The Agricultural University of Tirana marked a historic moment by participating for the first time and representing Albania at the 11th Ministerial Conference of the Least Developed Countries and the 21st UNIDO General Conference, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (22–27 November 2025). This participation is no coincidence—it is the result of a deep and visionary reform initiated by UBT in cooperation with BOKU University of Vienna, which has transformed the way education connects with industry, the private sector, and the preparation of young people for the labor market.
At this summit, which gathered representatives from more than 172 countries, UBT’s Rector, Prof. Fatbardh Sallaku, represented the university in an international panel alongside leaders of global industries, including the Presidents of Boeing and Siemens, as well as the President of the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology. The discussions focused on the importance of linking education with the private sector and how this connection can empower youth and foster innovation.
Prof. Sallaku emphasized that the reforms launched at UBT—especially those in partnership with BOKU—are true success stories. These reforms focus on providing more practical and industry-centered study programs that align directly with the real needs of businesses and the labor market. One clear example of this transformation, strongly supported by UNIDO, is the Master’s Program in Quality Systems and Standards, a pioneering field offering extraordinary opportunities for young people and for Albanian businesses, particularly in the context of EU integration and the growing demand for high-quality and standardized agricultural products.
UBT’s participation in this summit is not merely symbolic. It shows that the Albanian university is now a regional and global actor, a strategic partner, and a demonstration of how bold reforms and international cooperation can deliver concrete and tangible results.
As industries undergo rapid transformation driven by digitalization and the green transition, the demand for future-ready skills is rising continuously. Education systems alone cannot meet these evolving needs, making university–industry collaboration essential. These partnerships foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and employment—key priorities of UBT’s ongoing reform. By linking teaching and research with industrial application and the private sector, universities can better align students’ skills with market demands. The UBT-BOKU Vision 2030 offers a strong example of how collaboration and a focus on practicality and business engagement can empower youth and support the broader mission of higher education in building resilient and innovation-oriented economies.
This participation in the global summit demonstrates that UBT is not simply following trends—it is shaping them. Through its reforms, the university is strengthening the connection between education, industry, and agribusiness; preparing young people for future challenges; and leading the transformation of higher education in Albania. UBT’s presence at the UNIDO summit is clear evidence that its vision, work, and reforms are recognized and respected on a global level.
This achievement is a call toward the future—one where education, industry, and the private sector work together to build a stronger Albania, ready for the EU and the global economy.
