A bridge of ideas: Kosovo students dive into research at Luxembourg’s SnT

Three students from Kosovo are currently conducting their master’s thesis and research in Luxembourg, focusing on high-demand fields such as cybersecurity and internet safety. Their work is taking place at the renowned Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability, and Trust (SnT). This opportunity was made possible through a newly established academic partnership between the University of Luxembourg and the University of Prishtina, which has opened new pathways for advanced research and academic exchange between the two countries.

In addition to student placements, the agreement also includes staff exchanges, specialised training programs, and pathways to PhD studies – all within the framework of the Skills for sustainable jobs in Kosovo project, funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by LuxDev.

This initiative represents a major step forward in strengthening Kosovo’s research capacity while contributing to long-term academic and economic development.

We spoke with the students currently in Luxembourg, who shared their firsthand experiences with us.

My research project at SnT is about bugged code. I am in trux-team (trustworthy software) at SnT and I'm working on a research project to see if one Artificial Intelligence (AI) code can help another AI to fix coding mistakes. The idea is to use powerful language models to suggest fixes for broken code, and then test if these suggestions can help smaller, open-source AI models learn to repair code better. This research is part of a larger goal to make software more secure and reliable.

The whole experience here in Luxembourg was refreshingly down-to-earth. Despite being a prestigious program, it fosters a modest and collaborative environment where everyone – from professors to PhD mentors – treats you as a peer and a friend, not a subordinate.

Luxembourg itself reflects this spirit. What truly sets the fellowship apart is the freedom it offers. Whether I’m working from a café, a co-working space, or at home, I can dive into my research whenever inspiration strikes. With cloud-based tools and flexible guidance, there’s no rigid “9-to-5” – just meaningful, self-directed work.

My study experience in Luxembourg has been deeply enriching, thanks to the opportunity provided by LuxDev.

The program is thoughtfully structured, with every detail carefully planned – from engaging lectures to personalised mentorship. The professors are not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely approachable, always willing to offer guidance and support.

At SnT I am researching Lightweight Post-Quantum Cryptography for IoT Blockchain applications. The research focuses on finding the best lightweight post-quantum cryptographic signature and using it to sign or verify blockchain transactions. The goal is to test whether an IoT device can use this signature method to act as a signer or verifier, helping improve the security and integrity of the data it handles on the blockchain.

Beyond the academic setting, I’ve appreciated the peaceful green surroundings and the vibrant multicultural atmosphere. It’s inspiring to study in a place that truly values innovation, inclusion, and academic excellence.

Participating in LuxDev’s academic fellowship in Luxembourg has been a lifetime experience. From the start, every logistical detail – flights, accommodation, and beyond – was arranged with impressive precision by LuxDev, allowing us to focus fully on the experience ahead.

My research focuses on the FinTech industry, where I'm designing a secure online system for identity verification (Know-Your-Costumer) that keeps personal data safely stored on the user's device. The system confirms a person's identity with high accuracy without sharing any data online, ensuring the users stay in control of their sensitive information while businesses can still verify their identity securely.

The program brings together highly knowledgeable professors, experienced academics, and industry experts who provide targeted, meaningful mentorship. They’re supported by a collaborative group of PhD students who are always eager to share their insights and support.

Beyond the research, student-led social activities – ranging from gaming tournaments to outdoor events – have made my time here socially enriching and culturally immersive.

Academically, the fellowship has pushed me to think beyond theory. Working on projects that combine academic depth with real-world relevance has expanded my perspective on research – not just how to develop ideas conceptually, but how to apply them practically and with impact.

The Skills for sustainable jobs in Kosovo project is funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, and by LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency. The project aims to contribute to sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation, inclusiveness, and social development in a greener Kosovo.