This membership is an important moment for the future of the university, as it will help strengthen international partnerships and contribute to the further progress of UASF in the field of higher education.

The membership was realized during the 9th Rectors’ Forum, which was held from September 11 to 13, 2024 at the University “St. Kliment Ohridski” in Bitola, North Macedonia. UASF was represented by the rector Prof. Dr. Agron Bajraktari, accompanied by the Vice-Rector for Digitalization, Information and Innovation Technology Prof. Assoc. Dr. Fakije Zejnullahu and Professor Pajtim Rrustemi.

In the 9th forum, Rectors and higher education representatives participating in the forum, discussed European University Alliances, the challenges and opportunities that these alliances offer. Discussions also focused on university values, integrity in the University and the promotion of gender equality in higher education. In addition, the participants discussed the application to joint European projects and initiatives for strengthening the capacities of universities, including the exchange of students and staff, the organization of conferences and joint research projects.

During the Forum, representatives of the European university alliances COLOURS, EUTOPIA, YUFE and EUA discussed the future development of these alliances and new opportunities for cooperation.

In this forum, the membership of three new universities was accepted: (1) University of Applied Sciences in Ferizaj, (2) Aristotle University in Thessaloniki, and (3) “Isa Boletini” University in Mitrovica. Southeastern Europe Rectors’ Forum and the Western Balkans is an important regional network in the field of higher education, which focuses on the development of European university alliances and joint initiatives to strengthen ties between universities in the region.