Intercultural Media and Culture in Context: An Expert Guest Lecture

In line with this pedagogical approach, Eileen Küpper hosted a virtual guest lecture on 15.01.2026, by Prof. Asst. Dr. Remzie Shahini-Hoxhaj, Vice Dean for Projects and Infrastructure at the Faculty of Philology, University of Prishtina. Her talk, “The Media Landscape in Kosovo,” offered students in the Master’s program Digital Communication and Media Innovation in the Department of Engineering and Communication an in-depth case study of journalism in one of Europe’s youngest democracies.

Drawing on empirical research and institutional experience, Dr. Shahini-Hoxhaj outlined the tensions shaping journalism in Kosovo, including rapid digitalization, low levels of media literacy, and increasing threats to journalist safety. The discussion highlighted how media practices are influenced by collective memory, political transition, and uneven power relations—factors that strongly affect how journalism is produced, interpreted, and trusted. At the same time, the lecture highlighted opportunities for innovation within Kosovo’s media sector, driven by a young population and growing digital infrastructures.

The virtual format of the guest lecture reflects the program’s commitment to international exchange and cross-cultural learning. By integrating expert voices into the curriculum, the course “Media & Culture” connects theoretical frameworks with lived media realities and encourages students to reflect on how global media challenges—such as press freedom, digital platforms, and sustainability—are experienced differently depending on social context and cultural expectations.

Eileen Küpper stated “ by integrating international expert perspectives into the curriculum, the course “Media & Culture” supports the development of critical media literacy, intercultural sensitivity, and reflexive analytical skills essential for working in international and culturally diverse media environments”.