On 08 November 2024, the University of Prishtina (UP) and the Sustainable Higher Education and Research in Kosovo (SHER) Programme officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The ceremony was officially addressed by Prof. Dr. Arben Hajrullahu, Rector of University of Prishtina, Mr. Adnan Ahmeti, Program Manager Education, Austrian Development Agency – Coordination Office in Prishtina, and Mr. Aqim Emurli, Team Leader of the SHER Programme.

The MoU establishes a formal framework for collaboration, with a focus on implementing joint activities, expert support, and capacity-building initiatives to enhance UP’s academic and research development. This partnership will facilitate the integration of research, policy, and university development, with the shared goal of creating a more sustainable, evidence-based, and gender-responsive higher education system in Kosovo.

Rector Hajrullahu expressed sincere gratitude for Austria’s long-standing support, which has been essential to the development of education, language, and culture in Kosovo and the wider Balkans. He emphasized how Austria’s contributions have been foundational in strengthening Kosovo’s educational and cultural ties with the region. Looking forward, Rector Hajrullahu reaffirmed his commitment to the newly signed MoU, expressing enthusiasm for deepening this partnership to further advance the University of Prishtina’s academic and research goals.

Mr. Ahmeti highlighted the importance of performance-based financing as a key focus of the SHER Programme. He noted that while areas such as internationalization and quality assurance are also important, performance-based financing is essential for ensuring greater accountability and efficiency in the use of resources. By aligning funding with performance outcomes, the programme will help strengthen Kosovo’s higher education institutions and ensure they are equipped to meet future challenges.

Lastly, Mr. Emurli, provided further insights into SHER’s objectives, and also explained that SHER’s core interventions include strengthening governance structures at public higher education institutions (HEIs), improving research capacities, and promoting closer ties between academia, the private sector, and the broader community. He highlighted that by supporting UP in strategic development and governance, we are investing in Kosovo’s long-term educational and economic future.

The signing of this MoU represents the beginning of an exciting new phase in the partnership between UP and SHER. This collaboration will support UP in achieving its academic, research, and strategic development goals through joint initiatives, expert support, and capacity-building efforts. At the same time, it will contribute to Kosovo’s broader higher education reform agenda, ensuring the sector continues to grow and evolve in line with global standards.