For the first time in its history, a woman has been appointed President of the Academy of Sciences and Arts of Kosovo¹, marking an important milestone for the academic leadership. Justina Shiroka-Pula, 73, is a distinguished economist, professor, and academician whose career has been defined by pioneering work in operational research and advocating for women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship.

To mark the occasion, more than 100 women leaders, academics, and professionals gathered at the Academy of Sciences and Arts to take stock of how far Kosovo has come, how much further there is to go, and what it will truly take to open the doors of science and academia to women and girls. Organized by the Academy of Sciences and Arts of Kosovo with the support of UN Women, the event served as a space for dialogue, reflection, and joint action towards a more inclusive academic community.

Read more at: https://eca.unwomen.org/en/stories/news/2026/04/kosovo-takes-stronger-steps-to-advance-the-leadership-of-women-and-girls-in-science-and-academia