The “Young Innovators 2024” competition marked the culmination of the Innovation course at the Management Department, Faculty of Economics, University of Tirana, drawing over 300 attendees to the Liria building. Among them were Vice Rector Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bernard Dosti, Vice Deans, faculty members, and representatives from various sectors.
Dr. Nertila Busho, the Innovation course lecturer, opened the event with gratitude towards all participants and supporters. She urged students to continue inspiring innovation in their future workplaces, drawing from their experiences in the course. Moreover, Vice Rector Prof. Assoc. Dr. Bernard Dosti highlighted the importance of startups for economic development and praised the Faculty of Economics’ role in fostering entrepreneurship.
Under the guidance of lecturer Mrs. Megi Çali, 13 finalist groups presented their projects to a panel of professional evaluators from diverse sectors.
Following the presentations, participation certificates were distributed to all finalist students. Notably, the winning ideas were:
- First Prize: “Melodi Shqiptare” (Albanian Melody) by Rejana Avdiaj, Sonila Palushi, and Trendafle Gashi.
- Second Prize: “Espoir” by Arsela Cukaj, Fjorentina Shimplaku, Vilma Xhaferri, Jorgen Peka, and Marjo Derveni.
- Third Prize: “INTEGRACHAT” by Erik Çalaj, Alger Qesari, Elda Halili, and Kismete Guri.
Crucially, the third prize was made possible with the support of BALFIN Group and other companies. BALFIN Group’s active involvement underscores our commitment to nurturing innovation and fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs in Albania. Our investment in initiatives like the “Young Innovators 2024” competition significantly contributes to the growth and development of the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
