On 3 December 2025, the Faculty of Economics, University of Niš hosted a joint event dedicated to the co-creation of new study programmes and the CROSS-REIS Info Day 2025. The event brought together representatives of the business sector, public institutions, faculty leadership, academic staff, students, and the CROSS-REIS project team for a constructive dialogue on aligning higher education with evolving labour market needs and the green transition.
The Dean of the Faculty opened the event by emphasising the importance of a strategic partnership between academia and the business community. He underlined that the rapidly changing economic environment requires universities to move beyond traditional models and equip students with practical, future-oriented skills. Representatives from companies and institutions shared insights into the competencies expected from graduates, the importance of well-structured internships, mentorship programmes, and stronger connections between students and real business processes.
The CROSS-REIS project team presented how the themes of regenerative economy, circular economy, biodiversity, and sustainable finance can be integrated into higher education. The audience was introduced to proposals for new undergraduate courses and the concept of a future master’s programme developed through insights gained from CROSS-REIS mobility, training, and collaboration with international partners.
Participants expressed strong support for curriculum modernisation and welcomed the Faculty’s initiative to open a structured dialogue. Initial findings from the post-event survey also reflected high levels of satisfaction with the event’s organisation and its relevance for companies and institutions. Respondents emphasised the importance of strengthening innovation-oriented skills, interdisciplinary approaches, and cooperation between education, local community, and industry. CROSS-REIS will contribute to the continuing consultations by facilitating knowledge exchange, expertise from partner institutions, and opportunities for integrating green and regenerative competencies into future study programmes.
The project team thanks all participants for their valuable contributions and looks forward to continued collaboration in shaping educational programmes that support sustainable regional development.