SEEU Hosts Second Session of ChallengeEU Youth Mental Health Initiative in Skopje
Following its successful launch in Tetovo, the ChallengeEU Youth Mental Health Initiative continued its momentum with a second impactful session held at the South East European University (SEEU) Skopje campus on April 2. The event opened with a focus on the ODEI initiative, led by Prof. Arta Mero in her role as ODEI Officer. She reaffirmed the university’s commitment to the values of Opportunity, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, emphasizing that mental health is an essential component of a truly inclusive academic community. Impact Lab in focus: Led by Prof. Shpresa Alija, the session provided students with clear pathways to access the Lab’s resources. The discussion highlighted the vital role of the M.A.R.K.E.T. Officer in bridging the gap between institutional research and the student community, ensuring that support is genuinely accessible. Expert clinical insights: Prof. Dr. Naser Durmishi, a distinguished neuropsychiatrist and SEEU professor, delivered an in-depth overview of the neurological trends and stressors unique to Generation Z. His lecture offered valuable clinical insights and practical strategies for building resilience in an increasingly complex world. With both the Tetovo and Skopje sessions now concluded, the ChallengeEU initiative has successfully sparked a vital cross-campus dialogue, ensuring that mental health remains at the forefront of the student experience.
Advancing ODEI Through Legal Education: The Impact of Mentorship and Student Engagement
In an era where legal education is increasingly called upon to address real-world challenges, the role of mentorship and student engagement has never been more vital. This article highlights how the principles of Opportunity, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) can be effectively advanced through academic work that bridges theory and practice. By showcasing student research on domestic violence and the guidance of dedicated faculty, it demonstrates how legal education can move beyond the classroom to drive meaningful social change. We proudly recognize and commend the outstanding work of students from South East European University, Iva Stefanovska and Bojana Velkovska, authors of the article “From Silence to Visibility: The Role of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Preventing Domestic Violence.” This contribution reflects the core mission of our University: to foster academic excellence that is closely connected to societal impact. The students’ work demonstrates not only a high level of legal analysis, but also a strong sense of social responsibility. By addressing domestic violence through data, institutional critique, and a human rights perspective, they contribute meaningfully to raising awareness and fostering a culture of reporting, protection, and accountability. We particularly emphasize the essential role of their mentor, Prof. Dr. Arta Mero, Professor of Family Law and Inheritance Law and ODEI Officer at South East European University. Through her dedicated mentorship, students are guided not only to understand the legal framework, but also to critically engage with the realities behind the law. Her approach reflects the values of modern legal education, combining doctrinal knowledge with clinical insight, ethical responsibility, and a strong commitment to social justice. As ODEI Officer, her leadership ensures that the principles of Opportunity, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are not merely abstract ideals, but are actively integrated into teaching, research, and student engagement. This work is a clear example of how mentorship and institutional values come together to produce meaningful outcomes. The students’ analysis highlights the complexity of domestic violence, including its less visible forms, and underscores the need for stronger institutional coordination and more inclusive support systems. At the same time, the article powerfully advances the principles of ODEI: Such initiatives reflect our University’s commitment to developing future legal professionals who are not only knowledgeable, but also empathetic, engaged, and ready to contribute to a more just and inclusive society. We remain proud of our students and their mentor, whose work embodies the transformative power of education—turning knowledge into action, and action into societal change. Below you can read the full version of the article. FROM SILENCE TO VISIBILITY: THE ROLE OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION IN PREVENTING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Domestic violence in North Macedonia is increasingly coming out of the shadows, and recent data show a concerning trend. In 2024 alone, 101 cases of psychological violence were reported—almost twice as many as in the previous two years, when 57 cases were recorded in 2022 and 56 in 2023. This increase may indicate two things: that violence is indeed rising, but also that victims are increasingly recognizing it and feel more encouraged to report it. Particularly concerning are