COWEB Final Conference Highlights Major Achievements in Virtual Collaborative Learning at International Burch University

Sarajevo, 30 October 2025 — International Burch University (IBU) proudly served as the host and organiser of the Final International Conference and Project Coordination Meeting within the EU-funded CoWEB Project (Promoting and Facilitating Collaborative Virtual International Learning in the Western Balkans’ Higher Education Institutions), organised on behalf of IBU by Assist. Prof. Malcolm Duerod.
Held under the theme “Empowering Education through Digitalisation – Advancing Virtual Collaborative Learning (VCL),” the conference gathered academic leaders, researchers, and educators from across Europe to discuss innovative pedagogical models, digital transformation, and institutional strategies for promoting collaborative online learning across borders.
The event took place at the International Burch University campus in Sarajevo, featuring opening remarks by the Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences, Assoc. Prof. Irfan Djedovic from IBU, followed by keynote presentations from distinguished experts, including Dr. Esmir Demaj (Epoka University) and Dr. Eric Schoop (Technical University of Dresden).

• Pedagogical Innovation in VCL, exploring collaborative course design, COIL methodologies, and digital infrastructure for effective virtual learning.
• Case Studies and Regional Perspectives, presenting institutional approaches, leadership models, and evaluation of student engagement and learning outcomes.
• Future-Ready Virtual Collaborative Learning, focusing on artificial intelligence, transversal competencies, and intercultural collaboration for sustainable education in the digital age.
  

The event concluded with a students’ competition and award ceremony, recognising outstanding contributions to the CoWEB initiative, followed by a group dinner that celebrated the project’s successful conclusion and international collaboration achievements.

Reflecting on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Mersid Poturak, Rector of International Burch University, stated:
“Hosting the final CoWEB conference marks an important milestone for IBU’s ongoing commitment to innovation in higher education. Through partnerships such as this, we continue to strengthen regional cooperation, enhance digital competencies, and equip students and educators with the skills needed for a globally connected future.”

This event marked the culmination of three years of collaboration, exploring how intercultural and international education can thrive through virtual teamwork and digital innovation.
It was an opportunity to:
Reflect on the opportunities and challenges of collaborative learning at regional and international levels.
Discuss how emerging and disruptive technologies are reshaping Virtual Collaborative Learning.
Explore future developments and new projects that will carry this vision forward.
Strengthen networks, share feedback, and celebrate the results of a strategic partnership among 10 universities from the EU and Western Balkans.

Key Results Achieved:

• Over 400 students and 55 academic staff across 9 countries involved in VCL activities
• 30+ tutors and e-tutors supporting collaboration and digital learning
• 28 courses and modules integrating VCL practices
• Thousands of interactions, teamwork sessions, and shared resources
• More than 12 universities engaged
• Publication of a collective book showcasing research, experiences, and innovative practices from partner institutions

The COWEB Project has strengthened academic cooperation, fostered digital entrepreneurship, and empowered students and educators across the region. This milestone event — and the new publication — will ensure that these achievements continue to inspire the next generation of learners and innovators.