Students of the University of Prešov are invited to apply for an exciting international learning opportunity within the Q-Helix Alliance – a thematic school focused on Smart City Development: Digital Innovation, Sustainable Urban Planning and Citizen-Centred Governance.

The programme will take place from 26 to 30 October 2026 in Mitrovica and Prishtina, Kosovo, and will be hosted by the International Business College Mitrovica (IBCM).

Why apply?

This thematic school offers a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in addressing real urban challenges. Participants will work in international teams and develop practical smart city concepts responding to current issues faced by municipalities in Kosovo.

The programme combines:

• expert lectures and interactive workshops,
• field visits and study excursions,
• meetings with local stakeholders,
• project-based teamwork,
• intercultural exchange activities.

Key topics

The thematic school covers a wide range of interdisciplinary areas, including:

• smart cities and urban innovation,
• digital governance,
• citizen engagement and co-creation,
• sustainable mobility and transport systems,
• environmental management and urban resilience,
• smart infrastructure and public services,
• data-driven urban planning and decision-making,
• sustainable development in the Western Balkans region.

Who can apply?

The programme is open to students from relevant study fields, such as: management, economics, public administration, sustainability studies, IT, computer science, artificial intelligence, geography, political science, law, European studies, and related disciplines.

Financial support

Participation is fully funded through the Q-Helix Alliance, coordinated by WSB University (Poland). Selected students will receive financial support covering:

• travel costs (Travel Grant),
• accommodation and subsistence costs (Accommodation and Subsistence Grant),
  in accordance with the project rules.

How to apply

Interested students should complete the application form (PDF format) and submit it via email to:

📩 ema.fricekova@unipo.sk

⏰ Application deadline: 3 July 2026 (12:00 CET)

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain international experience, develop practical skills, and collaborate on innovative solutions for sustainable cities.