|
Kosovo American Education Fund (KAEF) Fellow, Premtim Shaqiri, recently shared an update on his first year of graduate studies, reflecting on the academic, professional, and personal experiences that have shaped his studies while continuing his work in Kosova.
“Pursuing a Master’s in Applied Intelligence at Georgetown University has been a truly empowering experience. Studying at one of the world’s leading universities in security and international affairs has deepened my understanding of contemporary developments in the field, sharpened my vision, and strengthened my confidence to critically examine existing policies and think about how they can be improved.
Thanks to the Kosovo American Education Fund, I am able to engage with global perspectives in intelligence and security while immediately applying these lessons in my professional role. I am especially focused on data-driven analysis, emerging technologies, and practical approaches that can help strengthen institutional capabilities in Kosova.
Balancing graduate studies with full-time work has been challenging, but highly rewarding. During my first year of studies, Georgetown has not only offered a well-designed academic program for working professionals, but also provided access to an exceptional network and meaningful opportunities for professional growth.
This journey became even more meaningful when my wife and I were blessed with our twin daughters, our two little ‘cherries,’ who have joyfully turned my time management upside down.”
| | |
|
KAEF Fellows:
Graduating Cohort of 2026
| |
| Kosovo American Education Fund (KAEF) extends its warmest congratulations to the 2025-2026 cohort fellows who recently completed their graduate studies in the United States. | | | | |
Flatra Hasimi graduated from The George Washington University Law School with an LL.M. in International and Comparative Law. Reflecting on her experience, Flatra described her time at GW Law as "an incredible experience" and shared that receiving the Thelma Weaver Memorial Award, presented to the graduating LL.M. student who contributed most to the law school community, was especially meaningful. This summer, she will move to New York City to begin her career as an Associate in the Project Development and Finance group at Latham & Watkins, where she looks forward to carrying the experiences and connections she gained during her studies into the next chapter of her career.
| | |
Yll Sadiku graduated from Harvard Law School with an LL.M., a milestone he described as "one of the proudest moments of my life." Reflecting on his journey, Yll expressed gratitude for the support he received, noting "none of this would have been possible without the support of KAEF." He also highlighted the program's lasting contribution to Kosova through generations of alumni who have returned home to serve in government, business, and law, adding that he hopes to follow in their footsteps and use what he has learned to give back to Kosova. Looking ahead, Yll plans to gain additional experience in corporate law before returning home, where he hopes to apply both the knowledge and practical skills he has developed to support the growth of Kosova's legal and business sectors.
| | | Originally established with funds from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Kosovo American Education Fund Fellowship Program (KAEF) is primarily funded through the generous support of individuals and businesses in Kosova, the Government of Kosova, American donors, and U.S. universities. | | |
| USKEB: Fulbright Grantees Conclude their U.S.-based Programs | |
| |
Humphrey Fellow Meliza Qorraj completed her fellowship in Public Administration at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University 2026, where she deepened her knowledge through academic coursework, meaningful discussions, and engagement with professionals from around the world.
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program offers accomplished mid-career professionals from Kosova a 10-month, non-degree academic and professional development experience in the United States.
Applications for the 2027–2028 program are open until July 31, 2026. Learn more and apply: https://xk.usembassy.gov/humphrey
| | | | | |
Fulbright Kosova grantee Aulona Hoti graduated from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in Baltimore, Maryland, where she earned her Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Painting. During her studies, Aulona refined her artistic voice, strengthened her conceptual approach, and developed her practice through studio work, critiques, and exhibitions. She embraced MICA’s intellectually engaging environment and Baltimore’s vibrant arts community, which fostered both her creative and professional growth. Reflecting on her Fulbright experience, Aulona highlights the supportive artistic community and the opportunities that helped shape her journey as an emerging artist. Read more about her journey here.
| | |
Fulbright Kosova grantee Drin Govori graduated from the MBA program at Babson College’s F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business, where he distinguished himself through academic excellence, leadership, and an entrepreneurial mindset. During his studies, Drin was recognized with the Poets & Quants 2026 Best & Brightest MBA distinction, which honors outstanding MBA students from leading business schools worldwide. He also received the Lewis W. Mustard Award for Highest GPA in the Two-Year MBA Program, recognizing the top academic performance in his cohort.
| | | | | |
Fulbright Foreign Student Program grantee Ilir Hajraj graduated from the University of Michigan Law School in 2026, where he specialized in Technology Law. His experience combined rigorous academic training with practical and cultural experiences that further advanced his legal expertise. A highlight of the Fulbright experience for Ilir, was receiving the Certificate of Merit Award for outstanding performance during Fall 2025 in Introduction to Constitutional Law and American Legal Process. Read more about his journey here.
| | Fulbright Kosova grantee Mjellma Kallaba graduated from Penn State Dickinson Law in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where she earned her LL.M. in Intellectual Property, Information Technology, and Privacy Law. During her studies, Mjellma strengthened her legal expertise through a dynamic academic environment, developing practical skills in intellectual property, technology, and privacy law. She demonstrated dedication and resilience while navigating rigorous coursework, actively engaging in the classroom, and collaborating closely with peers and faculty. Reflecting on her Fulbright experience, Mjellma highlights the supportive law school community and the academic opportunities that contributed to her professional and personal growth. Read more about her journey here. | | | Fulbright Foreign Student Program grantee Bardha Çelaj completed her Master of Development Practice (MDP), UC Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy 2026. Her studies enhanced her expertise in policy analysis, sustainable development, and human rights while providing opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and global collaboration. A highlight of the Fulbright experience for Bardha was the honor of delivering the cohort’s commencement speech. Read more about her journey here. | | Fulbright Kosova grantee Osman Dzudzevic graduated from Indiana University Bloomington’s O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, where he earned his Master of Public Affairs (MPA). During his studies, Osman strengthened his expertise in public policy, financial and energy management, and applied theory to real-world policy challenges. Balancing rigorous coursework, applied projects, and parenthood, he demonstrated resilience, dedication, and a strong commitment to public service. Reflecting on his Fulbright experience, Osman highlights Bloomington’s vibrant international community and the meaningful connections that shaped both his academic and personal growth. Read more about his journey here. | | The Fulbright Program in Kosova is jointly funded by the U.S. Department of State and the Government of Kosova. | | |
| Fulbright Grantees Celebrate a Year of Teaching, Research, and Community Engagement | |
| |
On May 12, as the 2025–2026 academic year neared its conclusion, the United States-Kosovo Educational Exchange Board (USKEB) hosted a farewell event honoring Fulbright U.S. Student Program grantees and celebrating a year of educational and cultural exchange in Kosova.
Throughout the academic year, institutions including the University of Prishtina, University “Isa Boletini” Mitrovica, University “Ukshin Hoti” Prizren, the American Advising Center, American Corners, RIT Kosovo, the Evidence Synthesis Group, and the National Institute of Public Health of Kosova benefited from the contributions of Fulbright English Teaching Assistants (ETAs) and student researchers.
Through their teaching, research, and community engagement, Fulbright grantees strengthened institutional partnerships and promoted mutual understanding between Kosova and the United States. The event also recognized the support of the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo and partner institutions throughout the academic year. View the full album here.
| | |
| YES Program Students Return Home to a Warm Welcome | |
| |
On June 5, the 2025-2026 Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program participants returned to Kosova after completing their exchange year in the United States.
They were warmly welcomed by family, friends, YES Alumni, and American Councils staff. The returning students were greeted with handmade signs prepared by alumni, adding a personal and heartfelt touch to the moment.
The arrival marked the end of an important chapter and the beginning of a new one, as students return home with new experiences, skills, and memories to share with their communities in Kosova.
| | |
| FLEX and YES Alumni Build Community Project Skills at IDEAL Workshop | |
| |
From April 24 - 28, the IDEAL Workshop, organized by American Councils for International Education, was held in Skopje, North Macedonia, bringing together Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program and Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program alumni from across the Balkans for a week of learning, collaboration, and community engagement.
Structured around the IDEAL framework - Identify challenges, Develop understanding, Establish plans, Act, and Lead by example - the program focused on equipping participants with tools to design and implement community-based projects.
Across thematic tracks such as community education and international relations, financial literacy, entrepreneurship and commercial diplomacy, and health and well-being, participants engaged in hands-on sessions led by mentors, emphasizing practical learning and reflection. Alumni Coordinators from the region also supported the workshop through curriculum preparation, mentor coordination, and facilitation.
The program included applied field activities with local students, allowing participants to put their learning into practice while strengthening regional connections through peer exchange and collaboration.
| | |
| Celebrating 10 Years of YTILI | |
| |
From May 15 -17, to celebrate ten years of impact through the Young Transatlantic Innovation Leaders Initiative (YTILI), American Councils and the YTILI Alumni Network gathered entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders from across Europe and Eurasia in Belgrade, Serbia.
Four YTILI alumni from Kosova participated in the summit, Çelik Nimani, Founder of 38Shift; Vildane Maliqi, co-founder of Lab of Activism and Progressive Society (LAPS); Flutura Sadiku, Board Member of Youth Peace Ambassadors Network (YPAN); and Enis Qafeleshi, CTO at Makerspace Innovation Center Prizren.
| | |
The YTILI Alumni Summit brought together a dynamic community of changemakers, including 116 alumni from 41 countries, to strengthen transatlantic collaboration and foster new partnerships. The event featured 34 speakers and moderators, including representatives from U.S. embassies, while celebrating a decade of YTILI’s impact on entrepreneurship and innovation.
Throughout the summit, participants explored strategies for building and scaling businesses through discussions on leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Industry-focused sessions highlighted emerging opportunities in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fintech, venture capital, gaming, creative technology, and EdTech.
Alumni also led workshops and peer-learning sessions focused on business growth, entrepreneurial problem-solving, integrating AI into daily workflows, and strengthening founder support networks. Networking opportunities connected participants with diplomats, members of the U.S. business community, local entrepreneurs, and regional partners, while mentorship sessions, discussions on well-being, and collaborative activities further supported participants’ professional development.
| | Thank you for being part of our world! | | | | |
