The Albanian government will continue its unconditional work to support albanians living in the Presheva Valley and everywhere in the region. Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, launched today the initiative “For Albanians in the region”, which begins with educational opportunities in Albania, for young people in the Presheva Valley,
Following the meeting with representatives of the National Albanian Council of the Presheva Valley, rectors of 5 universities in Albania, representatives of 5 respective municipalities, Minister Hasani affirmed that has been agreed upon the provision of 30 study scholarships and free accommodation for each student from the Presheva Valley by the universities and municipalities of Tirana, Gjirokastra, Vlora, Shkodra, and Elbasan.
“It is no coincidence that Albania has chosen education as the main focus of support for the Presheva Valley. We believe that the efforts to strengthen and revitalize the political, economic, cultural, and social aspects of this community of our compatriots, who are facing a challenging situation, begin primarily with education, and they deserve our full support” said Minister Hasani.
The Foreign Service of the Republic of Albania has done a good job in coordinating cooperation between the Union of Albanian Businessmen and the Humanitarian Fund of the Presheva Valley with the Tirana Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Albanian Agribusiness Council.
Meanwhile, ways to provide support for specializations in the field of medicine and medical practices near state or private hospitals in Albania, as well as opportunities for cooperation in the field of culture and media, are being considered with great priority.
In addition to these initiatives, objectives will be further materialized with other projects to assist the Albanian community.
“Firstly, to combat the passivation of addresses, which undoubtedly concerns us greatly. Secondly, for the recognition of diplomas and the deepening of cultural, economic, and trade exchanges, because we believe this will contribute to affirming the rights of Albanians in the Presheva Valley; strengthening cooperation with the Albanian factor, everywhere in the region. Ensuring the rights of all Albanians and strengthening their political, social, and economic status are our work priorities,” emphasized the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
“I see that a national strategy is being developed for the Albanians of the Presheva Valley by the Albanian state, and through this strategy, we will have much easier to preserve our national substance in the Presheva Valley. This initiative is not only support for students in the Presheva Valley but direct support for Albanian families in the Valley,” said the Chairman of the National Albanian Council of the Presheva Valley, Nevzad Luftiu.
While the Rector of the University of Gjirokastra, Bektash Mema, added: “The Presheva Valley needs professionals, especially in the field of teaching, nursing, but also other professions. We believe that next year, our University, will provides not only exemption from tuition fees or free accommodation, but also additional policies for them.”
The scholarships for students from the Presheva Valley in each of the 5 universities, their accommodation by the respective municipalities, and employment during the summer months in some cities will start from the academic year 2024-2025. Meanwhile, the first 3 students from the Presheva Valley have started their studies at the University of Gjirokastra.