As part of the 27th BOKU–UBT Mission, particular attention was paid to the implementation and administration of the new Bachelor’s and Master’s programs at the Agricultural University of Tirana for the 2026–2027 academic year.
The discussions, held during the afternoon of the first day and throughout the second day of the mission, were led by Vice-Rector for Teaching, Prof. Dr. Ilir Kapaj, and Kristiana Gausterer-Hofmeister, MBA, Head of the Teaching Office at BOKU University of Vienna. The working sessions brought together staff from the UBT Office of Teaching and Students, as well as representatives of the Directorate of Internal Evaluation and Quality Assurance.
At the heart of the discussions was the experience gained during the 2025–2026 academic year through the implementation of 9 new Bachelor’s programs, which now serves as a foundation for the next phase of academic reform. For the new academic year, efforts are focused on implementing 3 additional new Bachelor’s programs, as well as the new Master’s programs at UBT.
The experience of the previous academic year was analyzed not only to assess the results achieved, but also to identify the needs and challenges that may arise during the implementation of the new academic offering. In this regard, the discussions focused on coordination between academic and administrative structures, the organization of processes, and the assurance of quality standards, drawing on BOKU’s practices and experience as a reference.
Another important issue addressed was the management of the student application process for the new Master’s programs. During the sessions, the approach to be followed for administering this process was defined. It will be managed by the Directorate of Teaching and Student Services, with the aim of establishing a process that is as clear and efficient as possible for applicants.
The work also included strengthening internal monitoring and quality assurance mechanisms, ensuring that the transition to the new academic structure is accompanied by consistent standards across all programs and more efficient administration of these programs.
At the conclusion of the discussions, BOKU reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its support for UBT, particularly for the directorates and offices directly involved in the implementation of the programs and quality assurance. This support will continue through the provision of the necessary consultancy and expertise during the subsequent stages of implementation.
These working sessions represent another concrete step in the implementation of UBT’s academic reform, shifting the focus from the development of new programs toward their practical implementation, efficient administration, and the assurance of quality for students.
