TIRANA, July 1, 2025 – EPOKA University officially launched Epoka Valley – Sustainable Living Lab, a pioneering initiative supported by the Erasmus+ Programme under the GreenWB Project, aimed at fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and society. In a ceremony attended by university leadership, faculty, students, and partners, the event marked the beginning of a long-term commitment to turning knowledge into actionable solutions and building a sustainable ecosystem for innovation.

Speaking at the launch event, Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmet Oztas emphasized that collaboration stands at the heart of this initiative. “Epoka Valley is not simply a project—it is a growing ecosystem,” he stated. “Meaningful change happens when we unite efforts across sectors, and this initiative is about creating lasting ties and practical outcomes.”

The Director of the Yunus Center for Social Business and Sustainability, Dr. Besjon Zenelaj, outlined five core objectives that define the mission of Epoka Valley:

1. Bringing Companies into the Classroom: Companies will be invited to share real-life operational insights, leading to the development of case studies that benefit students, lecturers, and the companies themselves. The B-FLEX INDUSTRY DAYS initiative is already operational, aiming to close the gap between education and enterprise.
    
2. Industry Reports: Epoka Valley will produce regular analytical reports on industries in Albania and the Western Balkans, offering valuable insights for stakeholders.
    
3. Trend and Data Analysis: The lab will work on identifying trends and patterns across different sectors through available data, fostering informed decision-making.
    
4. Support for Industry Projects: Companies will have the opportunity to collaborate with students and staff from diverse disciplines. For instance, architecture students may contribute to interior space design, through competitions that save costs for businesses while motivating students to innovate.
    
5. Alumni Engagement: A dedicated platform will be developed to strengthen the relationship between current students and alumni, promoting mentorship, networking, and continuous collaboration.
    

Beyond these goals, the lab remains open to new ideas from the EPOKA community, welcoming proposals from both students and faculty.

The realization of Epoka Valley is a result of collective dedication. Special acknowledgment was given to Ms. Flogerta Hasanaj, Ms. Sümeyra Uyurca, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Oztas, Dr. Esmir Demaj, and Dr. Armando Demaj for their instrumental contributions throughout every stage of the project. The efforts of academic and administrative staff who have pledged their support for upcoming activities were also commended.

Currently, the Epoka Valley team includes 15 members: three academic staff, one administrative staff, and five students, with plans for further growth.

“Together, we are shaping a space where sustainability is not just discussed but practiced,” concluded Dr. Zenelaj. “Where innovation is not just encouraged but applied, and where education truly serves the broader society.”

With Epoka Valley now officially launched, EPOKA University reinforces its position as a leader in educational innovation and social responsibility in the region.