International Balkan University (IBU), a rising star in higher education across the region, proudly inaugurated its cutting-edge Architecture and Design Studios with an official opening ceremony held at the university’s main campus. The event signified a monumental leap forward for IBU’s Department of Architecture and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and experiential learning.

The celebration brought together students, academic staff, leading professionals, and institutional representatives, all united in witnessing a defining moment in the evolution of design education at IBU.

The program commenced with a warm welcome and an introductory speech outlining the department’s ambitious vision and goals. A highlight of the event was the engaging panel discussion titled "From Studio to Site: Merging Design Education with Real-World Practice," where prominent voices from academia, public institutions, and the architectural industry exchanged insights on bridging the gap between theory and practice.

IBU Rector, Prof. Dr. Lutfi Sunar, and Head of the Department of Architecture, Asst. Prof. Dr. Marija Miloshevska Janakieska, delivered inspiring opening remarks. In his speech, Rector Sunar emphasized the vital importance of dedicated, hands-on learning spaces within the university, underscoring how such environments empower students to translate knowledge into practice.

He proudly outlined how nearly every faculty at IBU is equipped with tailored practical facilities—such as Studio Balkan for Communications, the Medical Simulation Center for health sciences, the Balkan Information Technology Loft for Computer Engineering, fully equipped laboratories and clinics for medical and dental studies, and even a functioning Courtroom for Legal Studies.

In a moment of forward-looking vision, Rector Sunar announced exciting future plans: "IBU intends to launch a dedicated company that will provide architectural and design services to the broader market—an initiative that promises to extend student engagement beyond the classroom and into the professional world."

The panel discussion was skillfully moderated by Asst. Dr. Arbresha Ibrahimi of the Department of Architecture at IBU’s Faculty of Engineering (FENG). Esteemed panelists included:

- Ms. Veselinka Gerasimova-Petrovska, Head of the Department of Architects, Chamber of Certified Architects and Certified Engineers of North Macedonia

- Ms. Tankica Hristova, Head of the Sector for Urbanism, Municipality of Centar, Skopje

- Dr. Mimoza Klekoska, Associate Professor

- Ms. Jordanka Sazdovska, Architect at ATTIKA Architects

Their rich discussions offered a multi-faceted view on the importance of collaborative design education and real-world application—highlighting innovation, sustainability, and urban development.

The event concluded with a guided tour of the newly opened studios, where guests explored an impressive exhibition of student work. From intricate models to detailed technical drawings, the displays reflected the creativity, discipline, and passion of IBU’s emerging architects.

With the launch of these high-caliber facilities, IBU once again proves its position as a forward-thinking institution, nurturing talent, inspiring innovation, and shaping the future of design education in the Balkans and beyond.