A five-day training visit provided Prof. Miloš Knežević from the University of Montenegro with hands-on laboratory experience, expert lectures on sustainable construction and energy efficiency, and networking opportunities within the Horizon Europe and EIT innovation ecosystem.
From 15 to 19 June 2026, a five-day training visit was held at the University of Zagreb Faculty of Civil Engineering for Prof. Miloš Knežević from the University of Montenegro. The programme combined laboratory activities, expert lectures, interactive discussions and networking with representatives from academia, industry and the innovation ecosystem. Prof. Miloš Knežević took part in the training visit, actively engaging in all programme activities and professional discussions.
The first day included a visit to the Laboratory of Materials, where Prof. Ivan Gabrijel introduced Prof. Miloš Knežević to modern laboratory equipment, material testing methods and standard laboratory procedures. The visit provided valuable insight into the role of experimental research in assessing the performance and durability of construction materials.
The second and third days were dedicated to the seminar “Energy Efficiency and Sustainability”, delivered by professors from the Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Zagreb. Prof. Ivana Banjad Pečur opened the seminar with an overview of current developments in sustainable construction, while Prof. Bojan Milovanović presented key aspects of energy efficiency, focusing on thermal bridges, air permeability and the impact of construction defects on building performance. Prof. Marijana Serdar introduced the principles of Life Cycle Assessment and its growing importance in construction practice, Prof. Ana Baričević discussed condition assessment, material selection and repair methods, and Prof. Nina Štirmer highlighted the principles of sustainable construction and innovative building solutions.
On the fourth day, Prof. Miloš Knežević attended the event “EIT and Industry in Horizon Europe” at the National and University Library in Zagreb. Through keynote presentations, success stories, panel discussions and networking sessions, participants gained valuable insight into Horizon Europe funding opportunities, EIT initiatives and successful examples of collaboration between industry, research organisations and innovation stakeholders.
The final day was dedicated to evaluating the training programme, exchanging experiences and discussing opportunities for future cooperation. The visit effectively strengthened knowledge of sustainable construction, energy-efficient building design, advanced material assessment and European research and innovation initiatives, while fostering international collaboration and the exchange of best practices.
