Sharing Lessons from Kosovo's Post-War Mental Health Experiences
Kosovo
Number of recipients
The scholar will conduct research on the post-war effects on the mental wellbeing of Kosovan citizens. The primary objective is to identify both short and long- term consequences of the war, exploring potential lessons learned and the effectiveness of interventions. These insights are intended to be shared with other countries going through similar experiences, such as Ukraine. The scholar is expected to disseminate these findings and experiences to students and researchers at the University of Pristina, Department of Psychology, through presentations and/or seminars as well as to other academics through peer-reviewed publications. Collaboratively with the host institution, the scholar may establish connections and activities with research collaborators in Ukraine.
This investigation aims to provide guidance on strengthening mental health support in post-war scenarios. The collaboration between the scholar and researchers from the host institution will play a crucial role in generating new evidence relevant to improving the mental health of citizens in Kosovo and similar contexts. It will contribute to building the capacity of Kosovan institutions to engage in international collaboration, fostering the implementation of evidence-based practices. Additionally, the research will facilitate partnership between the University of Pristina and selected Ukrainian universities, creating a platform for sharing experiences, knowledge and best practices.
University of Prishtina, Department of Psychology, Prishtina, Kosovo (https://psikolo.uni-pr.edu)
The award length is 6-9 months. Months for the visit from August 2025 to May 2026.
Host university will offer logistical assistance in finding housing or school for dependent children of the U.S. Fulbright Scholar.
All applicants must meet the Program eligibility requirements (click to review the requirements).
Award is hosted by: University of Prishtina, Department of Psychology, Prishtina, Kosovo (https://psikolo.uni-pr.edu)
Contact information for the Point of Contact at the host institution for this Award: Associate Professor Zamira Hyseni, departamenti.psikologjise@uni-pr.edu zamira.hyseni@uni-pr.edu
Grant benefits include a monthly maintenance allowance, comprised of a base stipend and living and housing allowances. The base stipend varies based on a scholar's current academic rank (or professional equivalent). Living and housing allowances vary based on the city of placement, and the number of accompanying dependents.
$4,250
$1,500 books and educational materials allowance for teaching and teaching/research grants; should be donated to the host institution (or other entity) upon grantee's departure.
Additional living and housing allowance is provided for grantees with one accompanying dependent or two or more accompanying dependents. These amounts range from $150/month to $300/month. In addition, travel allowances are provided for up to two dependents. These amounts range from $2,750 to $5,500.
Reimbursement for dependent education expenses may be available on a limited basis, depending on funding availability and grant duration. Grantees should confirm with IIE that proposed expenses meet eligibility criteria; however, availability of funds may not be known until the end of the academic year.
Kosovo
Kosovo is the youngest European country, in the heart of the Balkans. With 70 percent of the population under 35, it is young and vibrant. Pristina, the capital city, officially has around 200,000 inhabitants, but that number swells during the business day to nearly 500,000. It is very easy to navigate, with a strong café culture, many great restaurants, and a large international community. Every other major town is within 90 minutes of Pristina, including Prizren (the cultural capital of Kosovo), Peja and Gjakova (hubs for outdoor enthusiasts). More information on Kosovo and tourism can be found here and here.
A culturally Muslim country, but very liberal in practice, Kosovo is widely considered to be one of the most pro-American countries in the world, with a U.S. favorability rating of more than 95 percent of the population. The ongoing dispute over Kosovo's independence from Serbia creates a unique dynamic, especially with the Kosovo-Serb minority population.
Since Kosovo declared its independence in February 2008, its higher-education system has slowly been making progress towards a more Western-oriented approach, based on the Bologna System. U.S. Fulbright Scholars have significantly helped to expand the knowledge of students and professors who might otherwise not have the opportunity to study or travel abroad.
Higher education in Kosovo consists of eight state universities and one college: the University of Pristina "Hasan Prishtina” is Kosovo's largest university; the University of Prizren "Ukshin Hoti”; the University of Gjakova “Fehmi Agani”; the University of Gjilan "Kadri Zeka"; the University of Mitrovica "Isa Boletini"; the University of Peja "Haxhi Zeka"; and the University of Applied Sciences (UASF) in Ferizaj, Faculty of Islamic Studies and the International Business College Mitrovica (for more information , please check this link. There are 11 private institutions of higher education (for more information, please check this link. The academic calendar consists of two semesters (October-January and February-May). Exams are generally offered at the end of each semester.
The Fulbright Program in Kosovo is 14 years old, but undergoing a significant expansion thanks to a joint investment of funds by the Government of Kosovo and the United States. Significant opportunities remain to make a difference in the state of education in the country. Knowledge of the Albanian language is beneficial, but not a requirement.
Families are welcome and opportunities for K-12 education are available. You may reach out to us, and we will provide you with a list of K-12 schools taught in English.
Medical facilities in Kosovo consist of the government-sponsored University Clinical Center and private medical clinics. Medical facilities outside Pristina have limited capabilities. For more information, please see this link.
Public transportation is available. Taxis are generally an inexpensive, safe, and a reliable means of transportation.
U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter Kosovo and may be asked to provide documentation stating the purpose of their visit. No visa is required for trips of up to 90 days. For work, study, or visits longer than 90 days, you must apply for a temporary residence permit at Pristina’s Directorate for Migration and Foreigners. To apply for a temporary residence permit, you will need to provide proof of health insurance and an official police background check report issued in the United States prior to travel. See our Criminal Records checks page on our website. The U.S. Embassy cannot assist you in obtaining background checks, certificates of conduct, or fingerprints. For all public information related to entry, exit, and visa requirements available to U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Kosovo, see this link.
Prospective applicants may contact the U.S. Embassy directly with questions or for clarification. The primary point of contact for the Fulbright Program is Remzije Potoku, Higher Education Specialist, at PotokuRK@state.gov.