Tirana, July 21 — Today, was presented the Accreditation Board Report of Higher Education Institutions, titled “Achievements and Challenges Toward University 4.0,”. In attendance were Prime Minister Edi Rama; Minister of Education and Sports Ogerta Manastirliu; members of the Accreditation Board; and rectors of public and private universities.
In her remarks, Minister Manastirliu emphasized the importance of the accreditation process for higher education institutions. She stressed that the Ministry of Education and Sports aims to improve the quality of higher education institutions and study programs directly linked to the labor market in cooperation with universities.
Manastirliu highlighted the achievements so far, stating:
“Over the past few years, we have increased funding for higher education institutions by 40%. We have multiplied the funds for scientific research in our universities fivefold through programs that expand each year to improve the quality of higher education and scientific research, as well as strengthen ties with industry and business.” “This remains a key focus of our work, particularly with regard to new study programs and the country’s strategic development priorities.”
In reference to recent developments and the new European standards for universities in the context of advancing toward “University 4.0,” Minister Manastirliu said:
“Economy 4.0 requires Skills 4.0. This means building not just physical campuses, but also online campuses in collaboration with universities worldwide. We must go beyond the walls of our own universities. This allows us to concentrate on technology, innovation, scientific research, and open science—an approach that is steadily progressing. Today, more than ever, we are fostering innovation within higher education institutions and developing study programs so that our degrees are not limited to the traditional four-year format. University 4.0 requires universities to support lifelong learning. Therefore, the transformation of our universities must begin with the lessons we have learned in recent years, the implementation of the higher education law, and the use of new instruments and institutions, such as the Accreditation Board.”
The Accreditation Board’s report analyzed Albania’s higher education system, highlighting key developments and challenges in the sector. These include changes in student enrollment, curriculum quality, academic staff qualifications, scientific research, and links to the labor market.