In the wake of the 1999 Kosovo War – a war which lasted 10 years and paralyzed educational, healthcare, socio-cultural, economic and infrastructural systems – the nation faced the formidable task of rebuilding its economic, infrastructural, and developmental foundations from the ground up. This period of reconstruction mirrored the personal journey of Prof. Dr. Edmond Hajrizi, whose visionary leadership and academic prowess have been instrumental in shaping Kosovo’s future, particularly in education, innovation and entrepreneurship. This case exemplifies the ways in which Higher Education (HE) leaders influence not only their institutions, but also the regional ecosystems.
As Kosovo grappled with the aftermath of conflict, it needed a new paradigm for growth and innovation. Prof. Hajrizi, with his deep expertise in engineering, management, and technology, recognized the critical role education and innovation would play in this transformation. In December 2001, he founded the University for Business and Technology (UBT) in Prishtina, a beacon of progress and a symbol of the nation’s aspirations.
UBT's inception paralleled Kosovo's reconstruction efforts. Just as the country was laying the groundwork for a new socio-economic framework, UBT was conceptualized and built from scratch to address the emerging needs of a post-war society. Prof. Hajrizi's extensive academic background and his post-doctoral research in complex systems design and management informed his approach to creating a university that could foster entrepreneurship and innovation. Furthermore, his leadership characteristics (such as empathy, listening to the needs of his community and commitment to addressing society’s evolving needs) helped him develop an inclusive, innovative and forward-thinking ecosystem which answers the emergent needs and challenges of society.
Under Prof. Hajrizi’s leadership, UBT has become a driving force in the Western Balkans, embodying the entrepreneurial and innovative spirit necessary for the region’s development. The university's establishment of over 100 spin-offs and its proactive role in creating more than 80 business functions reflect the broader economic revitalization efforts in Kosovo. UBT's initiatives, such as the UBT Science and Technology Park and the EON Virtual and Augmented Reality Center, illustrate its commitment to advancing technology and fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
UBT’s growth and impact have been profound. It has become a central player in Kosovo's economy, significantly contributing to the job market and individual sectors. For example, 65% of ICT sector employees hold UBT degrees and over 1,000 jobs are created annually through the UBT Ecosystem – including its Spin-Offs, UBT Alumni and newly-established independent businesses supported by the UBT Accelerator – highlighting UBT’s direct and fundamental contribution to Kosovo’s growth. The university’s international acclaim, including awards like the "European Young Entrepreneurial University of the Year" and high rankings in global university assessments, underscores its pivotal role in positioning Kosovo as a hub for innovation and skilled labor. This is also a reflection on Prof Hajrizi, who understood the needs of his region and created the right opportunities for its development in key sectors.
In essence, the story of Prof. Hajrizi and UBT is a testament to Kosovo’s resilience and ambition. Just as the nation rebuilt itself from the ashes of conflict, UBT was established as a cornerstone of Kosovo’s future, pioneering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that extends well beyond the region. Through his leadership, Prof. Hajrizi has not only contributed to the educational landscape but has also played a crucial role in shaping Kosovo’s economic and cultural resurgence.
One final word: UBT started its visionary leadership journey towards innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainability with only 29 students in 2004. Currently, over 15,000 students are enrolled in UBT’s programs. This extraordinary growth has happened against all obstacles and restrictions of a transitioning society, driven by Rector Hajrizi’s unwavering vision and belief that excellence and the pinnacle of success are achievable, no matter the challenges. It is his leadership, inspiring efforts, and patience, grounded in trust and the empowerment of others, that has guided this remarkable journey. UBT’s growth and well-established ecosystem has lifted up Kosovo society from a support-demanding society to a growing and shining society in certain sectors and fields of life which also exports expertise, professionalism and well-prepared human and professional sources.
A SHORT BIO OF PROF. DR. EDMOND HAJRIZI
Dr. Edmond Hajrizi, born on August 27, 1971, in Lipjan, Kosovo, is an esteemed academic and professional specializing in complex systems management, engineering, and education. He holds a Doctorate in System Management from the Vienna University of Technology, with expertise in decision-making, process management, and artificial intelligence. Dr. Hajrizi is the founder, President, and CEO of the University for Business and Technology (UBT) in Prishtina, where he has overseen the development of numerous academic programs, research institutes, international partnerships and over 100 Spin-Offs related to UBT Smart Ecosystem. With extensive experience in quality management, strategic planning, and project management, he has also served as a visiting professor at various universities and as a consultant for international organizations like the World Bank and Kosovo Government. Fluent in multiple languages, including Albanian, English and German, Dr. Hajrizi continues to contribute to education, business, and entrepreneurship through his leadership and expertise. He also established the first entrepreneurship school in Kosovo, back in 2004, where he’s been teaching entrepreneurship and innovative thinking ever since.
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Prof. Dr. Edmond Hajrizi
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