7th Meeting of Balkan Universities Association (BUA)

September 27^th-28^th 2023, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina

The 7th meeting of Balkan University Association's was hosted by University of Tuzla under the title " Academic Cooperation, Challenges and Future Perspectives in the Balkans" on September 27th -28th, 2023. The first day of the meeting started with the opening remarks.

The 7th meeting of Balkan University Association's was hosted by University of Tuzla under the title " Academic Cooperation, Challenges and Future Perspectives in the Balkans" on September 27th -28th, 2023. Balkan universities, and in total 168 participants attended the meeting.

Prof. Dr. Hadzigrahic, BUA-2023's President, expressed her profound honor in assuming the role of President for this esteemed association and overseeing its operations. She extended a warm welcome to all the distinguished guests and participants attending the conference. Rector Prof. Hadzigrahic underscored Tuzla University's shared strategic objectives in harmony with the Association's mission. The Rector added that this year's conference would convene approximately 30 specially-invited participants to deliberate on topics of paramount importance, including the Internationalization of Balkan Universities, European Integration, Youth Perspectives in the Balkans, and Contemporary Migration Issues.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sorin Costreie, Vice-Rector of the University of Bucharest and the President of UNICA underscored the shared responsibility to forge a promising future for students in the context of addressing the issue of student migration within the Balkans. He placed significant emphasis on the paramount importance of this gathering, where university representatives and political dignitaries convene, recognizing the vital role of merging academic prowess with political influence. He further underscored the critical significance of cultivating networks and the provision of academic programs conducted in English and other foreign languages.

Vice-Rector Assoc. Costreie accentuated the pivotal role played by the Balkan Universities Association as a substantial network within the region. He noted that meetings among Balkan universities possess the potential to significantly contribute to the advancement of a more prosperous society or lay the foundational groundwork for its realization. Furthermore, Associate Professor Costreie, who concurrently serves as the President of UNICA, an organization that unites universities from European capitals, highlighted the association's unique position as a convergence point where political influence converges with university administrations. He concluded his remarks by underscoring that the integration of universities, their collaborative efforts within associations, networks, consortia, and analogous platforms, will collectively foster a more favorable environment for collaboration among our esteemed academic institutions.

Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu - Rector of Trakya University and General Secretary of BUA said that "Our common cultural heritage and shared history render the Balkans a unique and significant region. It is imperative for the nations in this region to foster more frequent collaboration in order to collectively address the challenges that they face. I firmly believe that sometimes the most effective solutions can be found close to home rather than seeking answers from distant sources. As a result of the diligent efforts put forth by the Balkan Universities Network in Edirne during the early 2000s, the Balkan Universities Association was established in 2014. I have had the privilege of serving as the General Secretary of this association, which has made remarkable progress thanks to the invaluable contributions of many esteemed colleagues. Following the initial two meetings in Edirne, our subsequent gatherings have been equally fruitful. We convened with Sofia st. Kliment Ohridski University in Bulgaria, where constructive discussions took place. We then enjoyed a successful meeting with University of Tetova in North Macedonia, followed by a productive gathering with Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece. While the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our plans, we managed to host a significant meeting in Bucharest, Romania, in collaboration with the Black Sea Universities Association.

Today, we are gathered here in Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the atmosphere is both cordial and intellectually stimulating, as we engage in face-to-face discussions. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Prof. Dr. Nermina Hadzigrahic, the Rector of Tuzla University, for her warm hospitality, partnership, and for graciously hosting this meeting. I would also like to express my gratitude to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sorin Costreie, who has been an indispensable presence throughout this journey, for his unwavering support in preparing for this event. During our deliberations here, we will address pivotal topics, including the strategies through which universities can collaborate with various associations to enhance internationalization, methods to inspire and motivate the upcoming generation, and the critical issue of migration in the Balkans, encompassing both inward and outward migration flows.

It is paramount to acknowledge that universities play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our nations. Together, we stand stronger. I extend my utmost respect and warm regards to all esteemed participants present here and extend my gratitude to all those who have contributed to our collective efforts."

