The Public International Business College Mitrovica (IBCM), in cooperation with the Kosovo Erasmus+ Office (KEO), organized the “Forum for Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe Stakeholders” on 08 May 2026 at the IBCM Riverside Campus, marking Europe Day through dialogue, cooperation, and academic exchange.

The event brought together academic staff, students, and partners from other universities and institutions, creating a platform for discussion on opportunities within Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe programmes, with a particular focus on international cooperation, academic excellence, institutional development, and research collaboration.

The forum was opened with introductory remarks by Prof. Dr. Mihone Kerolli Mustafa, Rector of IBCM, and Ms. Mimika Dobroshi, Head/Coordinator of the Kosovo Erasmus+ Office, who emphasized the importance of European programmes in strengthening higher education systems and fostering international partnerships.

“As higher education continues to evolve in an increasingly interconnected world, programmes such as Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe remain essential in building bridges between institutions, researchers, and students across Europe,” stated Prof. Dr. Mihone Kerolli Mustafa, Rector of IBCM.

Ms. Mimika Dobroshi, Head/Coordinator of the Kosovo Erasmus+ Office, highlighted the impact of European cooperation programmes by stating:

“Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe create valuable opportunities for students, researchers, and institutions to grow, collaborate, and contribute to a stronger European educational and research community.”

As part of the programme, Prof. Asst. Bujar Gallopeni, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, and Prof. Dr. Ekrem Gjokaj, Vice Rector for International Cooperation, Projects, Innovation and Scientific Research, delivered presentations highlighting the role of Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe in enhancing academic excellence, building institutional capacity, and advancing strategic partnerships and research initiatives within the European Higher Education and Research Area.

The participation of students and partner universities was highly appreciated, contributing to meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the sharing of best practices across institutions.

The event concluded with presentations, discussions, and an interactive question-and-answer session, further encouraging collaboration and future engagement within European education and research frameworks.

Through initiatives such as this forum, IBCM continues to strengthen its role in internationalization and actively contributes to European academic and research cooperation.