University Campus in Gjirokastër/ Manastirliu: New study alternative with European standards

2024-07-23 13:08:00, Politikë CNA

University Campus in Gjirokastër/ Manastirliu: New study alternative with

Minister of Education, Ogerta Manastirliu

The Commission for Education examined this Tuesday the draft law for the ratification of the agreement for the opening of the Campus of the State Distance Education University of Spain in Gjirokastra.

The Minister of Education, Ogerta Manastirliu said that this institution is considered excellent in terms of the study alternative.

"It is not just about a branch of a university, but about bringing to our country an institution that is considered excellent in terms of the alternative of study. This project aims to increase the level of Higher Education in Albania and introduce a new study model, which is distance education. Through this agreement, we intend to expand the European dimension of Higher Education in our country, bringing to Albania a university of this level that will serve Albanian students, but also the region. This is the first place in the region where the Distance Studies University of Spain opens a branch", he said.

The minister emphasized that this project is an important step towards the internationalization of Albanian universities. She underlined that the agreement will bring a new academic offer, opportunities for academic advancement and employment for young Albanians.

The agreement is in full compliance with the national education strategy and the political program of the Council of Ministers, and is a proof of the commitment of the Albanian government to ensure a quality and comprehensive higher education.

"The study programs that will be offered by the UNED branch in Gjirokastër will have the same standards as those offered at other campuses in Europe and Spain. The rules and procedures for the opening, reorganization, language of study, extension of study programs, as well as other regulatory aspects, are made in accordance with this agreement, based on the internal acts of UNED. In the acts of creation of UNED, the criteria for the admission and registration of students are also provided. The institutional accreditation and validity of studies offered by UNED will be automatically recognized by the institutions of the Republic of Albania, including matriculation and recognition of diplomas," said Manastirliu.

UNED is the leading public distance education university in Spain. There are over 200,000 students per year and campuses/branches in 17 countries in the world, specifically in 75 cities, with 80 centers. UNED is a leader in the field of distance education and scientific research. Founded in 1972, UNED offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including 30 bachelor's degrees, 80 master's degrees and 20 international doctoral programs in fields as diverse as sciences, engineering, economics and business administration, political science and sociology, law, education, philology, philosophy, geography and history, and psychology.

This university has revolutionized the teaching methodology through technology, enriching the academic offer every year with new programs and degrees. One of the most popular aspects of UNED is the educational opportunity it offers students regardless of their location and age. This makes the university attractive for international students and starting from the new academic year, 2024-2025, these opportunities will be available for Albanian students as well./ CNA