On April 9, 2025, the COWEB Project launched the International Virtual Collaborative Learning (VCL) module, titled “NextGen TransDinarica: Building Value for Sustainable Tourism in the Western Balkans”. The event, held online via Microsoft Teams, brought together 143 students, academic staff and partners from 9 different countries in a purposeful opening session.
The event was moderated by Dr. Esmir Demaj (EPOKA University), Project Manager of COWEB, who welcomed participants and introduced the agenda. The session began with an overview of the TransDinarica initiative presented by Dr. Agim Kasaj (UET), highlighting the project's mission to enhance the cross-border cycling route as a driver for sustainable regional development.
Dr. Mattis Altman (TU Dresden) presented the VCL pedagogical approach emphasizing the value of virtual mobility and intercultural exchange integrated into students’ regular academic programs. He outlined the pedagogical framework, grounded in case-based, situational learning and supported by both synchronous and asynchronous collaboration in mixed teams. The module also supports the development of professional, self-, and social competencies—essential for effective participation in international project environments.
MSc Anisa Isufi (EPOKA University) introduced the E-Tutor role, detailing how mentors will support team communication, coordination, and overall engagement throughout the 8-week module. Dr. Valentina Ndou (University of Salento) provided an introductory overview of the Business Model Canvas, which will be used to support strategic thinking, innovation, and alignment with stakeholder interests.
The session concluded with a Q&A and a practical orientation to MS Teams, where students explored their group channels and initiated first contact with their peers and E-Tutors.
The module brings together a broad consortium of institutions from Albania, Germany, Italy, Slovenia, Kosovo, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Tunisia, and Georgia. It aims not only to foster academic collaboration but also to challenge students to co-create actionable, sustainable tourism solutions for the Western Balkans.
By combining academic structure with real-world challenges, the International VCL module represents a concrete step forward in strengthening cross-border cooperation and empowering the next generation of professionals to think critically, act collaboratively, and lead sustainably.