Italian Design Day at UBT: Design as a Tool to Combat Inequality and Build a Better Future
10/03/2025As part of Italian Design Day, UBT organized a special conference dedicated to Architecture and Design students, as well as industry professionals, under the theme “Inequalities. Design for a Better Life.” This event provided an important opportunity to reflect on the role of design as a tool to address inequalities and create a more inclusive and fair environment for all.
The conference was held at UBT’s Science, Innovation, and Technology Park in Lipjan, bringing together students, academics, and professionals in architecture and design alongside internationally recognized experts. The keynote speaker was architect and designer Alessandro Mason, founder of Studio GISTO, who shared his innovative approaches and experiences in design with the audience.
Based on research and professional practice, Mason discussed how design can help reduce social inequalities and create spaces that promote inclusion, well-being, and a better quality of life for everyone. Discussions also focused on the impact of design on urban planning, social architecture, and the creation of sustainable cities, encouraging participants to envision a future where aesthetics and functionality go hand in hand with equality and social justice.
The event was attended by UBT Rector, Prof. Dr. Edmond Hajrizi, Italian Ambassador to Kosova, Antonello De Riu, and architect Gëzim Kastrati from the Municipality of Prishtina, who all emphasized the importance of the theme and the role of architecture and design in creating a more equitable world.
Rector Hajrizi described the event as an extraordinary opportunity for students to learn from experts and be inspired to implement tangible changes in architecture and design for a fairer society.
“Design is not just an art or profession, but a responsibility to society. It has the power to heal inequalities, build bridges of collaboration, and create spaces that reflect the values of justice and inclusion. Our students today are learning not only to create forms but to shape a better future for all. That is why at UBT we have developed specialized departments in Architecture, Design, Engineering, and Technology, which increasingly attract young people eager to build the future with creativity and innovation,” Rector Hajrizi said.
In his inspiring speech, Italian Ambassador Antonello De Riu quoted renowned architect Renzo Piano:
“Beauty is as essential as bread, and like bread, it must be accessible to everyone.”
He added that design is not merely an art or profession but a tool for social change, capable of redefining how people live, interact, and experience their surroundings.
“Design is not a privilege but a right – the right to a dignified life, to a just society, and to a sustainable planet. The future is in your hands, in the sketches and projects you create. Build cities that connect, homes that protect, and spaces that empower. When design is rooted in humanity, it is not just a tool to beautify life but to transform it fundamentally,” said Ambassador De Riu.
Architect Gëzim Kastrati, representing the Municipality of Prishtina, spoke about the importance of sustainable urbanism and the need for design that responds to the needs of all citizens without exclusion. He also recognized UBT’s role as a major center of innovation and education in architecture and design.
The event concluded with an interactive discussion session, where students shared their ideas and perspectives on inequality in design. They were encouraged to see architecture not merely as a profession but as a tool for building a more just and sustainable future.
Italian Design Day at UBT highlighted the power of design to positively influence society and create spaces that embody equality, inclusion, and social justice. The event also strengthened academic and professional collaboration between Kosova and Italy, opening the way for new ideas and projects aimed at building a better world for all.