Mr. Zijad Lugavić, Mayor of Tuzla

Mr. Zijad Lugavić placed significant emphasis on the instrumental role that universities assume in driving regional development and underscored the critical importance of fostering collaborative endeavors. He articulated that the Balkan Universities Association would serve as a catalyst for such collaborations, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and culture among the countries within the region. Moreover, Mr. Lugavić highlighted the hosting of this conference by Tuzla University and underscored the Tuzla Canton Government's support for the university's campus project, thereby accentuating the paramount importance of investing in education and scientific advancement.

Mr. Irfan Halilagić, Prime Minister of Tuzla Canton

Mr. Irfan Halilagić, the Prime Minister of Tuzla Canton, emphasized the importance of internationalization and highlighted the support extended by Tuzla University and the Tuzla Canton Government toward this objective. Furthermore, Mr. Halilagić drew attention to the impact of internationalization in promoting collaboration among universities and encouraging student exchanges, addressing the tendency of young individuals to leave these regions, and advocating for measures to retain them within the region. Finally, he underscored the conference as an opportunity for regional knowledge and intellectual exchange and emphasized the need to strengthen inter-university connections.

SESSION I - DISCUSSION

Internationalization at the Balkans’ Universities: Potentials and Challenges

The First panel of the first day was over “Internationalization at the Balkans’ Universities: Potentials and Challenges”. The Vice-Rector of Universşity of Tuzla as the moderator of the panel Prof.Dr. Vesna Bratovcic emphasized the significance of principles such as collaboration, solidarity, and internationalization. She mentioned that they will discuss concrete examples that can promote future cooperation among Balkan universities and further internationalization of Balkan universities.

Prof. Dr. Agon Memeti, Vice-Rector of University of Tetova after expressing the need for the Balkan Universities Association to support internationalization, highlighted the importance of focusing on collaboration among universities, increasing student and academic mobility through scholarships, emphasizing excellence and innovation. Additionally, he proposed the establishment of an online repository and a platform where all universities can share learning materials, projects, and research. He mentioned that this platform aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experience among universities while also supporting future collaboration opportunities. Professor Memeti further stated that this platform could assist universities in leveraging their strengths and addressing their weaknesses, potentially serving as a foundation for future collaboration.

Prof. Dr. İsmail Kocayusufoğlu, Vice-Rector of Canadian Institute of Technology in Albania emphasized the importance of internationalization and acknowledges the pivotal role played by BUA (Balkan Universities Association) in this process. Additionally, he addressed the challenges of delivering education in the English language and how to effectively tackle this issue while also discussing strategies to motivate academics. During his presentation, Professor Dr. İsmail Kocayusufoğlu sheds light on the practices at his own institution, CIT (Canadian Institute of Technology), concerning their approach to delivering education in English. He highlighted the provision of supportive courses aimed at enhancing English language skills for students, in addition to courses taught exclusively in English. Finally, he proposed engaging in discussions about the impact of English-language education programs on cultural identity and how a balance can be struck between institutions offering education in different languages.

Professor Sabina Halupka-Rešetar, Vice-Rector of the University of Novi Sad, while sharing her experiences related to internationalization, emphasized that internationalization goes beyond mere mobility; it encompasses various dimensions. She underscored that universities possess international cooperation and networking opportunities, which extend beyond student mobility and encompass curriculum development, research collaboration, enrichment of teaching content, and more. In outlining the benefits of internationalization, Prof. Dr. Sabina Halupka-Rešetar highlighted the importance of curriculum enrichment, facilitating student mobility programs, fostering research collaboration, and promoting cultural diversity. She also pointed out the advantages of attracting foreign students to universities and how international students enrich campus life.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Benjamin Muhamedbegović, HEA Bosnia and Herzegovina

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Benjamin Muhamedbegović highlighted that their agency has been promoting international cooperation since its inception, with international cooperation being a separate criterion in accreditation standards. He emphasized the significance of collaboration agreements and their outcomes under this criterion. Furthermore, he expresseed that the impact of international cooperation on accreditation criteria and the importance of student mobility are also acknowledged. He mentioned that their agency provides support for international cooperation, has created a guide to contribute to Bosnia and Herzegovina's internationalization efforts, and aims to increase collaboration with other accreditation bodies in Europe. He stated that they are working towards enhancing the international recognition of higher education in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He noted an agreement with the Higher Education Quality Board of Türkiye (YÖKAK) and mentioned that a conference in Ankara, involving institutions from Balkan countries, had to be postponed due to an earthquake, which he sees as a positive example of their agency supporting and endorsing the outcomes of university collaboration.

