The project places youth and local communities at its centre, leading local development focused on the circular economy through reducing, reusing and recycling, and advancing the green transition in the participating cities.

By developing their capacities, increasing awareness, and promoting collaboration with local policymakers, Green Horizons aims to involve young people and civil society actors in environmental protection and the fostering of more climate-friendly behaviours.

Although still in its early stages, one of the project’s most innovative components is the Green Innovation Lab.

Currently under conceptualisation and development, embracing the concept of an ‘enabling ecosystem’ the Green Innovation Lab will be established within the Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences at “Ukshin Hoti” University of Prizren. It will serve as a practical and research-oriented centre where students, young people and the wider community can gain hands-on experience, conduct studies and design innovative solutions for the green transition and sustainable development in the Prizren region and beyond. Through this initiative, the University of Prizren, CARE International Kosovo and EC Ma Ndryshe aim to strengthen the University’s role as a leading centre for environmental innovation and research in Kosovo.

EU in Kosovo

Building on this foundation, the Green Innovation Lab is is grounded in concrete actions to make its vision a reality:

– Equipping students and youth with advanced skills in environmental practices and green entrepreneurship;

– Fostering collaboration between academia, community, and local actors for innovative solutions; 

– Promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices that contribute to policymaking and concrete actions for environmental protection. 

“The EU support is essential for establishing the Green Innovation Lab. The EU has supported the initiative not only financially but also by facilitating knowledge transfer. Through EU funding and guidance, the project can carry out activities that promote the circular economy, green transition, and advocacy for sustainable community development,” says Merita Bytyqi-Kelmendi, the project manager from CARE International Kosovo.

EU in Kosovo

By empowering young innovators and encouraging sustainable local action, The Green Innovation Lab will not only benefit the students and academic staff of the University of Prizren, but it will also serve as a stepping stone towards cultivating a greener future in Kosovo.