The Agricultural University of Tirana, in collaboration with Polis University, organized the Regional Workshop on Innovation, Research and Strategic Development entitled “Innovation Today for a European Future in the Balkans,” held on February 16–17, 2026. The event brought together academics, experts, institutional representatives, and professionals from the region and Europe, with the aim of strengthening inter-university cooperation and promoting the development of innovation and applied research.
In the opening session, the Rector of the Agricultural University of Tirana, Prof. Dr. Fatbardh Sallaku, emphasized the importance of the role of universities in building innovation ecosystems and aligning higher education with European strategic priorities, highlighting the academic transformation process that UBT is undertaking through internationalization and by linking education with economic and sustainable development.
The Vice Rector for Science and Projects at UBT, Prof. Dr. Erinda Lika, presented the topic “Shaping the Future of Life Sciences at the Agricultural University of Tirana: Advancing Research, Teaching and Higher Education.” She highlighted the academic reforms undertaken by UBT in cooperation with BOKU University of Vienna, aimed at modernizing study programs, strengthening scientific research, and aligning higher education with European standards, thereby preparing professionals capable of addressing the challenges of the agro-environmental and life sciences sectors.
Continuing the discussions on the technological transformation of agriculture, Prof. Dr. Endrit Kullaj presented the topic “Towards a Digital Agricultural Ecosystem in Albania: Policy, Education and Practice,” addressing the importance of digitalization, data utilization, and technological innovation in the development of modern agriculture. The presentation emphasized the need to harmonize public policies, university education, and field practices in order to build a more efficient and competitive agri-food sector.
The workshop served as a platform for the exchange of experiences and best practices among universities and international experts, strengthening regional cooperation in the fields of innovation, education, and sustainable development. Through this event, the Agricultural University of Tirana reaffirmed its role as a key academic actor in the region, committed to building bridges between education, scientific research, and industry, as well as to advancing a university model oriented toward innovation, internationalization, and European integration.