Mr. Ahmed Omerovic, Minister of Education and Science of Tuzla Canton

Ahmed Omerovic mentioned that responsibility for higher education in Bosnia and Herzegovina lay at the cantonal, not the state level, which was why they had not prepared strategic documents at the national level. He expressed their support for the internationalization of Tuzla University. He acknowledged challenges with English within the administration, citing the introduction of English learning in the education system from the first grade, believing that significant improvements would be achieved in a few years. He emphasized the need for internationalization due to reasons such as collaboration and knowledge exchange with other world regions in a globalized world.

Ms. Altijana Mujić, Faculty of Information Technologies, Mostar, Futures Foundation

Altijana Mujić, speake from a student perspective, noted that students have learned to cope with challenges and develop efficient resource utilization skills. She emphasized the importance of collaboration with international universities and knowledge sharing.

Mr. Ahmed Omerovic, the Minister of Education and Science of Tuzla Canton

Ahmed Omerovic mentioned that in Bosnia and Herzegovina, responsibilities for higher education lie at the cantonal level, not the national level, which is why they did not prepare strategic documents at the national level. He stated their support for the internationalization of Tuzla University. He also acknowledged issues with English within the administration, noting that English learning begins in the education system from the first grade and expressing his belief that significant improvements would be achieved within a few years. He emphasized the need for internationalization due to reasons such as collaboration and knowledge exchange with other world regions in a globalized world.

Altijana Mujić, from the Faculty of Information Technologies at Mostar and representing the Futures Foundation,

She mentioned that as students, they have learned to cope with challenges and develop skills for effective resource utilization. She emphasized the importance of collaboration with international universities and the sharing of knowledge.

SESSION 1I- DISCUSSION

The Role of the University Networks in the European Integration of the Balkans

The second panel of the first day was over “The Role of the University Networks in the european Integration of the Balkans. As the moderatior of the panel, Assoc Prof. Dr. Sorin Costreie, Vice-Rector of the University of Bucharest and President of UNICA drew attention to the issues of international competition and cooperation among universities in the Balkans, emphasizing the importance of English proficiency in the region. Despite financial constraints, he aimed to provide solutions on how universities in the region can collaborate more effectively with European universities. He also discussesed the potential of university networks and consortia to enhance collaboration among Balkan universities. He believed that the participation of Balkan universities in such networks can improve the quality of education in the region and enhance international recognition. Therefore, he advocated for encouraging Balkan universities to seize these opportunities. Prof. Dr. Sorin Costreie emphasized that universities are important sources of expertise for policymakers, and this expertise should be utilized more effectively. He stated that despite their traditional institutional structures, universities are pioneers in innovation and therefore play a fundamental role in regional cooperation. Additionally, he claimed that university networks support regional cooperation and facilitate intergovernmental economic collaboration. Prof. Dr. Sorin Costreie highlighted that universities and university networks play a crucial role in societal cooperation and regional integration, and therefore, participation in these networks should be encouraged.

Prof. Dr. Sara Bernard Dosti, Vice-Rector of the University of Tirana

Prof. Dr. Sara Bernard Dosti mentioned that universities collaborate in two fundamental ways: through bilateral agreements and university networks. He explained that the University of Tirana has various bilateral agreements and is a member of nine university networks. However, he emphasized that the effectiveness of these agreements and university networks and the adequacy of collaboration levels are more important than just the numbers. Additionally, Vice-Rector pointed out that increasing collaboration among universities, which often look towards the West, is a challenge and requires more effort. He particularly emphasized the importance of establishing stronger collaboration among Balkan countries and encourages members to enhance collaboration through this organization.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Drekalovic, Member of the Senate of the University of Montenegro,

He highlighted that the University of Montenegro is a relatively young institution, founded 50 years ago. He points out that the university comprises 20 faculties located in 10 different cities. Furthermore, he acknowledged the university's weakness in terms of networks and mentions that it often relies on bilateral agreements, particularly Erasmus agreements. He expresseed their intention as a university to explore more opportunities for establishing connections with networks in the future.