the data from the Sector for Internal Affairs in Tetovo. In the period from 2022 to 2024, a total of 1,667 cases of domestic violence were reported, along with 28 cases of sexual violence. Although the number of sexual violence cases is significantly lower, an upward trend is evident, especially in cases involving minor victims. An additional problem is that data from different institutions often do not match. This points to insufficient inter-institutional coordination and the absence of a unified, functional system for monitoring cases of violence. Violence Has Many Faces and Not All Leave Bruises When discussing domestic violence, physical injury is often what first comes to mind. However, the reality is much broader. Psychological control, economic dependence, constant threats, humiliation, and forced sexual relations are also forms of violence that leave deep consequences, even though they are often not visible. Victims can be women, men, children, and elderly individuals—especially those who are economically or emotionally dependent on the abuser. Many do not recognize their situation as violence, as it often develops gradually and is disguised as “care,” “control out of love,” or “jealousy.” The reasons why victims remain silent are often similar: fear of retaliation, financial dependence, feelings of shame or guilt, as well as distrust in institutions. It is precisely this combination of factors that keeps violence hidden behind closed doors. Why ODEI Can Be Part of the Solution One of the concepts increasingly mentioned in violence prevention is ODEI—an acronym for Opportunity, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This approach is applied by institutions and organizations worldwide to create fairer and more inclusive societies, where all individuals have equal access to rights, protection, and support. In the context of domestic violence, the principles of ODEI imply several important aspects. First, diversity reminds us that violence can occur in any family, regardless of education, social status, or cultural background. Second, equity ensures that every victim has fair and effective access to protection, institutional assistance, and legal support. Third, inclusion involves creating an environment in which victims are encouraged to speak out and seek help without fear of judgment or marginalization. When these principles are absent, violence is easily normalized. A culture of silence emerges, cases go unreported, and victims become isolated. Over time, patterns of violence are repeated and passed down from generation to generation. How the Findings Were Reached This research is based on an analysis of institutional reports from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and social services, available statistical data for the period 2022–2024, as well as information from crisis centers, non-governmental organizations, and victim support and protection programs. The data were compared to identify trends, discrepancies, and systemic weaknesses. The conclusion is clear: domestic violence is not a private matter, but a social responsibility. Greater visibility, accurate data, and the application of ODEI principles are the first steps from silence to protection, and from silence to justice. Combating domestic violence is not only about punishing perpetrators,
The M.A.R.K.E.T. Student Pop-Up: Launch of ChallengeEU Youth Mental Health Initiative at SEEU
The ChallengeEU project’s initiative on youth mental health launched yesterday at the Tetovo Campus, marking a significant step in addressing the psychological complexities facing Generation Z. The event opened with a focus on the ODEI initiative, where Prof. Arta Mero emphasized South East European University’s (SEEU) commitment to the values of Opportunity, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This framework reflects the commitment of the ChallengeEU pillar to fostering a campus culture where mental health is treated as an essential component of a truly inclusive academic community. The M.A.R.K.E.T. Student Pop-Up served as a hands-on outreach activity aimed at directly connecting students with available mental health support. A key focus was introducing students to the Impact Lab, led by Prof. Shpresa Alija, informing them about its purpose, the resources it offers, and how to register and make use of its services. The M.A.R.K.E.T. Officer role was also highlighted as the key bridge between the Impact Lab’s institutional research and the student community, ensuring these resources are clearly communicated and genuinely accessible. The highlight of the session was an expert lecture by Prof. Dr. Naser Durmishi, a distinguished neuropsychiatrist and SEEU professor. Dr. Durmishi provided a deep dive into the neurological trends shaping Gen Z, offering clinical insights into the unique stressors this generation faces while providing actionable strategies for resilience. With the Tetovo session successfully concluded, the dialogue continues on April 2, at the Amphitheater on the Skopje Campus from 11:00 to 12:30, inviting the community to further engage with these critical topics.
