Leaders from public higher education institutions, the National Science Council, the Kosovo Accreditation Agency, and the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation convened at the Rectorate of the University of Prishtina to discuss the implementation of the National Science Program.

In his opening remarks, the Rector of the University of Prishtina, Prof. Dr. Arben Hajrullahu, stated that for innovation, scientific research, or any issue we aim to advance, we must first know where we stand and then determine where we are headed.

Rector Hajrullahu emphasized that it is essential for state institutions and public higher education institutions to reduce the gap between strategies on paper and their practical implementation, cautioning that strategies should not be treated as an end in themselves.

The Chair of the National Science Council, Prof. Dr. Muzafere Krasniqi-Limani, outlined the objectives of the National Science Program (2023–2028), which aims to advance scientific research, foster links between science, the economy, and industry, build human capacity for scientific research, and promote the internationalization and excellence of these research endeavors.

The Rector of the "Haxhi Zeka" University in Peja, Prof. Dr. Armand Krasniqi, addressed the interconnection between studies, universities, industry, and the community. He noted that currently, neither entrepreneurs nor the community are prepared for such a link.

The Director General of the Kosovo Accreditation Agency, Naim Gashi, also addressed the roundtable, stating that public higher education institutions should offer joint study programs. Gashi proposed the establishment of project preparation offices across universities to better utilize funds, programs, and European higher education projects.

The Rector of the "Ukshin Hoti" University in Prizren, Prof. Dr. Mentor Alishani, stated that no university can function as an island, describing alliances between universities as a necessity.

A common conclusion emerged from the roundtable among the rectors of public universities: for there to be a level playing field, private higher education institutions must operate as non-profit organizations.

The roundtable was moderated by the Rector of the Public International Business College in Mitrovica, Prof. Dr. Mihone Kerolli, who was also its initiator. The event was organized by the Conference of Rectors of Public Higher Education Institutions in the Republic of Kosovo, in cooperation with the National Science Council and the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation.