USAID private sector partnerships to strengthen higher education activity have favored strong collaboration between Iowa State University and partner universities in Kosovo. Professors specializing in the fields of studies linked to agriculture at the University of Prishtina, the University of Peja “Haxhi Zeka” and at the University of Prizren “Ukshin Vokshi” collaborated closely with the Department of Sciences Animals of the State of Iowa to strengthen applied research capacities, improve teaching methodologies and the state of Iowa Develop experiential learning opportunities for agricultural students. Kosovan teachers have acquired valuable information on the tools and practices that improve undergraduate learning experiences and better prepare students in the labor market. Two workshops on the improvement of sciences with the practice of experiential learning and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to support the universities and companies of Kosovan agriculture illustrate these efforts.
The workshop “Science with Practice”, led by Dr. Mike Retallick and Dusti Ingles of the Department of Education and Agricultural Studies of the State of Iowa, explored the means to integrate research and practical experiences in the study program and extracurricular activities. The discussions have discussed financial and operational challenges while offering strategies to take advantage of university research for the benefit of students. The workshop also highlighted the Iowa State model to twin students with mentors, which inspired ideas to implement similar programs in partner universities.
“Research offers students practical experience, helping them to determine their career path. This workshop has given us invaluable information to structure a program in our university, allowing a better commitment of students in research and practical application of knowledge, ”said Granit Kastrati, assistant professor at the Faculty of Agro-Industry The University of Peja.
The use of AI in agriculture, led by Joshua Peschel, associate professor and associate president for research and extension in the department of Iowa of the Department of Agriculture and Biosystems Engineering has demonstrated how a Generative can improve academic and agricultural practices. The teachers learned to use AI for research, detection of plagiarism, classes preparation and private sector support. More importantly, they also explored AI applications in agriculture, such as monitoring and optimization of agricultural production.
“In the rapidly evolving world today, technology has revolutionized agriculture and animal production. This training allowed me to explore the immense potential of AI to optimize agricultural processes and facilitate the work of farmers. He provided valuable information to share with our students and the companies we work with, “said Berta Mehmedi Kastrati, professor at the Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences at the University of Prishtina.
These workshops are part of a continuous effort to strengthen the university capacities of programs development, applied research and experiential learning. The partnerships established thanks to the activity illustrate the commitment to support students and businesses to make the most of university resources and services. These workshops set the foundations for the next phase of activity support, which will focus on the design of applied research projects that actively involve students and the private sector to provide innovative solutions to Kosovo agricultural businesses.
Private sector partnerships to strengthen higher education is an initiative funded by the USAID implemented by the IOWA University, in partnership with Iowa State University and Kosova Education Center (KEC).