As part of the Prishtina International Summer University (PISU) programme, the course “Introduction to Concepts of Weaving” is being held at the Faculty of Arts. The course is led by Monica Cruz de Gusmao Correia, professor and head of the 3D Design Programme at the University of Iowa, USA, together with Prof. Burim Arifi from the Faculty of Arts of the University of Prishtina.
The course introduces students to the basics of weaving as both a practical skill and an art form, combining hands-on work with creative exploration. It also encourages students to appreciate weaving as a form of artistic expression and cultural heritage. “The first thing we come into contact with when we leave our mother’s womb is a blanket; therefore, textiles accompany us throughout our lives,” said Professor Correia.
Through the use of tools, materials, and various weaving techniques, students are developing their own works while becoming familiar with the basic concepts of textiles. Correia said that her experience in Kosovo so far has been very pleasant. “So far, I have really enjoyed it. The food is wonderful, and the people are very warm,” she emphasized.
The course has also attracted international students. Taylor Monet Pennix, a student from the USA, said she chose the course because it is different from the others and, at the same time, enjoyable. Meanwhile, a student from the University of New York in Tirana said the course enables her to connect interior design with textiles and creativity.
During the day, a workshop led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mirjam Palsma from Hanze University in the Netherlands and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pranvera Breznica-Selmani from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Prishtina was also held. The workshop focused on “Palliative Care”, a medical care approach used for patients with terminal illnesses, aimed at improving their quality of life. Students of Medicine and Pharmacy were introduced to the importance of this care, both from a professional perspective and in terms of the human dimension of healthcare.
Through practical activities, students were invited to place themselves in the position of the patient and reflect on sensitivity, communication, and teamwork. Dr. Palsma emphasized that the main goal of the workshop was to encourage students to feel free to ask sensitive questions and to understand the importance of cooperation in their future profession.
The following workshop was led by Jason A. Laker, professor of Higher Education, Student Affairs, and Community Development at San José State University, California, USA. He led the workshop “Gender, Men and Masculinities”, which addressed topics such as gender messages, the social construction of masculinity, violence, sexism, privilege, and fear of femininity.
Professor Laker emphasized that patriarchy has consequences not only for women, but also for men, connecting the discussion with personal development and relationships that oppose gender-based violence. International and local students discussed the expectations society places on men and their impact on social relationships.
During the day, students from the courses “Gender, Migration and Diaspora” and “Democracy 2.0: Gender, Power and Human Rights”, together with their professors, Prof. Vjollca Krasniqi, Dr. Dafina Paca, and Dr. Merita Limani, were received by Ms. Edi Gusia, Executive Director of the Agency for Gender Equality within the Office of the Prime Minister. The discussion focused on the institutional and legal framework for gender equality, the role of the Agency in drafting public policies, the Gender Equality Plan, women’s political representation, their participation in the economy, gender-based violence, property and inheritance rights, as well as affirmative measures for the empowerment of women and girls.
Through activities that connected art, healthcare, critical reflection, and gender equality, the fourth day of PISU once again demonstrated the interdisciplinary and international character of the programme.