The reconstruction of a building serves two primary purposes. Firstly, it aims to maintain and restore the functionality of the existing structure, while the second objective is to rejuvenate or “revitalize” the building, providing new possibilities and identifying functions that complement the surrounding environment. This process enhances the value of the building, offering economic and social benefits to the community and the project developers. An example of this can be seen in Mat Municipality, where, with financial support from the European Union under the “EU for Municipalities” grant scheme, the outdated “Shefqet Doda” Palace of Culture was renovated and, at the same time, the Innovation Center (ICTe-Mat) was established on its premises.
The Palace of Culture, named after the first conductor from Mat, has been completely transformed today, offering new services to 5,000 community members. The reconstructed building has already been equipped with new ballet and music halls, an art gallery, and a conference hall. The facade of the building has been completely renovated as well. The municipality hopes to revitalize Burrel’s cultural and artistic life by providing a fresh appearance and services at the Palace of Culture.
The ICTe-Mat: Innovation and Culture to Empower Mat project also aimed to establish a youth center focused on technology and innovation. Since its opening, the robotics, design, and coding courses have been popular among enthusiastic young people and children eager to learn about technology.
Dea Basha, a 17-year-old with a passion for technology, expresses how the training sessions at the ICTe-Mat Innovation Center have significantly impacted her personal growth. Engaging in 3D design, scratch coding, and robotics workshops has enabled her to acquire new skills and enhance her creativity in the field of technology. Furthermore, the collaborative nature of this platform has provided her with the opportunity to work on innovative projects in a stimulating environment. The entire project of the Municipality of Mati utilized a total of 238,000.00 euros, with 199,920.00 euros coming from the European Union. The budget was allocated for various purposes, including the reconstruction of the Palace of Culture, the establishment and equipping of the ICT Center, ICT skills training, workshops focusing on youth and European integration, as well as the training and employment of two municipal employees. Additionally, the staff of the municipality in Burrel received training during the project implementation. Elson Reçi, the director of the Directorate of Public Services and project coordinator for the Municipality of Mati, provided a comprehensive overview of how “EU for Municipalities” has contributed to enhancing local capacity. The “EU for Municipalities” project has not only invested in reconstructed facilities like the innovation center, art gallery, and ballet hall but has also provided a wide array of services aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and capabilities of local institutions. These services encompass training sessions for municipal staff, which play a crucial role in their professional and personal growth, consequently benefiting the institutional progress of the municipality.
The training sessions cover various aspects such as enhancing communication skills, time management, teamwork, and collaboration, along with sessions focusing on developing intercultural interaction skills. Through the provision of technical assistance and training in key areas, the “EU for Municipalities” project has significantly contributed to bolstering capacities and project management at the local level,” says Reçi. We are optimistic that the modernized Palace of Culture and the establishment of the Technology and Innovation Center will help to improve social and economic conditions, ultimately leading to a better quality of life for the residents of Mat Municipality.
