On May 7, 2026, the results of a joint project carried out in cooperation between the “Haxhi Zeka” University in Peja, “Aleksandër Moisiu” University, and the Canadian Institute of Technology were presented at the premises of Haxhi Zeka University. The project focused on exploring the potential and opportunities for inter-university cooperation across the countries of the Western Balkans.
As part of the project, findings related to higher education legislation and other legal and regulatory documents in several Western Balkan countries — including Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and North Macedonia — were presented. The findings showed that most higher education-related documents in these countries are outdated and that greater efforts are needed to improve legislation and harmonize regulations with the European Higher Education Area.
The statistical analysis findings were also presented by Associate Professor Dr. Llambi Prendi, Dean of the Faculty of Economics at “Aleksandër Moisiu” University. His presentation focused on data collected through questionnaires regarding the contribution of scientific projects implemented in the Western Balkans and their impact on society. In this regard, Professor Dr. Ermira Qosja made an important contribution to the collection of more than 550 questionnaires.
Dr. Oliana Sula presented, in addition to the relevant documentation, findings showing that most universities in the region do not give sufficient importance to the university’s third mission. According to her, this mission is not adequately addressed as a separate chapter within official university statutes and regulations.
Meanwhile, Dr. Luftim Cania emphasized that several focus groups had been organized within the framework of the project, and that their results had been used to identify opportunities for cooperation and the development of new projects across the Western Balkans.
At the end of the event, a discussion was held regarding the project findings and outcomes. PhD candidate Denis Xheleku also presented an original website created by the Canadian Institute of Technology, which is expected to serve as a platform for the development of future projects. During the discussions, participants concluded that there are numerous opportunities for developing joint projects and applying to international programs such as Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe, both of which support higher education initiatives.
The delegation from Albania included Associate Professor Dr. Llambi Prendi, Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Professor Dr. Ermira Qosja, Dr. Oliana Sula, Dr. Luftim Cania, PhD candidate Denis Xheleku, and other representatives of the Canadian Institute of Technology. The entire presentation was moderated by Dr. Bledar Komina, the project coordinator.
The delegation was welcomed by Professor Dr. Edmond Beqiri, Vice Rector for International Cooperation at “Haxhi Zeka” University; Associate Professor Alma Shehu-Lokaj, Vice Rector for Teaching, Science and Student Affairs; Associate Professor Ylber Januzaj, Dean of the Faculty of Business; Assistant Professor Driton Zylqja, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Business; Associate Professor Suada Ajdarpašić, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Business; Professor Mersiha Kalac-Kacamaković, member of the Governing Council of Haxhi Zeka University; Assistant Professor Bashkim Nurboja, member of the University Senate; Assistant Professor Zijad Sabotić; as well as other professors from the Faculty of Business, students involved in various university projects, and supporting university staff.
