Round table, UT

The Faculty of Economics at the University of Tirana (FEUT) organized the round table “The University as a Driver of Youth Entrepreneurship” on November 18th, 2025, bringing together a wide range of national and international stakeholders. The event gathered representatives from public institutions, development partners, academia, the business sector, and students, creating a dynamic environment for the exchange of ideas and perspectives.

During the academic segment, several university-based research and innovation initiatives were presented, including activities carried out within the USE IPM project. A key highlight was the presentation of the Research and Innovation Strategy—both at the national level and for the University of Tirana. The open discussion with participants reaffirmed a shared commitment to strengthening Albania’s research ecosystem and building a modern, innovative, and sustainable university environment.

The event concluded with an interactive dialogue involving students, academics, and institutional representatives, emphasizing the importance of continuous cooperation among all stakeholders in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in Albania.

Albania’s national Research and Innovation Strategy aligns with the country’s long-term development goals, EU integration efforts, and the modernization of scientific infrastructure. Although Albania faces challenges such as limited research capacity, low private-sector engagement, and fragmented coordination, growing opportunities are emerging through programmes such as Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, and initiatives within the European Research Area (ERA).

The strategy is anchored in the National Development and Integration Strategy (2022–2030), the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, and commitments stemming from EU accession. It emphasizes the strengthening of regulatory conditions, improving research quality, building human capacities, and fostering cooperation through the Quadruple Helix Model—connecting academia, business, government, and civil society.

Through its Development Strategy 2023–2028, the University of Tirana places research and innovation at the core of its institutional transformation. Key priorities include strengthening international cooperation, increasing scientific output, promoting technology transfer, and integrating sustainability principles across all teaching and research activities.

At the national level, the Research and Innovation Strategy aims to build a competitive, internationally connected ecosystem that links academia, industry, and public institutions. Expanding access to international programmes and fostering stronger university–industry cooperation are expected to accelerate the transition toward a knowledge-based economy.

For the University of Tirana, the expected impact includes increased research excellence, the development of innovation-oriented hubs, and enhanced student and researcher engagement in entrepreneurial activities. The combined effect of the national and university strategies is expected to contribute to a stronger innovation ecosystem, greater commercialization of research, and the emergence of sustainable start-ups.