The WBNet project addresses one of the key development challenges facing the Western Balkans: the significant mismatch between labour market needs and the competencies of higher education graduates. Digital transformation, the rapid growth of the ICT industry, and the shortage of adequately qualified professionals are creating an increasing skills gap, particularly in software development, multimedia, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and other digital sectors. To address this challenge, the project introduces short-cycle study programmes that enable faster, targeted acquisition of up-to-date digital skills.

The project’s primary objective is to establish Centres for Short-Cycle Study Programmes at four higher education institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo. These centres will conduct labour market needs analyses, identify missing competencies, and develop new curricula based on these findings. The programmes will focus on technical and technological content, practical training, and clearly defined learning outcomes aligned with the required higher education qualification level.

The short-cycle study programmes will undergo accreditation by the relevant national authorities and will be delivered in a hybrid format, combining online teaching, on-site examinations, and professional placements in companies. The educational process will be delivered by academic staff from higher education institutions in the Western Balkans, partner institutions from the EU, and industry experts, ensuring strong cooperation between higher education and the business sector.

The project also includes a joint short-cycle study programme in Multimedia Engineering and Computer Science, which will be implemented across all partner institutions. The programme design is based on the exchange of good practices, knowledge transfer, and the introduction of elements of dual education, thereby strengthening the internationalisation of higher education and fostering long-term cooperation between EU and Western Balkan higher education institutions.

WBNet will therefore make a direct contribution to improving graduate employability, strengthening human capital, and accelerating digital transformation across the region. By introducing flexible, labour market-oriented study programmes, the project represents an important step towards reducing the gap between higher education and the evolving needs of the economy.

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http://wbnet.atuss.edu.rs/

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101128813

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