In the panel, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sorin Costreie highlighted the importance of university cooperation through networks and alliances. He specifically mentioned their ongoing efforts to establish a Balkan Studies program and develop programs in sustainable development, emphasizing that joint programs could be facilitated through networks. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Costreie also underlined the challenges of creating joint programs in Europe due to national laws and stressed the need for modifications at the European level. Furthermore, he proposed initiating a discussion on academic integrity and ethical matters to ensure smooth collaboration between universities.

Prof. Dr. Fatih Gültekin, the Rector of Lokman Hekim University, suggested a more efficient approach to meetings by focusing on one or two critical issues, creating small working groups to address them, and collaboratively presenting solutions at subsequent meetings.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammed Yasir Göz, the Vice-Rector of the International University of Sarajevo, emphasized the importance of integrating universities in the Balkan countries and discussed the need for a unified curriculum, joint projects, and common education programs. He also emphasized the significance of enabling Balkan students to receive education in their own countries. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Drekalovic, a Senate Member of the University of Montenegro, addressed the practical problems caused by differences in curricula among European universities and highlighted past initiatives like the Erasmus program and the Bologna Process aimed at resolving these issues.

Prof. Aleksandar Skeparovski, Ph.D., Vice-Rector of Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, acknowledged the challenges in creating a unified curriculum among Balkan countries and suggested establishing general standards while using the Balkan Universities Association as a platform for collaborative problem-solving.

Prof. Dr. İsmail Kocayusufoğlu, the Vice-Rector of the Canadian Institute of Technology in Albania, stressed the importance of credit transfer in the Erasmus program and recommended implementing a credit recognition process to minimize issues for returning students.

7^th General Assembly of BUA

September 27^th 2023

Prof. Dr. Nermina Hadzigrahic, the Rector of Tuzla University and the President of BUA in 2023, greeted the BUA members and extended her warm welcome. She expressed her delight and confidence in serving as the President of BUA and officially opened the 7th BUA General Assembly Meeting. She also thanked Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu, the Rector of Trakya University, for his active role in the development and strengthening of BUA.

Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu, the Rector of Trakya University and the General Secretary of BUA, provided insights into the history and the work done within BUA from its inception to the present day. He mentioned that the foundations of Balkan Universities Association (BUA) were laid in the beginning of 2000s under the framework of the Balkan Universities Network, with Trakya University representatives engaging in visits and meetings with universities in the Balkans. He stated that the official establishment of BUA took place in 2014, with the first two meetings hosted by Trakya University. Those who participated in the first two meetings gained founding status, and subsequent participants were accepted as members.

Moreover, Prof. Dr. Tabakoğlu highlighted that the number of member universities increased to 58 after the 2015 meeting, and BUA initiated the publication of an e-bulletin for communication and collaboration among its members. He mentioned that the 3rd BUA Meeting was held at Sofia St. Kliment Ohridski University on October 24-25, 2017, raising the number of member universities to 61. During this meeting, decisions were made regarding the formation of sub-groups within BUA and the official registration of the union. Trakya University became a permanent member of the BUA Executive Committee unanimously.

Furthermore, he noted that the 4th BUA Meeting took place at Tetova University on March 30-31, 2018, leading to an increase in the number of member universities to 69. Prof. Dr. Tabakoğlu highlighted that the 5th BUA Meeting was hosted by Aristotle University of Thessaloniki on April 16-18, 2019, resulting in the formation of sub-working groups with the involvement of faculty members from medical, economics, and project management disciplines. The number of member universities reached 78 at the end of this meeting, and the signing ceremony of the BUA Statute was held. He also mentioned that, starting from 2020, the annual BUA meetings were not held due to the global impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, activities within BUA did not grind to a halt; instead, they continued with face-to-face Executive Committee meetings held in Istanbul and Edirne, alongside virtual meetings that delved into a range of matters concerning BUA's future, prospects for collaboration, and specifics regarding upcoming gatherings. Lastly, Prof. Dr. Tabakoğlu highlighted that the 6th BUA Meeting took place in Bucharest University, jointly organized with the Black Sea Universities Network (BSUN), under the theme "Dialogue and Cooperation in the Black Sea and Balkan Regions" from October 11^th to 15^th, 2022. At the conclusion of the meeting, the number of member universities increased to 87, and the congress was concluded with seven different sessions conducted by experts in their respective fields.

