For two consecutive days, representatives of the Metropolitan University of Tirana, Dr. Igli Hakrama, Head of the “Metropolitan” Innovation Center, and Ms. Esmeralda Doku, took part in TechMomentum – the 9th Forum of Advanced Technologies, held at the Science and Technology Park (STP) in Niš.
This year, the main focus of the forum was Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on transforming various sectors of society and the economy. The event brought together researchers, industry experts, innovators, and public sector representatives from across the Western Balkans and beyond.
During the forum, participants had the opportunity to attend high-level panel discussions, witness technological demonstrations of AI-based solutions, and explore the modern facilities of STP, where numerous regional startups are developed and supported.
As part of the event, the Meeting of Innovation Institutions of the Western Balkans was also organized, under the coordination of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), where Dr. Hakrama represented the Metropolitan Innovation Center of UMT. Discussions in this context covered topics such as capacity building, knowledge transfer, and the role of universities as development hubs for practical and impactful solutions.
“Participation in this forum clearly showed that inter-institutional collaboration and the development of innovation centers within universities are key to addressing modern challenges,” said Dr. Igli Hakrama during the meeting.
At the conclusion of the forum, the discussions centered around several key points aimed at building a more sustainable and interconnected future in the field of technology. Emphasis was placed on the need to deepen collaboration between academia, industry, and the public sector, recognizing this triangle as the main engine of regional innovation.
The forum also highlighted the importance of creating and strengthening innovative ecosystems that support startups, offering not only funding and infrastructure but also mentorship, collaborative networks, and access to new markets.
Finally, participants shared the conviction that building regional bridges in technology and knowledge is essential to tackling global challenges and leveraging the shared potential of Western Balkan countries. These connections are not seen merely as strategic partnerships, but as a necessity for balanced and sustainable development across the region.
UMT representatives expressed their inspiration from the positive energy and dedication of regional actors working toward a digital future, and their readiness to strengthen upcoming projects and partnerships.
