UBT Rector, Keynote Speaker at the International Scientific Conference of the Pedagogical Institute of Kosova

18/09/2025

Within the framework of the International Scientific Conference on the theme: “Lifelong Learning: An Inclusive Approach from Early Childhood to Vocational Education”, organized by the Pedagogical Institute of Kosova, the Rector of UBT, Prof. Dr. Edmond Hajrizi, was the keynote speaker, where he shared his vision for the transformation of education in Kosova and the region.

In his address, Rector Hajrizi emphasized that the university level alone is not enough to build a functional system, but it is essential to link it with pre-university education.

“The process of building an inclusive educational system has not been sufficient with higher education alone. We also needed to create a pre-university system so that pupils and students can have easier access to the labor market,” he said.

He spoke about the shift from traditional classrooms to digital ones, presenting the innovative concepts also developed at UBT:

Classroom 2.0 – with laboratories, computers, spaces for gaming, hackathons, and practical experiments.

Classroom 3.0 – which introduced the virtual dimension and 3D perception, enhancing students’ knowledge and competencies.

Classroom 4.0 – the most advanced system, integrating all smart technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

“From the traditional classroom we moved to Classrooms 2.0 and 3.0, while today we are able to implement Classroom 4.0, where students experience the competencies of the future in a real and immediate way,” said Rector Hajrizi.

He added that for Kosova, this transformation has been of great importance, as new technologies have made education more accessible and more affordable.

“Through digitalization, we have reduced the cost of education by up to 60%. Education today is faster, more accessible, and more connected to the needs of the labor market,” he emphasized.

Another key point he raised was the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the entire educational structure of UBT.

“We have integrated AI into the whole structure of UBT, creating a unique center in the Western Balkans, where students and pupils are required to use the technologies of the future,” stressed Rector Hajrizi.

The conference continued with a panel discussion on the topics addressed by the keynote speakers. It was underlined that despite technological developments, the role of the family, generations, and society cannot be eliminated, as they remain fundamental elements of the traditional education model.