For the first time in its history, the Academy of Sciences and Arts of Kosovo has appointed a woman as its President, marking a significant milestone for gender representation in academic leadership. The new president, Justina Shiroka-Pula, is a 73-year-old economist, professor and academic known for her pioneering contributions in operational research as well as her long-standing advocacy for women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship.
To mark this development, more than 100 women leaders, academics and professionals gathered at the Academy to reflect on progress in advancing women’s participation in science and academia in Kosovo. The event, organised by the Academy with support from UN Women, provided a platform for dialogue on existing barriers, achievements, and the need for stronger pathways for women and girls to reach leadership positions in academic institutions.
Data highlighted during the event shows that women in Kosovo are achieving strong academic outcomes, representing 70% of bachelor’s graduates, 64% of master’s graduates and 56% of PhD graduates. However, these educational gains have not translated into equal leadership representation, with women holding only 22.5% of decision-making positions overall and just one woman among 25 members of the Academy, reflecting a persistent gap between education and leadership opportunities.
Speakers emphasised that the issue is not lack of talent but limited access to leadership pathways. The newly appointed President noted that while women and girls are highly present in science, structural barriers continue to restrict their advancement into senior roles, highlighting the need to create more inclusive institutional environments.
The event also recognised pioneering women who contributed to opening opportunities for future generations in academia. UN Women representatives stressed that sustained institutional commitment, visible female leadership, and stronger collaboration across universities and public institutions are essential to achieving lasting gender equality in science and research.
In parallel, UN Women has been working with the University of Prishtina to strengthen gender equality in higher education, including the development of its first Gender Action Plan. The initiative aims to ensure balanced representation, safer academic environments, and integration of gender perspectives into teaching and research, supported through regional programmes focused on inclusive governance in the Western Balkans.
