danche Josheska and Ariola Isufaj, the one-day event offered a well-structured platform for interactive learning and peer engagement.

The day opened with a welcoming session and an overview of the agenda, setting a clear tone of openness and mutual learning. Trainers from both SHUKALB and ADKOM presented their experiences with implementing the AF Program, highlighting achievements and acknowledging key challenges encountered in their respective national contexts.

Participants then engaged in a series of dynamic group discussions and workshops, where they analyzed barriers, proposed actionable solutions, and reflected on what has worked well — and what could be improved. The peer-learning session in the afternoon provided a valuable opportunity for trainers to exchange practical tools, tested methodologies, and success stories from the field.

Throughout the exchange, it became evident that structured reflection and experience-sharing are not just beneficial, but essential for strengthening collaboration between D-LeaP hubs. By candidly discussing what works and what doesn’t, participants were able to generate a shared understanding of effective practices and define concrete recommendations for future rollouts of the AF Program.

The event concluded with a wrap-up session and participant feedback, closing the day with renewed motivation and a collective sense of direction. As SHUKALB and ADKOM look ahead, the connections and lessons cultivated in Ohrid will serve as a strong catalyst for deeper cooperation and continued impact in the water and sanitation sector across the region.