UBT Participates in the Eighth Conference of the Balkan Universities Association
04/06/2024On June 4, 2024, UBT, which has been a member of the Balkan Universities Association for several years, participated in the Eighth Conference organized by the BUA in collaboration with the State University of Tirana, held in Tirana.
The main theme of the conference was: “The Balkans’ EU Integration Process: Promoting Tourism in the Balkans.” The event attracted the participation of distinguished figures from academic, governmental, and other relevant institutions.
Notable participants included:
- Prof. Dr. Edmond Hajrizi – Rector of UBT;
- Prof. Dr. Artan Hoxha – Rector of the University of Tirana;
- Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu – Rector of Trakya University;
- Majlinda Dhuka – Minister of State and Chief Negotiator for European Integration;
- Ogerta Manastirliu – Minister of Education and Sports.
The keynote speech on the topic “The European Integration Process of the Balkans” was delivered by Federica Mogherini, Rector of the College of Europe and former High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
The first panel discussions focused on the theme “The European Integration Process of the Balkans,” featuring prominent figures such as:
- Prof. Dr. Edmond Hajrizi – Rector of UBT;
- Gentian Elezi – Institute of European Studies, University of Tirana;
- Marian Preda – Rector of the University of Bucharest;
- Sorin Costreie – Vice-Rector of the University of Bucharest and President of UNICA (Network of Universities from the Capitals of Europe);
- Prof. Assoc. Dr. Enes Turbic – Trakya University.
In the main panel of the conference, UBT Rector Prof. Dr. Edmond Hajrizi emphasized the importance of convergence between Balkan countries and the European Union in terms of mutual support.
He pointed out that the Balkan countries should stop being merely recipients of aid and start exporting knowledge and experience, contributing to deeper and more sustainable cooperation.
“We should no longer only receive aid; we can also export knowledge, experience, and create convergence between countries. This type of collaboration will help raise joint capacities and improve living standards across all countries in the region,” said Rector Hajrizi.
During the conference, Rector Hajrizi held meetings and discussions with several key participants, exploring opportunities for establishing new and sustainable partnerships in the fields of education and scientific research.
He also discussed possibilities for joint projects that could contribute to the economic and social development of the Balkan region.
The conference served as a platform for sharing ideas and best practices, fostering dialogue and cooperation between universities and other higher education institutions from the Balkans and beyond.