During the presentations, Prof. Dr. Cemal İbiş- Vice-Rector of Altınbaş University (Türkiye), Prof. Dr. İsmail Kocayusufoğlu- Vice-Rector of the Canadian Institute of Technology (Albania) and Prof. Dr. Fatih Gültekin- Rector of Lokman Hekim University (Türkiye), explained why their universities should become part of BUA. Additionally, Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu provided information about Boğaziçi University (Türkiye), while the details about the Bucharest University of Economic Studies (Romania) were presented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sorin Costreie. After the candidate universities introduced their activities and fields of work, a evaluation and voting process was conducted among the member universities. The candidate universities were unanimously accepted into the Balkan Universities Association (BUA). With the inclusion of the new members, the total number of BUA members reached 92.

A signing ceremony was held for the newly accepted members, attended by Prof. Dr. Gülfettin Çelik from Istanbul Medeniyet University, Prof. Dr. Peyami Çelikcan from Istanbul Istinye University, and Prof. Dr. Milenko Bevarda from the University of Mostar.

After the signing ceremony, BUA General Secretary and Rector of Trakya University, Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu, presented the Presidency Certificate to Prof. Dr. Nermina Hadzigrahic, the BUA 2023 President, and expressed his gratitude for her contributions to BUA.

Prof. Dr. Nermina Hadzigrahic, Rector of Tuzla University and President of BUA in 2023, expressed her honor and pride in serving as the BUA President. She emphasized the need to seize the opportunities that have arisen under BUA, which has rapidly grown into a respected community and union over the past nine years. Prof. Dr. Jasmin Suljagic, Vice-Rector of Tuzla University, announced that the deliberations and voting for the BUA presidency for 2024 would take place soon, and he passed the floor to Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu and Prof. Dr. Nermina Hadzigrahic.

 Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu shared details of visits and discussions held during the candidacy for the BUA presidency. He presented Tiran University, the oldest and largest university in Albania, as the candidate for the 2024 BUA presidency. Following the voting, Tiran University was unanimously accepted as the President of the Balkan Universities Association for 2024. The Presidential Handover Ceremony was then conducted, during which Prof. Dr. Nermina Hadzigrahic, the BUA President for 2023, handed over the symbol of the association to Prof. Dr. Artan Hoxha, Rector of Tiran University.

Prof. Dr. Bernard Dosti, Vice-Rector of Tiran University, conveyed greetings from Prof. Dr. Artan Hoxha, the newly appointed President, and expressed the importance of being honored with such a significant role. He also stated their commitment to starting preparations for a successful organization promptly.

The General Assembly Meeting concluded with a commemorative photograph of BUA members wearing academic gowns.

II. DAY

September 28th 2023

The third panel of the BUA Conference, organized by Tuzla University, addressed the topic of "Youth and Youth Participation in the Balkans." The panel was moderated by Prof. Dr. Vesna Bratovčić, Vice-Rector of Tuzla University, and featured numerous speakers, including Anaïs Girard, the French Counselor for the Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Samid Šarenkapić, Program Analyst at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Speakers from Tuzla University included Prof. Dr. Nermina Kravić, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Group Analyst at Tuzla University Clinical Center, and Prof. Dr. Meliha Bijedić from the Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation at Tuzla University.

Additionally, the following panelists participated in the discussion: Ajla Ruvić from the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports of Tuzla Canton; Mirela Omerović, Director of the IMPAKT Foundation; Ammar Grabić, Deputy Chairman of the Youth Council of Tuzla Canton; Ademir Ćosičkić, Young European Ambassador for the Western Balkans; Ajla Kuluglić, Young European Ambassador for the Western Balkans; Naida Salković, representative of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Medical Students' Association (BoHeMSA); Edelhida Dervišević Šehić, General Secretary of BRAVO BiH organization; and young entrepreneurs Lejla Burgić, Benjamin Mrkonjić, and Lejla Džinić Bešić.