Two Weeks of M.A.R.K.E.T. Officer Impact: Transforming Collaboration in the Polog Region
Over the past two weeks, M.A.R.K.E.T. Officer Shpresa Alija, together with team members of working package 4, has been engaged in a series of meaningful M.A.R.K.E.T. Pop-Up Meetings, strengthening cooperation between SEEU and key partners across the public sector, private industry, and civil society — all within the ChallengeEU framework. These engagements brought together a diverse set of partners who play a crucial role in shaping regional development across several key themes: Local Governance, Digital Transition & Youth Engagement A constructive meeting with the Municipality of Gostivar focused on identifying community challenges and exploring how SEEU students can contribute through digital transition projects, internships, and MakerHathon activities. Regional Planning, Sustainability & Applied Learning Discussions with the Center for Development of the Polog Planning Region (CDPPR) emphasized involving students from Architecture, Environment, Energy, and Economy in hands-on regional development and GIS-based projects, strengthening applied learning experiences. Agri-Food Innovation & Industry–Academia Collaboration Ongoing cooperation with Vezë Sharri continues through digital innovation initiatives, logistics improvements, and applied student engagement within the agri-food sector. Creative Industries, Visual Communication & Project-Based Learning Collaboration with Arberia Design, a leading graphic design and printing company, focused on student internships and project-based learning in graphic design, digital communication, and creative content development. Cold Chain Logistics, Digitalization & Workforce Development Engagement with UniFrigo, a manufacturing company of a cold-chain refrigeration, identified concrete opportunities for internships and digital transformation initiatives aligned with real industry needs. Civil Society Engagement, Well-being & Social Awareness Meeting with Mollëkuqja, a civil society organization, highlighted the need on communication initiatives, awareness campaigns, mental health guest lectures in high schools, and creative student involvement. All of these meetings have been very important in terms of ChallengeEU core mission and contribute to strengthening regional partnerships, creating real-world learning opportunities for students, supporting innovation across sectors, Connecting academia with industry and public institutions “It has been inspiring to see how each partner is eager to collaborate and open new opportunities for our students. These meetings mark an important step towards impactful regional cooperation”, said Shpresa Alija, M.A.R.K.E.T. Officer, SEEU. Thanks to this kind of initiatives SEEU students now have expanded access to meaningful, impactful engagements e.g. MakerHathon preparations with high schools, mental health educational activities, internship pathways and digital transformation projects.
Family Law through ODEI M.A.R.K.E.T.: Student Perspectives
The event “Family Law through ODEI M.A.R.K.E.T.: Student Perspectives”, organised as part of ChallengeEU, is a compelling example of how innovative, inclusive and student-centred learning can generate meaningful academic and societal impact at South East European University (SEEU). The event opened with remarks from Prof. Dr Arta Mero, who emphasised the pedagogical value of the ODEI M.A.R.K.E.T. approach in fostering student advocacy, critical thinking and socially engaged legal education. This was followed by a welcome address from Prof. Dr. Veli Kreci, Director of the Max van der Stoel Institute, who highlighted the importance of embedding openness, diversity, equity, and inclusion into academic practice and curricula, particularly within the framework of the ChallengeEU Alliance. Representing the student perspective, Mevlan Ademi, Student Ambassador for ChallengeEU, reflected on the role of students as active contributors to university initiatives and European academic collaboration, underscoring how such formats empower students to engage meaningfully with societal challenges. Through the ODEI M.A.R.K.E.T. framework (Multi-Actor Research, Knowledge, Exchange, Teams), students moved beyond traditional classroom learning to become active researchers, presenters, and contributors to public and academic discourse. Their work demonstrated not only strong legal knowledge but also critical reflection, ethical awareness, and social sensitivity, particularly in addressing family law challenges through the lenses of diversity, equity, openness, and inclusion. The integration of the M.A.R.K.E.T. model in Family Law confirms its value as a sustainable, inclusive, and high-impact