The University of Prishtina and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Development signed a memorandum of understanding today, establishing a framework for cooperation on matters of shared interest and public benefit.

The memorandum sets out joint activities and inter-institutional cooperation in areas of mutual interest. It aims to strengthen capacities, improve public policies, align with EU policies, and bring the academic knowledge of the University of Prishtina into support for agriculture, forestry, and rural development.

The memorandum was signed by the Rector of the University of Prishtina, Prof. Arben Hajrullahu, and the Acting Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Development, Armend Muja.

Rector Hajrullahu said that both institutions must help drive the development of the agricultural sector. Referring to the properties recently freed from usurpation at the Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, the rector noted that it is not enough simply to prevent wrongdoing but positive work must also be done. He stressed that public property must remain public, and that usurpation or misuse must never be allowed.

Minister Muja described the signing of the memorandum as a highly important first step for both institutions. He also announced a joint work plan to carry out the agreement. The minister pointed to the national agricultural advisory service, food safety, and a center for early warning of storms caused by climate change as key areas where the University of Prishtina will play a vital role.

With the goal of offering expertise for public affairs and the overall good of society, the University of Prishtina has also signed cooperation agreements this year with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning, the Ministry of Justice, and the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship, Trade, and Innovation.