The International Balkan University’s (IBU) International Relations Office (IRO) successfully hosted the 8th Erasmus+ International Staff Week 2025, welcoming 50 representatives from 31 universities across 8 different countries. The event, aimed to promote networking, share best practices, and support EU priorities such as digital transformation and inclusion, marked another milestone in strengthening international academic collaboration and promoting key European Union priorities.

The Opening Ceremony, held at IBU Campus, was led by the event moderator, who warmly welcomed the distinguished guests, including the Rector of International Balkan University, Prof. Dr. Lutfi Sunar, and IBU Vice-Rector and the Erasmus+ Institutional Coordinator, Prof. Dr. Snezana Bilic. During their speeches, both emphasized the importance of global cooperation, knowledge exchange, and the role of Erasmus+ programs in nurturing inclusive and diverse academic environments.

Rector Sunar, during his speech, provided general information about IBU's activities and highlighted the importance of IBU's academic quality. He spoke passionately about the university's mission to deliver high-quality education and its continuous efforts to expand international partnerships. He emphasized IBU's commitment to fostering an environment that encourages academic excellence, cultural diversity, and global awareness. Rector Sunar also noted the recent infrastructural developments at IBU, the growth of its academic programs, and its expanding research initiatives, which are designed to prepare students for success in an increasingly globalized world. He concluded his speech by thanking the Erasmus+ partners for their continued collaboration and reaffirmed IBU's dedication to contributing positively to European and global education standards.

Prof. Dr. Snezana Bilic shared insights on the Erasmus+ projects of IBU, showcasing the institution's dedication to international collaboration and student mobility.

This year’s International Staff Week also celebrated the European Year of Digital Citizenship Education, underlining the critical need for equipping individuals with digital skills and fostering safe, responsible use of technology in an increasingly digital world.

Highlighting IBU’s successful implementation of Erasmus+ programs, Prof. Dr. Snezana Bilic expressed gratitude to the IRO team for their dedication over the past decade, making IBU the leading institution in North Macedonia for Erasmus+ participation. Since its establishment, IBU has hosted over 400 academic and administrative staff and nearly 300 students from various partner institutions.

Participants also attended the IBU Campus tour, visiting high-end facilities, laboratories, clinics, and other state-of-the-art facilities, gaining a deeper insight into the university's commitment to quality education and modern infrastructure.

The event set a positive tone for the coming days, reinforcing IBU’s commitment to global cooperation and quality education through its Erasmus+ partnerships.