On 25 February 2026, SHER in partnership with UPCO Institute, organized the conference “AI, Innovation, and Collaboration for a Sustainable Future in Kosovo,” creating a dynamic platform for dialogue on the role of Artificial Intelligence and digital transformation in shaping Kosovo’s development. The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Ms. Merita Jonuzi, Head of Science Division of Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation; Mr. Adnan Ahmeti, Program Manager Education at Austrian Development Agency; Mr. Nehat Islami, Executive Director of UPCO Institute and Mr. Aqim Emurli, SHER Team Leader.

A central highlight of the conference was the keynote on “Smart Regulation: Field of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research and Collaboration between University, Industry and Public Sector,” delivered by Prof. Dr. Stefan Thalmann, SHER International Expert. His address emphasized the importance of establishing structured fields of excellence in AI as a foundation for interdisciplinary research and stronger cooperation across sectors. Smart regulation was presented not as a constraint, but as an enabling framework that can foster responsible innovation, strengthen institutional capacities, and create new opportunities for sustainable collaboration at both national and international levels, including Austria–Kosovo cooperation through SHER.

This forward-looking perspective was complemented by a dedicated focus on the Kosovo Digital Landscape, presented by Mr. Shpend Ahmeti, Co-founder of Data4X. The session offered insights into Kosovo’s evolving digital ecosystem, emerging data-driven opportunities, and the strategic steps needed to accelerate inclusive and sustainable digital transformation. The discussion highlighted both the progress achieved and the importance of coordinated action to fully harness AI’s potential.

The dialogue continued through two thematic panel discussions. The panel on “University–Industry–Public Sector Collaboration,” moderated by Mr. Nehat Islami, brought together Prof. Besnik Krasniqi, University of Prishtina; Mr. Besim Mustafa, Kosovo Chamber of Commerce; Prof. Asoc. Arbresha Meha, University of Applied Sciences in Ferizaj, and Mr. Muhamed Rexhepi, Innovation and Training Park – ITP. The discussion explored concrete pathways for strengthening partnerships, enhancing knowledge transfer, and building innovation ecosystems that translate research into tangible impact.

Meanwhile, the panel on “The State of Digital Transformation with AI,” moderated by Prof. Dr. Stefan Thalmann, featured Mr. Driton Hapçiu, co-founder of Cacttus; Mr. Ercan Canhasi, co-founder of Gjirafa; Mr. Besmir Krasniqi, European Digital HUB Kosovo, and Mr. Ermal Lubishtani, SHER Expert. The conversation examined Kosovo’s readiness for AI adoption, institutional and private sector capacities, and the shared responsibility required to advance a responsible and future-oriented digital agenda.

Overall, the conference reaffirmed that sustainable innovation in Kosovo depends on structured collaboration, smart frameworks, and a common vision for leveraging AI and digital transformation for long-term societal and economic development.