On April 9, 2025, the Department of Political Science and International Relations at EPOKA University, in collaboration with the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) Tirana, launched the first day of the EU Decision Making Simulation School. The event welcomed high school students from across Albania, who were mentored by students of the Political Science and International Relations Department and guided through the complexities of European Union decision-making processes.

The first day began at Europe House with an opening session featuring distinguished guests. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lisen Bashkurti, Dean of the Faculty of Law and Social Sciences at EPOKA University, Mr. Jean-Baptiste Le Bras, Deputy Head of the Political Section at the EU Delegation to Albania, Ms. Blerta Rama, Deputy Minister of Economy, Culture and Innovation, Ms. Ajla Maksuti from the Center for Openness and Dialogue at the Prime Ministry, and Mr. Kreshnik Loka, Head of RYCO Tirana, addressed the audience. The speakers emphasized the importance of youth participation in policy-making, public discourse, and regional cooperation.

The opening was followed by a public speaking and leadership training titled “The Power of the Words: Youth Leadership and Public Speaking,” delivered by Ms. Jorida Tabaku. The session encouraged participants to build confidence and strengthen communication skills crucial for public engagement and leadership roles.

In the afternoon, the event continued at the premises of EPOKA University, where students took part in two additional training sessions. Dr. Avdi Smajlaj, Lecturer at EPOKA, delivered a detailed presentation on the structure and function of EU institutions. Ms. Flutura Brakaj, Program Officer at RYCO, held a session on debate and negotiation techniques, preparing students for the simulation activities to follow.

The simulation school is chaired by Dr. Dea Bashkurti, whose leadership and expertise in EU affairs have shaped the academic design of the event, and co-chaired by Ms. Morena Mulhaxhia, who has played a key role in its organization and mentoring framework.

EPOKA University extends its gratitude to all guest speakers, trainers, and institutional partners who contributed to the successful launch of the simulation school and to RYCO Tirana for their valuable collaboration.