EPOKA University was pleased to host an International Week in collaboration with the University of Rome Tor Vergata, bringing together students, academics, public officials, and professionals from Albania and Italy for an enriching experience of learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Throughout the week, participants engaged in a diverse programme of academic lectures, guest speaker sessions, institutional visits, and cultural activities focused on economics, law, innovation, entrepreneurship, finance, digital transformation, blockchain technologies, and European integration. The programme provided valuable opportunities for students to interact with distinguished experts and gain international perspectives on contemporary challenges and opportunities.

We were honoured to welcome distinguished guests and speakers, including Prof. Gianluca Mattarocci, Prof. Massimo Papa, PhD C. Ester Duro, Ms. Olta Manjani, Deputy Minister of Economy, Culture and Innovation of Albania, who hosted a session at the COD – Center for Openness and Dialogue within the Prime Ministry premises, Mr. Gert Shijaku from the Research Department of the Bank of Albania, Mr. Elvis Shera, Blockchain Expert, and Mr. Dorian Kane from Albania’s AI & Web3 Developer Community. Their contributions enriched the academic discussions and provided participants with valuable insights from academia, public institutions, emerging technologies, and industry.

In addition to the academic programme, participants had the opportunity to visit important institutions and explore some of Albania’s most significant cultural heritage sites. Among the highlights were visits to the Bank of Albania and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Gjirokastër and Butrint. These activities offered participants a unique opportunity to experience Albania’s rich cultural, historical, and archaeological heritage while gaining a deeper understanding of the country's institutional, economic, and cultural landscape.
This initiative reflects EPOKA University's commitment to internationalization, academic excellence, and the promotion of meaningful international learning experiences that connect students and staff with global academic and professional communities.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to all colleagues who contributed to the successful organization and implementation of this initiative. Special thanks go to, among others, Dr. Elda Dollija, Lecturer at the Department of Business Administration, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gentjan Skara, Head of the Department of Law, and PhD C. Kriselda Gura assistant lecturer from the Department of Banking and Finance. We also extend our special thanks to the International Relations Office of EPOKA University and all administrative units that contributed to the planning, coordination, and successful implementation of the programme. Their dedication, professionalism, and continuous support were instrumental in making this International Week a success.

The successful completion of this International Week marks another important milestone in strengthening the cooperation between EPOKA University and the University of Rome Tor Vergata. Beyond the academic and cultural activities, the programme created a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, international networking, and interdisciplinary dialogue among students, academics, professionals, and public institutions from both countries. Such initiatives play a significant role in fostering international understanding, promoting innovation, and preparing students to become active contributors in an increasingly interconnected world. We extend our sincere gratitude to our partners from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, all guest speakers, participants, and supporting staff whose contributions made this initiative possible. EPOKA University remains committed to expanding international partnerships and creating transformative learning experiences that strengthen academic cooperation, encourage intercultural exchange, and contribute to the development of globally minded graduates.