The Launch of ‘Reforming University of Prishtina – mission possible?’

27.11.2015

The paper “Reforming University of Prishtina – mission possible? Nine challenges and their remedies” produced a substantial discussion with regard to where the university is now and where should it be headed. Education field experts (around 50 participants) discussed with the key actors (panelists) such as: rector, minister, and various vice-rectors and professors, in regards to how we should make the reforming of UP a possible mission. The key obstacles were found in the quality of education, mismatch of curricula with labour market needs, and lack of accountability. The University of Prishtina should not produce graduates only for the current labour market but also for the future labour market needs. In regards to the academic advancements, a recurring debate, there should be set criteria that creates an automatic mechanism and you either advance or not.

Kosovo ranks significantly higher than the European average with number of students for 100,000 inhabitants (6,609 students). The self-criticism by the key stakeholders will pave the way for reform as it is the first step. Change will come once a critical mass is created and this conference has gathered a lot of stakeholders who have come on a consensus that the problems presented in the paper need dire attention. The reforming of the University is necessary so whether it is possible or not it must be done.