educational approach, enhancing academic excellence while strengthening the social relevance of legal education. The event also highlighted the transformative role of academic staff and fourth-year student mentors, whose guidance and commitment enabled participating students to translate theoretical knowledge into practice-oriented and socially responsive legal analysis. This collaborative effort reflects SEEU’s core values and reinforces its position as a leading institution within the European University Alliance, actively shaping modern, responsible and inclusive higher education. Presentations on adoption, domestic violence, child marriage, post-divorce parental responsibilities, children’s participation in legal proceedings and evolving approaches to divorce were delivered by: Albina Pajaziti, Sara Besimi, Era Fejzullai, Arion Dauti, Erjon Murseli; Iva Stefanovska, Bojana Velkovska, Emanuela Dimovska, Suejla Sulejmani, Zahide Hajdari, Drita Emini, Sara Vejseli; Aida Selami, Fatime Sejfuli, Leonita Xhelili, Mimoza Jahiu; Erlind Rufati, Valon Bexheti; Lindihana Uzeiri, Amina Iljazi, Eugerta Selami; and Jehona Saiti, Albina Rexhepi and Djellza Pajaziti, under the mentorship of Elisa Murseli, Mila Arsić, Elsa Havziju, Amina Ademi, Elfatir Lloga, Mevlan Ademi, Era Sadiku and Omer Ajruli (fourth-year students). The presentations were followed by an open and dynamic debate, during which students, mentors, and participants discussed research challenges, the role of mentoring, and emerging perspectives for family law within the ODEI framework, further enriching the academic exchange and reinforcing the participatory nature of the initiative. Strong engagement from legal practitioners (attorneys, notaries and judges), NGOs, institutional representatives, and students from other faculties and universities significantly amplified the event’s impact. Stakeholders welcomed the initiative and described it as a unique and rarely seen format in the legal field, emphasising its value in bridging academia and practice. As key collaborators of SEEU, they recognised the importance of such initiatives in advancing legal scholarship and strengthening societal trust in the legal system. The event concluded with a certificate ceremony, recognising the commitment and academic contribution of all participating students and mentors. Overall, this initiative confirms that ODEI M.A.R.K.E.T. within the ChallengeEU framework is not merely a project activity but a sustainable educational model, one that empowers students as agents of change, strengthens academic practice, and positions SEEU as a hub of inclusive, forward-looking, and socially responsible higher education with a tangible impact on both society and academia.
ChallengeEU Empowers Early-Career Researchers at SEEU
As part of the ChallengeEU Talent Academy, South East European University successfully organized (6th December) the “Meet the Researchers” training session, designed to inspire and empower early-career researchers. The goal of this session was to encourage socially relevant research and strengthen participants’ ability to effectively translate scientific findings into real-world impact. During the Meet the Researchers event with coffee in hand and plenty of motivation, attendees enjoyed a series of insightful presentations showcasing three socially impactful research case studies – along with valuable guidance on scientific writing and research design. The training session was opened by Pro-Rector for Planning, Research, and Entrepreneurship, Prof. Dr. Veland Ramadani, who shared practical strategies and key steps for navigating the publication process with confidence. The session was followed by the Director of the Max van der Stoel Institute, Prof. Veli Kreci, who provided clear guidance on crafting strong, testable hypotheses that lay the foundation for robust research. The three case studies that followed the session were mainly on topics aligned with the Challenge EU three Smart Specialisation Areas, that of Smart Digitalisation, Sustainable Futures, Health and Well-being. Fortesa Asani, a researcher at the Max van der Stoel Institute, presented findings on how social perceptions influence individual well-being, highlighting implications for policy and practice. Lejla Ademi Shaqiri, a researcher at the Max van der Stoel Institute, demonstrated methods for assessing indoor air quality and discussed its importance for public health. Lastly, Shqipe Salii, a teaching assistant at the Faculty of Contemporary Sciences and Technologies, introduced an innovative machine-learning approach that enhances accuracy while protecting patient data privacy. The event brought together curious minds, meaningful discussions, and inspiring ideas.
