BACKGROUND: Kosova, the poorest country in Europe, is an example of the challenges posed by higher education in the developing world. The last 10 years have represented a period of significant reform within both the health care and education systems in Kosova. AIM: This article provides an overview of all levels of the higher medical education in Kosova, with particular emphasis on main issues and challenges. METHODS: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were collected through review of medical curriculum, student selection, licensure, continuing medical education (CME) and interviews with stakeholders in Medical School and Ministry of Health. RESULTS: Medical education in Kosova is categorised in three levels: undergraduate, postgraduate and CME. Kosova has a short tradition of medical education and has had a turbulent history in higher education during the last two decades. Starting in the academic year 2001/2002, the University of Prishtina adopted the Bologna system, although officially Kosova is not yet a member of Bologna Process. CONCLUSION: Quality assurance and quality control measures are considered core elements in future modernisation of medical education in Kosova. Bologna Declaration provides an opportunity for improvement of current weaknesses in medical education system.
BACKGROUND: Kosova, the poorest country in Europe, is an example of the challenges posed by higher education in the developing world. The last 10 years have represented a period of significant reform within both the health care and education systems in Kosova. AIM: This article provides an overview of all levels of the higher medical education in Kosova, with particular emphasis on main issues and challenges. METHODS: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were collected through review of medical curriculum, student selection, licensure, continuing medical education (CME) and interviews with stakeholders in Medical School and Ministry of Health. RESULTS: Medical education in Kosova is categorised in three levels: undergraduate, postgraduate and CME. Kosova has a short tradition of medical education and has had a turbulent history in higher education during the last two decades. Starting in the academic year 2001/2002, the University of Prishtina adopted the Bologna system, although officially Kosova is not yet a member of Bologna Process. CONCLUSION: Quality assurance and quality control measures are considered core elements in future modernisation of medical education in Kosova. Bologna Declaration provides an opportunity for improvement of current weaknesses in medical education system.