On 2 December 2025, the SHER Programme was pleased to support the organization of the 3rd Regional Economic Forum – Dukagjini (FER-D), held in Peja. The event brought together representatives from academia, government, business, and civil society to strengthen Triple Helix cooperation and promote innovation-driven development in the region.

The forum opened with official remarks by the Rector of the University ‘Haxhi Zeka’ in Peja, Prof. Dr. Armand Krasniqi; the Minister of Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), Ms. Arbërie Nagavci; the Deputy Minister of Ministry for Regional Development, Mr. Ali Tafarshiku; Acting Director General of Kosovo Investment and Entrepreneurship Support Agency (KIESA), Mr. Zef Dedaj; and the SHER Team Leader, Mr. Aqim Emurli. Their interventions highlighted the crucial role of universities in advancing a knowledge-based economy and underscored the importance of deeper institutional collaboration.

Throughout the day, participants heard from respected speakers from Kosovo and the region who shared insights on sustainable economic development, the role of knowledge and innovation in shaping competitive economies, the importance of efficient public investment in science, and the connections between academia and the private sector. Topics ranged from artificial intelligence applications in economic sectors to contemporary methods for identifying labor market needs, offering a comprehensive view of the opportunities and challenges facing the Dukagjini region.

The forum concluded with a closing summary address by Prof. Dr. Avdulla Alija, SHER expert, who summarized the key messages of the day and emphasized the continued need for joint efforts between universities, government institutions, and the private sector to foster innovation and long-term regional development.

SHER remains committed to supporting such initiatives that build stronger partnerships and contribute to a more sustainable and competitive future for Kosovo.