On September 14 and 15, 2023, Haxhi Zeka University in Pejë, with the support of HERAS+, organized the First Conference of the Regional Economic Forum – Dukagjini (FER-D): A Discussion Forum on Higher Education and Regional Economic Development in Kosovo. Partners of this forum include the Municipalities of Pejë, Deçan, Istog, Klinë, Junik, and Malishevë.
The Rector of HZU, Prof. Dr. Armand Krasniqi, opened the conference by welcoming the participants and presenting the initiative for FER-D. The Rector’s address was followed by ministers, deputy ministers, representatives of the HERAS+ project, as well as mayors, deputy mayors, and representatives of the municipalities.
First Day of FER-D
The first day of the conference was held at Hotel Dukagjini in Pejë and was attended by a large number of participants from central and local institutions, embassies, higher education institutions, and businesses.
The day was divided into two sessions with keynote speakers and panelists. Speakers and panelists of the first session were:
- Prof. Dr. Klodiana Gorica from the University of Tirana,
- Prof. Dr. Renata Kongoli from the Agricultural University of Tirana,
- Mr. Blerim Gjeladini, founder of Terra World, and
- Mr. Ali Tafarshiku, Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Regional Development.
The topics discussed focused on the strategic framework for economic development in Kosovo and the role of higher education institutions, as well as local economic development based on experiences from other countries.
The speakers and panelists of the second session, titled University Cooperation with Local Governance and Businesses: Challenges and Opportunities, were:
- Mr. Skënder Thaqi from Magra Austria,
- Ms. Zana Lipoveci Kastrati from Elkoos Group, and
- Mr. Shefqet Dervishaj from the Kosovo Tax Administration.
Based on the discussions of the first day, the presence and contribution of governmental institutions, municipal governance, and businesses were seen as a promising signal for further developments in:
- Greater involvement of universities as sources of expertise in planning and participation in local and regional development activities, and
- More adequate addressing of community needs by universities through training and specialization programs.
Conclusions and Recommendations from the First Day
The discussions led to several conclusions and recommendations, emphasizing:
- Increased attention to curriculum development in line with international trends,
- Addressing the Sustainable Development Goals, national and local priorities,
- Harmonization of university curricula with vocational education,
- Development of appropriate cooperation models with institutions and businesses,
- Creation of start-up and spin-off companies and proper organizational structures within universities,
- Addressing intellectual property issues and establishing technology transfer centers or offices,
- Participation of universities in drafting national and local strategies and joint development projects,
- Strengthening networking and attracting funding, particularly from the EU,
- Targeted scientific research and encouragement of innovation,
- Direct interaction with businesses to identify needs for training and specialization and to bridge the gap between educational supply and labor market demand, and
- Utilization of opportunities offered by digitalization, including tourism promotion.
Second Day of FER-D
The second day of the FER-D conference was held in the Municipalities of Deçan and Junik. Discussion points with municipal representatives included:
- Involvement of universities in local planning and policy and program design,
- Participation of higher education institutions in local development activities,
- Utilizing the presence of the university for expertise in planning and implementation, and
- Municipal perspectives on future cooperation, challenges, and opportunities.
In the first part of the day, the management of HZU and other representatives were received by the Mayor of Deçan, Mr. Bashkim Ramosaj, and his team, who presented the work and achievements of the municipality. This was followed by a discussion on University–Municipality cooperation through FER-D.
The second part of the day was held in the Municipality of Junik, where representatives of HZU were received by the Mayor, Mr. Ruzhdi Shehu, and his team. Discussions focused on municipal activities, development potential, and readiness for close and fruitful cooperation between the municipality and the university.
FER-D as the Beginning of a Successful Tradition
Overall, the two-day conference was assessed as successful and represents the beginning of an important event that aims to become a lasting tradition. HZU and FER-D will build on the ideas and initiatives arising from these discussions, which will be reflected in future university planning. The main goal is for HZU to be at the forefront of direct interaction with businesses and society, promoting economic growth and social development, and fulfilling the University’s Third Mission.
