Today, Anila Denaj, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, attended the Agricultural University of Tirana’s (UBT) promotional event, where they presented their new academic program modeled after the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences in Vienna (BOKU). The new programs will begin in September of this year.
This project is a significant step in modernizing and advancing higher education in Albania, establishing UBT as a university that meets European standards.
Also in attendance were Prime Minister Edi Rama; Minister of Education and Sports Ogerta Manastirliu; UBT Rector Fatbardh Sallaku; and former BOKU Rector, Professor Hubert Hasenauer.
In her speech, Minister Denaj described this moment as a “dream realized” thanks to Prime Minister Edi Rama’s commitment and the excellent cooperation of Professor Hasenauer and the UBT team.
She emphasized that the UBT is now operating as BOKU University in Tirana and is offering nine academic programs that are fully aligned with the BOKU system.
These programs cover key areas such as business management, economic development, agronomy, plant protection, and veterinary medicine, among others closely linked to rural development and food security.
“This alignment raises the level of teaching and strengthens scientific research—an essential need for developing agriculture and the Albanian economy,” said Minister Denaj. Students who enroll in these programs will be the first to graduate with an aligned diploma and will benefit from an internationally recognized academic and research experience,” said Minister Denaj.
She emphasized that this development is a significant step toward Albania’s integration into the European Union by 2030. The goal is to transform UBT into a premier regional university that offers opportunities for joint research with lecturers and students from around the globe.
In this context, Ms. Denaj announced plans to establish a Center of Excellence for Nanotechnology that will bring together researchers and students from Albania, the region, and beyond.
She also highlighted the creation of a Geo-Information Center for the Western Balkans as another important initiative that will advance scientific research in the region.
Minister Denaj thanked the academics, especially Professor Sallaku and his team, for their commitment and hard work in completing this project in one year.
She also emphasized the importance of practical cooperation in promoting employment in agriculture and rural development and providing job opportunities for students after graduation.
“We have started a real, concrete partnership to promote employment in all fields and ensure students’ integration into the public and private sectors,” the minister added.
Minister Denaj invited high school graduates to apply for European-aligned programs at UBT via the U-Albania portal starting July 29, and encouraged them to take advantage of this golden opportunity for a successful professional and academic future.
“This is your chance to contribute to Albania’s development within the European Union by 2030. Use this opportunity wisely, and let’s become the best ambassadors of knowledge and development,” she concluded.