The fifth day of the Prishtina International Summer University (PISU) continued with courses, lectures, and workshops across different faculties of the University of Prishtina, addressing topics related to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, law, economics, and environmental protection.

At the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Dr. Josh Brunty, Professor of Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity at Marshall University and Director of Research at the Institute for Cyber Security, together with Professor Blerim Rexha from the University of Prishtina, lectured on contemporary challenges in digital security.

Professor Brunty emphasized that attacks against national infrastructure are among the most serious threats, as they can affect essential services such as water, electricity, and gas supplies. He noted that installing antivirus software is not sufficient to protect personal data and that users need to be more cautious about fraudulent emails, understand digital risks, and report attacks to the relevant authorities. Speaking about artificial intelligence, he explained that it is accelerating both the development of defensive mechanisms and the creation of new forms of cyberattacks.

Professor Blerim Rexha said that Kosovo does not yet have a detailed report on cyberattacks but faces the same trends as other countries. According to him, the most common threats include phishing through emails and text messages, as well as DDoS attacks targeting online services. He added that banks remain among the most attractive targets because of the possibility of direct financial gain.

Participating students also spoke about the importance of basic digital security knowledge. Rizonë Hyseni, a student at the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, said that almost every internet user has encountered or been exposed to some form of cyber threat. Leo, a student from Spain, emphasized that even those who do not work professionally in this field should have basic knowledge of data protection and safe internet use.

At the Faculty of Economics, the course “Law, Economics, and Artificial Intelligence” continued under the leadership of Prof. (FH) Dr. Armin J. Kammel from Webster Vienna Private University and Associate Professor Dr. Mjellma Carabegu-Vokshi from the University of Prishtina. The lectures focused on the impact of the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies on traditional legal frameworks. Discussions covered the globalization of communication, cyberspace, the metaverse, and the challenges related to the legal responsibility of artificial intelligence systems.

Professor Kammel emphasized that questions concerning the legal responsibility and legal personality of artificial intelligence will also have an important impact on contract law. Nick, a student from the Netherlands, noted that the rapid development of artificial intelligence will transform the way economies and legal systems function, while also highlighting the importance of protecting and managing personal data. Dorutea, a student from Bulgaria, stressed that law provides an essential foundation for the development of technology and business.

The Summer Cultural Exchange Programme, organized within PISU by the University of Prishtina in cooperation with the Rotary Club Intercountry Committee Germany–Kosovo, also concluded during the day. After four days of work, 21 students from different European countries presented ideas for reducing plastic pollution and improving waste management in Prishtina. Their proposals included redesigning waste containers, introducing smart bins, developing educational applications, and creating reward systems to encourage citizens, particularly children and young people, to become more involved in recycling and keeping the city clean.

Professor Rozafa Basha, Vice-Rector for Internationalization and Academic Exchange, emphasized that plastic pollution is not only an environmental issue but is also connected to how cities are planned, public spaces are managed, and infrastructure is designed. Eric McKinlay from the Rotary Club commended the students’ work and collaboration in developing their ideas. At the end of the programme, participants received certificates and personalized gifts.

In the afternoon, as a special event within PISU 2026, the University of Prishtina, in cooperation with the Government of the Republic of Kosovo and the U.S.–Kosovo Educational Exchange Board (USKEB), commemorated the 250th anniversary of the United States of America with an event dedicated to democracy, Kosovo–U.S. relations, and the role of educational exchanges.

Opening remarks were delivered by Professor Arben Hajrullahu, Rector of the University of Prishtina; Albin Kurti, Acting Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo; Wylita Bell, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo; and Audrey Coleman from the Dole Institute, who addressed the audience through a video message.

The first panel, titled “The United States Semiquincentennial – 250 Years as a Beacon of Democracy for the World,” explored the history of American democracy, its global influence, and Kosovo–U.S. relations. The panel featured Avni Spahiu, the first Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to the United States; Assistant Professor Luljeta Plakolli-Kasumi from the University of Prishtina and a member of the USKEB Board; and Dr. Melanie Schoeffner, Professor at James Madison University. The discussion was moderated by Ilir Hajra, an alumnus of the Fulbright Program.

The second panel focused on the role of educational exchanges in strengthening partnerships, mutual understanding, and long-term connections between communities. It was moderated by Gjeni Shporta and Nora Nimani Musa from USKEB, while participants included Rector Arben Hajrullahu, Deputy Minister of Education Përparim Kryeziu, alumni of exchange programmes, as well as US professors and students participating in PISU.

The day concluded at Europe House with “Karaoke Night,” which brought together a large number of PISU students in a lively and festive atmosphere. The activity is part of the support provided this year by the European Union Office in Kosovo to the Prishtina International Summer University.