PRISTINA, Apr 17 – A group of researchers from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) have successfully completed a 90-day research attachment program at the University of Pristina (UP), Kosovo, further strengthening international academic and research collaboration between Malaysia and Kosovo.

The secondment program was conducted at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering (FME), UP, from 19 January to 17 April 2026 under the strategic international collaboration initiative between UTM and UP. The program also supported the implementation of UTM’s international research activities under the Synergistic Advanced Manufacturing (SynAM) Horizon European Union (EU) grant project entitled “Integration of Advanced Experiments, Imaging and Computation for Synergistic Structure-Performance Design of Powders and Materials in Additive Manufacturing”.

The attachment program aimed to provide international exposure, strengthen UTM’s collaborative research network, and enhance technical knowledge and research skills in advanced manufacturing and machining technologies.

Networking

Throughout the attachment period, various academic discussions, laboratory activities, and collaborative meetings were conducted with researchers and academic staff at the FME. An official courtesy meeting was also held with the Dean of the faculty, Prof. Dr. Mirlind Bruçi, to discuss future collaboration opportunities, ongoing research initiatives, and potential academic exchange activities between both institutions.

Research Activities

In addition, productive discussions were carried out with members of the research grant team, including Prof. Assoc. Dr. Afrim Gjelaj and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Besart Berisha. These sessions focused on additive manufacturing, machining performance, material characterization, and future collaborative research opportunities under the SynAM Horizon EU framework.

Expanding professional connections

The program also included a special meet-and-greet session with the Embassy of Kosovo in Malaysia representative, Xhelal Shaqiri, in Pristina, Kosovo. The session highlighted the importance of strengthening educational and research partnerships between Malaysia and Kosovo while fostering intercultural understanding and international engagement.

During the secondment program, several experiments and analytical works were successfully carried out at the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) laboratory facilities of the FME. The research activities involved CNC machining processes, sample preparation, machining parameter evaluation, surface characterization, and performance analysis using advanced laboratory equipment available at the host institution.

The hands-on laboratory exposure provided valuable experience in advanced machining technologies and enhanced understanding of experimental methodologies and analytical techniques in mechanical and manufacturing engineering research.

Overall, the secondment program successfully strengthened the international collaboration between UTM and UP while contributing significantly to ongoing research development under the SynAM Horizon EU project. The experience is expected to support future joint publications, research collaborations, and academic exchange programs between both institutions.

Culture, food and weather

Kosovo is well known for its rich culture, traditional food, beautiful mountains, and cold winter weather with snowfall. During winter, snow covers many areas in Kosovo, creating a peaceful and scenic environment, especially in mountainous regions such as Brezovica.

Traditional Kosovo food is unique and influenced by Balkan and Albanian cultures. One famous dish is Byrek, a delicious pastry usually filled with cheese, meat, or spinach. Another popular traditional food is Flia, often served with yogurt or cream during family gatherings. Fresh homemade bread is also an important part of daily meals and hospitality in Kosovo.

The people of Kosovo are known for their warm hospitality, strong family values, and welcoming culture, making visitors feel comfortable and respected.