Western Balkans University hosted the 2nd International Conference on Higher Education & Sustainable Development (ICHESD 2026), dedicated to the theme “University of 4th Generation and Regional Development.”
Organized in collaboration with Aleksandër Moisiu University of Durrës, the hybrid conference brought together academics, researchers, policy experts, industry representatives, distinguished guests, and participants from Albania and abroad to exchange perspectives on the future of higher education and its role in regional development.
A key highlight of the conference was the keynote address by André Damiano, Founder and Managing Partner of Lumian Partners, who shared insights on global technology transformation and executive strategy.
Throughout the conference, multidisciplinary sessions addressed a broad range of topics, including Artificial Intelligence governance, fourth-generation universities, pedagogical innovation, healthcare, sustainable development, and regional entrepreneurship.
With more than half of the accepted research papers contributed by international authors, ICHESD 2026 further strengthened its role as a platform for international academic exchange, research collaboration, and dialogue between higher education, industry, and society.
Western Balkans University extends its appreciation to the representatives of Durana Tech Park, keynote speakers, session chairs, researchers, guests, and all participants, both on campus and online, for their contribution to the success of this year’s conference.
ICHESD 2026 reaffirmed WBU’s commitment to fostering academic cooperation, technological innovation, and sustainable regional development.
