June 8, 2025
On 8-11 June, the 20th International Conference on System of Systems Engineering (SoSE 2025), held under the theme “SoSE for Sustainable Development,” gathered experts and researchers from around the world to address pressing challenges in disaster risk reduction and climate resilience.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mirjam Ndini from the Department of Civil Engineering at EPOKA University contributed to the conference with a research presentation titled “Climate Variability and Flood Risk in the Vjosa River Basin.” Her study examined the impact of climate variability on flood risk in the Vjosa basin, focusing particularly on the observed rise in frequency and intensity of precipitation. Using historical disaster data and the DesInventar methodology; a standardised framework for disaster loss data collection developed by UNISDR; the research provided a comprehensive assessment of the municipalities most vulnerable to flooding.
The findings highlighted the multifactorial nature of flood risk in the region, demonstrating how physical, social, economic, and environmental vulnerabilities intersect to increase exposure. The analysis points to a clear trend of rising flood risk, attributed to shifting climate conditions and more intense precipitation events.
Participation in SoSE 2025 offered an opportunity to situate this research within a broader systems engineering perspective, supporting interdisciplinary dialogue on sustainable solutions for disaster risk management.
The Department of Civil Engineering extends its thanks to the conference organisers and all participants for their valuable contributions and collaborative spirit.
