Summer School 2025

INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL 2025

Concept Description

One Health for Healthy Ageing and Sustainable Futures

is a transformative five-day summer school dedicated to exploring the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. This program promotes a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to tackling global health challenges through the One Health framework, with a special emphasis on healthy ageing and sustainable development.

Hosted at Heimerer College in Prishtina, Kosovo, the summer school brings together students and professionals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Participants will engage in expert-led lectures, dynamic discussions, and collaborative learning. The program is designed to empower attendees to critically analyze complex health issues and develop innovative, cross-sectoral solutions.

Preliminary Program
Schedule

  DAY 1 – MAY 26  |  

Foundations of One Health

  DAY 2 – MAY 27  |  

Human Health and Healthy Ageing

  DAY 3 – MAY 28  |  

Animal Health and Its Human Connections

  DAY 4 – MAY 29  |  

Environmental Health and Resilience

  DAY 5 – MAY 29  |  

Integrated Solutions and Student Contributions

Speakers

Riaz Agahi

Riaz Agahi is originally from Northern Ireland, he completed a PhD in chemistry in Scotland in 2019. Since moving to Kosovo, he has shifted his focus to population health, with a particular interest in how the urban environment can be both a source of dangerous health exposures and an opportunity for promoting a harmonious, healthy and happy community. Drawing on his scientific training, he brings an analytical perspective to complex social and environmental health challenges. He currently works on projects related to green space, walkability, and public health data systems, with the goal of supporting equitable and evidence-based urban planning.

Linda Çavdarbasha

Linda Çavdarbasha is an ecologist and environmental expert from Kosovo, with academic specialization in Ecology and Environmental Protection. She finished studies at the University of Prishtina “Hasan Prishtina” and did an Erasmus+ exchange at the University of Konstanz in Germany. Linda has worked with various local and international organizations on sustainable development, waste management, and green economy initiatives. She served as Deputy Minister of Environment, Spatial Planning, and Infrastructure in Kosovo from 2021 to 2023, leading efforts on environmental protection, water protection, climate change, biodiversity, circular economy, and environmental education. In addition to her public service, Linda works as a consultant on environmental issues, climate action, and community-based sustainability projects, supporting national and regional institutions in aligning with international environmental standards.

Dr. Ardita Hoxha-Jahja

Research Manager - Food Systems and Lecture Cluster Manager

Dr. Ardita Hoxha-Jahja is a specialist in international affairs with a strong background in agri-food systems, animal health and welfare, and global collaboration. She works at Savonia University of Applied Sciences, where she plays a key role in fostering international partnerships and advancing the Agri-Food Cluster in North Savo. Her expertise spans strategic planning, cross-border cooperation, and policy development, with a focus on sustainable and innovative solutions in the sector. Dr. Hoxha-Jahja is committed to strengthening global engagement in research and education, particularly in the fields of animal welfare and sustainable food production.

Olav Goetz

Olav Goetz studied Business Administration at the University of Greifswald and the University of Latvia in Riga, specializing in Health Management and Economics. He earned a Master’s degree in Healthcare Management and completed his doctorate in 2013 on simulation-based analysis of healthcare operations. In 2018, he was appointed Professor of General Business Administration with a focus on Healthcare Consulting at APOLLON University of Applied Sciences. His academic and consulting work centers on healthcare management, with specializations in process management, modeling, and simulation in healthcare facilities, especially hospitals. He also focuses on cost analysis and human resource management, particularly in international settings. Alongside his academic role, he serves as a management consultant for healthcare institutions and development organizations such as GIZ and KfW. His consulting covers areas like healthcare financing, HR management, and cost analysis in healthcare systems worldwide.

MSc.Egzona Shala Kadiu

Executive Director, EcoZ – Youth Ecological and Security Zone

As climate change intensifies, Kosovo communities face growing environmental and socio-economic vulnerabilities. This presentation explores the power of grassroots movements and local CSOs in driving climate resilience and advancing the green transition in Kosovo. Drawing from over 15 years of fieldwork and leadership, Egzona Shala Kadiu shares practical insights into how community-driven initiatives, especially those led by youth and women, can influence national climate strategies and shape more inclusive, just transitions. 

Through concrete examples in environmental education, advocacy, and coalition-building, the talk highlights how locally designed action can challenge unsustainable development, empower vulnerable groups, and protect natural resources. The session underscores the importance of how data-driven activism and clear communication tools can strengthen environmental resilience and inspire collective action at the community level.

Practical Information

Everything you need to know before and during your stay. From travel tips and visa details to accommodation, local transport, and daily life—this section helps international students prepare for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

May 26–30, 2025

DATE

09:00 to 17:00

TIME

Heimerer College

LOCATION

Transportation

A Heimerer College Shuttle departs daily at 08:00 AM from Heimerer College, at 8:15 at Rrethi me Flamur and stops at multiple locations en route to the campus.

Private Bus line “24 Yjet” departs every 20 minutes from Rrethi me Flamur and stops near the college.

  • Single ticket: €0.50
  • Daily ticket: €0.80

Cycling

You can rent a bike using the Nextbike app. Check the app to locate the nearest bike station.

Driving

On-campus parking is available at Heimerer College.

Accommodation

We recommend AirbnbBook a shared space with other participants or
Hostels and Hotels – Use Booking to find nearby accommodations.

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Extended Abstracts for the One Health Summer School

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