Orange for Awareness at SEEU: Empowering Law Students Against Gender-Based Violence
South East European University (SEEU), through its Faculty of Law and the ODEI Working Group (Openness, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) of the ChallengeEU project, launched the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with the seminar “Orange for Awareness: Empowering Law Students Against Gender-Based Violence.” This year’s global theme, “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls”, guided the keynote messages and discussions throughout the event. The seminar opened with remarks by Prof. Dr. Arta Mero, who emphasized the importance of preparing future legal professionals to address both physical and digital forms of violence against women and girls. She highlighted SEEU’s ongoing commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive academic environment for all students. The event brought together law students, academic staff, NGOs, gender-based violence activists, and participants from ChallengeEU partner universities who joined online. The presence of SEEU’s leadership demonstrated strong institutional support: Rector Prof. Dr. Sadudin Ibrahimi, Pro-Rector Prof. Dr. Veland Ramadani, and Prof. Dr. Besa Arifi, Advisor for Community and International Relations. The seminar featured a series of powerful contributions from experts and practitioners in the field. Vilma Dule, activist and survivor of gender-based violence, offered a deeply personal and academic reflection in her presentation “Rebirth as an Act of Resistance.” Elizabeta Bozhinovska, Programme Director at HERA, highlighted the importance of comprehensive services for victims, perpetrators, and men in crisis. From the University of Tetova, Prof. Dr. Hana Saliu discussed the psychological impacts of gender-based violence and the therapeutic interventions available to survivors. SEEU’s Prof. Dr. Albana Meta-Stojanova examined the alarming rise of femicide in her talk “Femicide: Chronicle of a Foretold Murder,” while Prof. Dr. Vedije Ratkoceri provided an overview of the criminal legal framework for protection against gender-based violence and its alignment with international standards. A special highlight of the event was the acknowledgment of the “Emine Zendeli” Legal Clinic, which supports victims of gender-based violence through primary legal assistance and offers students essential practical training and real-case experience. Today’s seminar reaffirmed that gender-based violence is not only a legal or institutional challenge, but a shared social responsibility. Only through cooperation among universities, institutions, organizations, activists, and students can we build a safer, fairer, and more humane society. SEEU and ChallengeEU remain committed to safeguarding human rights and standing united against all forms of gender-based violence. Together, we rise against gender-based violence.
Strengthening University–Industry Cooperation: HSO and SEEU Delegations Visit Associated Partner
Representatives from Hochschule Offenburg (HSO) visited South East European University (SEEU) in North Macedonia and the agrifood company Veze Sharri as part of the ChallengeEU Alliance. The visit strengthened university–industry cooperation and created new opportunities for students, research collaboration and regional development in the Polog region. A delegation from HSO led by Prof. Dr. Stephan Trahasch, Rector, and Prof. Dr. Tobias Hagen, Vice-Rector for Internationalization and Managing Director of ChallengeEU, visited South East European University (SEEU) in North Macedonia, where they met with Prof. Dr. Sadudin Ibraimi, Rector, SEEU’s high management, and the ChallengeEU teams. Connecting ChallengeEU with the Agrifood Sector As part of the ongoing efforts to advance university-industry partnerships within the ChallengeEU Alliance, they visited Veze Sharri, one of the project’s associated partners and a leading agrifood company in the Polog region. The visit was organized and led by the M.A.R.K.E.T. Officer of ChallengeEU, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shpresa Alija from South East European University (SEEU). During the meeting, the owner of Veze Sharri, Arben Abdurahmani, welcomed the delegation and presented the company’s development, production processes, and strategic vision. The delegation emphasized that Veze Sharri plays an important role not only as a regional business leader but also as a contributor to local development, workforce capacity building, and knowledge transfer. Through its involvement in ChallengeEU, the company will provide SEEU students with meaningful opportunities for practical learning, professional growth, and exposure to real-sector challenges and future innovation initiatives.This visit marks an important step toward strengthening long-term collaboration within the ChallengeEU ecosystem and creating impactful pathways for students, academic staff, and the local community. Joint Pathways for Students and Research During their time in North Macedonia, the delegation led by SEEU Project Lead, Prof. Veli Kreci, met with staff from Max van der Stoel Institute and the ChallengeEU team, followed by a meeting with Rector Ibraimi and the university’s management team: Academician Prof. Abdylmenaf Bexheti, Prof. Veland Ramadani, Prof. Besa Arifi, and Prof. Florije Ismaili. The discussions centred on academic collaboration, digital initiatives, and areas of shared interest. The visit concluded with a meeting coordinated by Prof. Dr. Mennan Selimi and the SEEU deans to review possibilities for developing joint and double-degree study programmes in engineering, computer science/AI and business.
