The Faculty of Economics at the University of Prishtina ‘Hasan Prishtina’ is hosting the 2nd Balkan Economic Review Conference, with the support of UNDP Kosovo. This year’s conference is dedicated to ‘migration, diaspora and economic development’. 

In the great amphitheatre of the Economics’ Faculty, representatives from the University, UNDP Kosovo, international universities and Kosovo institutions, addressed the students. University Rector, Marjan Dema opened the conference, welcoming students, travelling academia and other guests. 

Alessandra Roccasalvo, UNDP Kosovo Deputy Resident Representative, spoke to the students on the importance of education, not only within Kosovo but globally, and the supporting role that UNDP Kosovo plays.

“Nothing is more important than education, whether that is at a University or a vocational school. Our education develops our skills and capacities and prepares young people for the job market” she said. 

“UNDP Kosovo will continue supporting employment initiatives in Kosovo, with a focus on developing young people into professionals.” 

But Dedaj, Dean of the Economics’ faculty, said that progress in Kosovo is visible and that for the first time, the university has international students studying in English.

“We are progressing every day, we have now students from Egypt and Tanzania, and we are already thinking about the next conference, which will be on renewable energy.”

The conference was supported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and Izmi Zeka, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, stated that migration is a very important issue for Kosovo, and a carefully prepared strategy should be implemented. 

Srdjan Redzepagic, Professor at University Cote d’ Azur, was pleased by the efforts made in Kosovo to develop education and emphasized the importance of ensuring excellence in this sphere. He also announced the new partnership between University Cote d’ Azur and the University of Prishtina, which will benefit student mobility and education. 

Students will also have, for the first time, the ability to submit proposals to the newly established Balkan Economic Review scientific journal. A peer-reviewed journal focusing on economics and social sciences. 

The conference will run from the 15th – 16th November, with eight different sessions, featuring distinguished regional and international speakers.