On December 5, 2024, the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative Permanent Secretariat actively participated in the Midterm Project Meeting of ESN-AIR - Engaging Students for eNhancing Internationalization Practices in the Adriatic-Ionian Region, held in Shkodër, Albania. This initiative, funded by the European Union, aims to foster internationalization in higher education and strengthen regional cooperation through the involvement of universities and student associations.

 

The meeting opened with a warm welcome address by Ambassador Pigliapoco, who highlighted the AII's commitment to academic collaboration and the importance of engaging young people in shaping the future of the region. He emphasized the key role of initiatives like ESN-AIR in promoting student mobility, improving university services, and aligning educational practices across borders.

The project, coordinated by Marche Polytechnic University, brings together universities from Italy, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Croatia. Its activities focus on training students and staff, fostering cultural exchange, and creating opportunities for international cooperation. A particular emphasis is placed on empowering young people and enhancing STEM education, with a strong focus on gender balance.

Ambassador Pigliapoco also reaffirmed the AII’s dedication to fostering youth engagement and regional integration, highlighting that projects like ESN-AIR play a crucial role in supporting EU enlargement efforts and preparing the region for future challenges.

The ESN-AIR project is a powerful testament to the shared commitment of the Adriatic-Ionian region to education, cooperation, and innovation, paving the way for a more interconnected and inclusive future.