Bringing Institutions, Professionals, and Students Together
On March 30, 2026, the Landscape Fire Management in the Western Balkans (LFMWB) project successfully held the fourth Stakeholder Meeting in Mitrovica, hosted at the Public International Business College Mitrovica (IBCM).
The event brought together representatives from the Municipality of Kamenica and Partesh, firefighters, NGOs, media, and local stakeholders, alongside IBCM students and high school participants, creating a collaborative space where institutional knowledge met youth engagement.
The meeting was opened by Prof. Asst. Milan Veselinovic, Project Manager, and Prof. Asst. Afete Shala Musliu, Working Group Expert and Event Coordinator, highlighted the importance of coordinated local action and the development of a practical Action Plan to better address landscape fire risks.
Throughout the day, participants took part in interactive sessions that combined technical knowledge with real-life experience. Ms. Gresa Neziri introduced key data and tools used in Disaster Risk Management.
Meanwhile, Mr. Arijan Mavriqi provided insights into the use of drones in the field, showing how technology can support monitoring and early response.
An important part of the discussion was led by the firefighting units from Kamenica and Partesh, who presented their work, challenges, and field experiences, bringing a grounded and practical perspective to the meeting.
The role of education and youth engagement was also highlighted through a session by Ms. Mimoza Dermaku, focusing on the impact of training in high schools and the importance of raising awareness from an early stage.
Students were actively involved throughout the meeting, not only as participants but as contributors to the discussions. Reflecting on her experience, IBCM student Anesa Haziri shared:
“I was informed about this activity through the college, and it was a great opportunity to learn how these processes work in practice. It made me more aware of the role we can play as young people in preventing and responding to environmental risks.”
LFMWB Stakeholder Meeting Mitrovica: Key Discussions and Outcomes
The meeting concluded with an open discussion, where participants reflected on key takeaways and shared ideas for upcoming activities. The LFMWB Stakeholder Meeting in Mitrovica highlighted the importance of collaboration between institutions, professionals, and youth in addressing complex environmental challenges.
Building on previous activities, such as the third stakeholder meeting in Kamenica, this event further strengthened cooperation and knowledge exchange among stakeholders.
Moving Forward
By bringing together local authorities, field professionals, and students, the LFMWB Stakeholder Meeting Mitrovica marked another important step toward building more resilient, informed, and connected communities in Kosovo and the Western Balkans.
Through continued collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the use of innovative tools, the LFM-WB project remains committed to strengthening local capacities and supporting sustainable approaches to landscape fire management.