The Quadruple Helix in Practice: M.A.R.K.E.T. at SEEU
South East European University (SEEU) convened the forum “Connecting Education and the Labor Market” under the ChallengeEU umbrella, a milestone event reflecting the alliance’s ambition to shape its immediate environment and co-create its future. The meeting advanced cooperation among universities, industry, public institutions, and civil society in the spirit of the quadruple-helix model. We believe regional development and academic excellence go hand in hand. In his opening, SEEU Rector Prof. Dr. Sadudin Ibraimi highlighted the University’s commitment to creating tangible opportunities for students and partners through innovative, collaborative platforms. Acad. Prof. Dr. Abdylmenaf Bexheti followed with a motivational address on how the quadruple helix strengthens links between education, industry, government, and the community. Prof. Dr. Veli Kreci presented the ChallengeEU initiative, while Shpresa Alija outlined her responsibilities as M.A.R.K.E.T. Officer. Hamit Kamberi introduced the M.A.R.K.E.T. Digital Center, showcasing its features and partner benefits. The forum closed with an open discussion and networking reception, where participants exchanged ideas and explored avenues for future cooperation. Attendees included representatives of associated partners and key stakeholders. M.A.R.K.E.T. (Mapping, Awareness Raising, Knowledge Exchange, and Training) is a digital hub and collaboration platform developed by SEEU within ChallengeEU to connect the University with businesses, public institutions, and civil society organizations.
For Better Communication: Internal Training at SEEU
Effective internal communication is key to the success of any international alliance — and the ChallengeEU Alliance is no exception. With this in mind, the Work Package 6 (WP6) team, which leads communication and dissemination efforts across the Alliance, organized a dedicated internal training session at South East European University (SEEU) on 2 July. The training, titled “Internal Communication Tools and Effective Collaboration”, aimed to strengthen coordination among different teams involved in the ChallengeEU project at SEEU and to establish a more unified and effective communication culture across all university departments engaged in the initiative. The session was led by Edlira Palloshi Disha, communication specialist and researcher at the Max van der Stoel Institute (MVDSI), who introduced key tools, techniques, and principles for impactful communication within a complex, multi-stakeholder environment. Drawing from practical experience, Nerodia Selimi from SEEU’s Public Relations Office shared valuable best practices and examples from the university’s communication strategy. The training brought together a diverse group of participants representing all SEEU work packages involved in ChallengeEU, including colleagues from Participants included representatives from the International Relations Office, Career Center, the Pro-Rector for Digitalization, Business Innovation Center, MVDSI’s Project Coordination Unit, deans, and other academic staff and administrative offices across the university. This broad participation created a dynamic environment for knowledge-sharing and collective reflection. One of the session’s main objectives was to initiate a more standardized internal communication framework across SEEU’s project teams, ensuring smoother collaboration, clearer messaging, and improved responsiveness. Participants actively engaged in discussions on: The training session laid the groundwork for more efficient collaboration within SEEU and, by extension, within the broader ChallengeEU Alliance. By aligning internal communication practices, the university is taking a critical step toward ensuring that the Alliance functions as a truly integrated and collaborative ecosystem. This event highlights how internal capacity building can directly contribute to the success of international cooperation — reinforcing ChallengeEU’s core mission to bring European universities together to tackle shared challenges through joint innovation, research, and education
