During this significant visit, several essential topics were discussed with insightful presentations and discussions on the implemented and future activities within SMART Work Packages 1, 4, 5, 6, and 8.
The conversation delved into the various activities jointly implemented within the SMART centers. These initiatives aim to leverage the innovation centers‘ unique capabilities and resources to propel economic growth and development. These activities will focus on promoting cutting-edge research, nurturing startups, and facilitating technology transfer, thereby creating a robust innovation ecosystem.
A major focus was placed on strategies to effectively engage and promote the centers to a wide array of stakeholders. This includes not only government entities and educational institutions but also private sector companies and international partners. The discussions highlighted the need for a list of services for each SMART Innovation Center that will be provided to stakeholders as well as promotion of the SMART Knowledge Network.
Another project topic was the plan for mapping stakeholders and preparation of several dissemination events (SMART Idea Contest, Regional Events, and End-of the conference) that will be organized during the final project year. Emphasizing the promotion of these centers as catalysts for economic development, the discussions underscored the importance of creating a seamless interface between academia, industry, and government.
Furthermore, SMART participants attended the GeNeMe Pre-conference and Conference, where the SMART project team contributed to a panel discussion on “Sustainable University Collaborations between Europe and the Western Balkans: Pathways to Creating Stable Academic Networks.” The SMART project was showcased as a prime example of successful collaboration between universities in Europe and the Western Balkans.
The event explores the current challenges and opportunities in higher education cooperation within Europe, particularly focusing on the Western Balkans. The discussion delves into strategies for establishing sustainable academic communities and networks. Our distinguished panelists shared insights on selected best-practice examples of successful projects and long-term partnerships in the region, highlighting the role of political decision-makers and educational institutions. The aim was to strengthen higher education systems and promote innovation through joint projects and the exchange of expertise.
This event provided a unique opportunity for academic and administrative staff, as well as students from our partner universities and beyond, to engage in meaningful dialogue and contribute to the development of sustainable academic networks with a synergy focus on the COWEB and SMART projects and beyond. If you are interested, you can follow the outcome of our fruitful meeting in a visualized summary here.
Panelists: Prof. Dr. Thomas Köhler (TUD, Germany), Dr. Mateja Geder (DOBA, Slovenia), Prof. Dr. Dragan Gligoric (UNIBL, Bosnia & Herzegovina), Marija Vuković Milačić (Chamber of commerce, Montenegro), Prof. Dr. Eric Schoop (TUD, Germany), Dr. Esmir Demaj (EPOKA, Albania), Dr. Malcolm Duerod (IBU, Bosnia & Herzegovina) Moderator: Mattis Altmann
Author: Mattis Altmann
Deutsch 
English (UK)