During the Fall Semester of 2024-2025, EPOKA University successfully finalized the Regional Virtual Collaborative Learning (VCL) module in the context of the COWEB Project. The module concluded with the Final Pitch Presentations, marking the completion of an intensive 10-week program. This module of Tandem 2, brought together 59 students from EPOKA University (Albania), UBT (Kosovo), and UES (Bosnia and Herzegovina) to present their recycling-focused start-up ideas, themed around SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) developed through rigorous research, collaboration, and mentorship.

The 8 student teams showcased innovative solutions addressing the sustainability challenges of the Western Balkans region through market analysis, stakeholder engagement, competition, and financial feasibility assessments. Their projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (especially SDGs 12 and 13) of the United Nations, demonstrating how business and technology can drive environmental impact.

Winning Team: EcoTech (Team 7)

The EcoTech team secured the top spot with their sustainable approach to repurposing plastic waste into technology products. Their solution stood out for its scalability, market potential, and commitment to sustainability, offering an innovative response to the global plastic waste crisis.

Key Achievements and Insights

• 3 universities, 4 integrated courses, 6 professors, and 9 e-tutors contributed to the program.
• 59 students across 8 teams developed entrepreneurial solutions addressing waste management and sustainability.
• Each team delivered a comprehensive project report, business poster, and final presentation, evaluated on innovation, feasibility, and impact.

This phase of the COWEB Project reaffirmed the role of digital learning and interdisciplinary collaboration in shaping education. By merging academic knowledge with real-world challenges, the regional VCL module provided students with practical experience in business development, teamwork, and market-driven innovation.

A sincere thank you to all Students, E-tutors, and Professors for fostering an environment of creativity, critical thinking, and cross-border collaboration.

Visit Erasmus+ COWEB Project at EPOKA University