The discussions from the third panel yielded the following conclusions: Young people play a crucial role as agents of change. The mental health of youth is vital in processes related to migration and social activism. Empowering youth economically, fostering collaboration, and inclusivity are essential aspects. The participation of young people in societal processes is a fundamental element in the development of a democratic society.

SESSION 2- DISCUSSION

Migrations in the Balkans: Challenges and Future Perspectives

Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu, Rector of Trakya University

In his address, Rector Prof. Dr. Erhan Tabakoğlu drew attention to the issues brought about by migration, stating, "Life in villages is rapidly declining. Young people tend to migrate to larger cities where there are more employment opportunities. This issue is not unique to the countries in the Balkans but is a challenge faced by Turkey and many countries worldwide as well. Migration holds significant importance, especially for the Balkans. Throughout history, this region has been host to numerous waves of migration and continues to be a place where migrants reside. Migration in the Balkans reflects both the riches and difficulties of this geography. This panel will examine the phenomenon of migration in the Balkans from the past to the present, addressing challenges and future perspectives." He recommended conducting research on the attitudes of young people in BUA member countries regarding migration.

Prof. Dr. Birol Çetin, Former President of the Turkish Historical Society and Faculty Member at Hacı Bayram Veli University

Prof. Dr. Birol Çetin, in his presentation titled "Migration Movements in the Balkans from Past to Present," emphasized that migration is a part of human history. He focused on migrations that occur today, apart from those driven by necessity. Prof. Çetin discussed the inclination of young people to leave villages, resulting in the depopulation of rural areas. He pointed out that this trend disrupts the balance between people and land, not only in the Balkans but also globally. While in the past, collective efforts were emphasized, the current trend leans toward individual struggle. This shift is not limited to the Balkans but is seen worldwide, and Prof. Çetin highlighted the importance of countries achieving self-sufficiency. Furthermore, Prof. Dr. Birol Çetin brought attention to the emerging concept of "home youth," which emphasizes the importance of countries becoming self-sufficient.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Deniz Eroğlu Utku, Faculty Member in Political Science and Public Administration at Trakya University

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Deniz Eroğlu Utku, in her presentation titled "The Balkan Route and the Securitization of Migration," emphasized that the Balkan route is the most active migration route and its central location in Turkey is of special importance. She discussed significant global conflicts such as "9/11" that have contributed to migration processes. Assoc. Prof. Eroğlu Utku underscored that the right to asylum is a fundamental human right. In conclusion, she stressed the importance of developing policies that combine state security and human security in addressing migration.

Lecturer Dr. Enes Turbic, Balkans Research Institute at Trakya University

Lecturer Dr. Enes Turbic, in his presentation titled "Future Perspectives on Migration in the Balkans," highlighted that migration processes in the Balkans have been a well-known phenomenon. He pointed out that the dissolution of Yugoslavia and subsequent wars in the 1990s led to significant population migration. Dr. Turbic noted that over a million people migrated from Bosnia and Herzegovina alone. Among the reasons for recent migrations in the Western Balkans, he mentioned economic conditions, political instability, and national issues. Dr. Turbic also discussed population decline in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and Serbia, indicating the potential challenges these countries may face in sustaining their systems in the coming years. He concluded his presentation with a reference to a poem by Aleksa Šantić, a Bosnian poet, titled "Stay Here."

Prof. Dr. Erkan Erdemir, Rector of Tiran New York University

Prof. Dr. Erkan Erdemir, in his presentation titled "The Impact of Migration on Higher Education in the Balkans," addressed the issue of depopulation, emphasizing that it not only means the loss of people but also the loss of dynamics that shape the progress and future of society. He considered this problem a significant societal and strategic issue that requires solutions.

CLOSING CEREMONY

The participants in this meeting were thanked, and the meeting was concluded with the hope of meeting again in Tirana at the next gathering.

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