Strengthening Conservation Biology in the Balkans
The goal of the overall project is to strengthen and form a research network between two Albanian universities (University of Tirana and University of Vlora) as well as one Swiss university (University of Zurich) specifically in terms of conservation biology and education. For a developing country like Albania with a surplus amount of natural resources, the education of its youth in the environmental sciences is vital. Conservation biology can help Albania sustain a rich biodiversity and also provide a basis for responsible ecotourism.
Conservation Biology Model
Masters student Melissa Skrelja will assess conservation biology models that are used and have proven to be successful in Switzerland as well as conservation biology courses that are taught at Swiss universities. Based on success rate, the goal is to implement these conservation biology courses and models into two Albanian universities where conservation biology is more of a relatively new field of study.
Modernization of Universities
The implementation of conservation biology courses and models are crucial to preserving Albania's rich biodiversity. Setting up new labs and strengthening old labs, improving research qualifications for university students, providing joint field trips with Albanian and Swiss students are a few ways the project aims to modernize the universities in Albania.