Today, the Agricultural University of Tirana (UBT) presented its new academic offer, which is aligned with the programs of BOKU (University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences) in Vienna, marking the start of a transformative process at UBT in line with the highest European standards.
Prime Minister Edi Rama, Minister of Education and Sports Ogerta Manastirliu, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Anila Denaj, UBT Rector Fatbardh Sallaku, high school graduates, professors, and parents attended the event.
UBT is launching nine new programs this academic year, made possible through an in-depth analysis and close collaboration with BOKU, one of Europe’s most prestigious life sciences universities.
In her speech, Minister of Education and Sports Ogerta Manastirliu stated that this marks the first phase of UBT’s reform. This phase includes restructuring the academic offerings, reorganizing programs, and expanding the university’s research and teaching capacities.
“For a year, UBT and BOKU have worked closely to fundamentally transform the academic offerings. Today, UBT presents nine new programs that align with BOKU’s standards. BOKU is a leading European university in life sciences,” said Manastirliu.
She emphasized that, starting this academic year, these programs will be taught in collaboration with BOKU professors and invited high school graduates to choose UBT.
“BOKU professors will be directly involved in the academic process at UBT from this year onward. Students will also benefit from mobility between the two universities, including the opportunity to pursue a cycle of studies in Vienna. At UBT, you will find not only a standardized curriculum and modern laboratories but also a real student campus. What will you gain in the end? A diploma that will serve as your European academic and professional passport. That’s why high school graduates should choose UBT,” said Manastirliu, who also highlighted the university’s expansion of capacities and investments in scientific research.
The new bachelor’s programs offered by UBT for the upcoming academic year include: Business Management, Economics, Information Technology in Agriculture and the Environment, Agricultural Sciences and Food Safety, Environmental and Water Engineering, Interior Design and Wood Engineering, Forestry Engineering, and Food and Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology.
UBT is poised to become a center of excellence in education and scientific research, aiming to attract Albanian and international students alike. Supported by the Ministry of Education and the Albanian government, this reform serves as a model for modernizing public higher education in Albania.