The Ministry of Education and Albanian-American Development Foundation (AADF) signed an agreement for scientific research projects.
The Cooperation Agreement between the Ministry of Education and the Albanian-American Development Foundation (AADF) was signed for the co-financing of the READ project, which supports scientific research projects in higher education institutions in Albania and involves the engagement of Albanian academics from the diaspora.
Ogerta Manastirliu, the Minister of Education and Sports stated that through this collaboration, we are building an important bridge between the diaspora academics and Albanian universities, which not only brings international experience but also helps strengthen Albania’s research capacities.
“Today, we have 130 scientific research and infrastructure projects funded by the Albanian government through National Information Society Agency. There are five programs financed through this agency, which include scientific research, research projects, and research infrastructure. These are joint programs with European countries such as Austria and Italy. We are expanding them to other countries, enabling us to develop capacities through the expertise of prestigious universities and their academics. For scientific research only, we have increased the funding by 56% compared to the previous year, specifically for scientific research. More than 5 million euros have been allocated for the projects we have funded this year,” said Minister Ogerta Manastirliu.
The Albanian-American Development Foundation (AADF) will finance and manage the implementation of the READ Program, covering the costs for diaspora academics and monitoring the implemented projects.
The first call for projects funded by the READ program opens today, inviting academics to submit their proposals by December 16 of this year and to participate in this important initiative for the development of scientific research in Albania.
Martin Mata, co-director of AADF, announced another collaborative project in the field of scientific research. “We have a long history of collaboration, and AADF has provided over 60 million dollars in support for educational projects. When there is the right foundation, approach, and partnership with the Ministry of Education, as in this case, the results are evident and measurable. We are preparing a new project, and if approved, by mid-October the foundation for a new initiative will be set, which will elevate scientific research in universities to an even higher level.”
The Ministry of Education and Sports, through National Agency for Scientific Research and Innovation, will co-finance the selected projects and ensure timely transfer of funds for academics in Albania. Both institutions will collaborate in the evaluation and selection of projects, ensuring full transparency at every stage.
Launched in 2021, the READ program is a platform that connects Albanian diaspora researchers with Albanian universities, aiming at scientific research, PhD supervision, curriculum development, and co-teaching. The agreement signed today enhances the commitment of both institutions to co-finance and support joint research projects.