International Workshop in Architecture Begins at UBT

23/03/2026

An important international workshop has begun at UBT, bringing together local and international experts in the field of architecture and spatial planning as part of an academic collaboration.

The event was opened with welcoming remarks by the Rector of UBT, Edmond Hajrizi, the Dean of Studies at the Faculty of Architecture and Spatial Planning at TU Wien, Thomas Dillinger, and the Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at UBT, Binak Beqaj.

In their speeches, the importance of international cooperation and the development of higher education in Kosovo was emphasized, particularly during a period when the country was building its institutions and a modern educational system.

Rector Edmond Hajrizi shared one of the most meaningful moments in the development of the architecture program at UBT:

“It was a very important decision for me to return to Kosovo at a time when the country was building its society, state, institutions, and new education system. In this context, I saw it as essential to bring my experience from Vienna and launch a new program, initially with only seven students. Today, UBT has over 1,300 students. With the support of the Vienna University of Technology, the launch of the first master’s program in architecture and spatial planning in 2007–2008 was a bold step that has left a lasting impact,” said Rector Hajrizi.

This working week and workshop aim to strengthen academic cooperation, encourage the exchange of professional experiences, and advance study programs in line with international standards.

As part of this collaboration, the topic of national park planning in Kosovo and Austria for sustainable development has also been included. The first part of the workshop is being held in Kosovo, focusing on the “Bjeshkët e Nemuna” National Park, while the second part will take place at TU Wien, focusing on the Donau-Auen National Park in Vienna.

The workshop has brought together students, professors, and experts in the field of architecture and spatial planning, creating a platform for collaboration to address urban challenges and develop innovative ideas for cities.

As part of the activities, participants are working on concrete analyses of urban spaces in Peja, proposing sustainable and modern solutions in line with European urban planning standards. This international cooperation aims to strengthen knowledge exchange and contribute to the sustainable development of cities in Kosovo.