From July 21–25, 2025, Skopje welcomed a new generation of dedicated professionals during the second Generic Training of Trainers (ToT) for Master Trainers, held at Hotel Holiday Inn. This intensive five-day training brought together Master Trainers nominated by RCDN partner associations both from Associations of Public Utility Companies (APUCs) and Local Government Associations (LGAs) with a shared mission: to scale up local capacity development through high-quality, peer-led training.
The goal? To strengthen national training capacities by equipping Master Trainers with the skills, tools, and mindset to act as mentors and multipliers within their institutions and networks. Guided by RCDN Quality Standards, the training focused on advanced adult learning principles, curriculum development, facilitation techniques, and the role of Master Trainers in ensuring consistent, impactful learning experiences.
A Training with Purpose
Built around the RCDN Training Management Cycle, the agenda allowed participants to explore the full lifecycle of training from needs assessment to delivery and evaluation.
Through practical exercises such as group work, role plays, simulations, and peer feedback sessions, participants had the opportunity not only to learn, but to apply and demonstrate their skills in real time.
The training was delivered by the experienced teams from NALAS and GIZ, with strong emphasis on co-creation and mutual learning.
Local Voices, Regional Impact
Participants came from across the Western Balkans, representing diverse professional backgrounds from municipal officials to utility engineers. Notably, Young Water Professionals from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo were among the participants, adding new energy and future-focused perspectives to the group. Their feedback illustrates the real and lasting impact of the RCDN approach.
“RCDN programs empower emerging professionals with practical tools, regional perspectives, and confidence to lead change. Local expertise ensures relevance and ownership.”— Mirnes Custovic, PUC Vodostan Ilijas, BiH
“This training helped me prepare my next session with greater clarity. The methodological approach, combined with RCDN standards, really elevates the quality of delivery.” — Dragana Grandic Aleksic, WWTP Krusevac, Serbia
“RCDN Quality Standards have transformed my training approach. They bring structure, consistency, and focus on measurable outcomes.” — Elisa Nikaj, NAMA, Albania
“As a Master Trainer, I’m proud to support national associations in becoming stronger, more connected, and more responsive to the real needs on the ground.” — Danche Josheska, PUC Prilep, North Macedonia
“RCDN has established a solid, quality-assured platform that empowers young professionals like me with the skills, mindset, and confidence to grow into effective trainers and future leaders.” — Erdonita Humolli Vitija, SHUKOS, Kosovo
This event is part of RCDN’s broader vision to strengthen the capacities of public utilities and local government associations in the Western Balkans, fostering long-term sustainability, cross-sector collaboration, and responsive service delivery. By building a strong pool of qualified Master Trainers, RCDN is investing in local ownership, reducing reliance on external expertise, and ensuring the continuity of high-quality capacity development services.
As the newly trained Master Trainers return to their associations, they bring not only knowledge and skills but also a renewed commitment to strengthening water and sanitation services, one training at a time.
