Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bahtir Hyseni, Vice-Rector for Research at the University “Isa Boletini” in Mitrovica, represented UIBM at the AEIF 2026 Alumni Summit – “Freedom 250: AI Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Western Balkans,” held from 18 to 21 September 2026 on Bjelašnica Mountain, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Prof. Hyseni participated in the Summit as an alumnus of the U.S. Fulbright Faculty Development Program, following his selection through a competitive process conducted by the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo and the U.S. Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Organized by the U.S. Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Summit brought together alumni of U.S. Government exchange programs from across the Western Balkans to explore the role of artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship and innovation in shaping the future of the region.

The programme included keynote presentations, panel discussions, design and mentorship sessions, presentations of innovative solutions, and professional networking activities. Its main topics focused on the transition from research to entrepreneurship, building AI-first companies, AI trends in start-ups and SMEs, the real-world impact of innovation, AI-supported branding and communication, and the development of AI-optimized solutions for the next generation of businesses.