Experts call for revisions to higher education law a decade after reform
A decade after Albania’s higher education reform was introduced in 2015, both local and international experts, including leaders from public and private universities contracted by the Ministry of Education, have proposed legal changes to the framework governing the sector.
Why is this important: The 2015 reform was one of the most debated policies in Albania, sparking intense discussions among politicians and academics alike. However, ten years later, university faculties widely agree that institutional autonomy has increased. Despite this, a newly drafted document, Higher Education Strategy 2030, highlights the need for legislative amendments to address emerging challenges and align the education system with modern demands.
Context: The proposed changes aim to introduce hybrid learning models that combine in-person and online instruction, performance-based university funding, and interdisciplinary programs that better respond to labor market needs.
Prime Minister Edi Rama, present at the strategy presentation, endorsed the idea of reviewing the law, emphasizing that enough time has passed to assess the successes and shortcomings of the existing framework.
“The time has come to revisit the legal framework, taking into account what we have learned from experience, the developments around us, and the alliances our universities have built. I am particularly proud that Albania has been at the forefront of integrating non-EU universities into the European University Alliance, a step that was solidified at the EU summit held here in Tirana.”
Rama also underscored the government’s financial support for universities so far but warned that the next major challenge is enhancing the quality of academic staff.
“The reality is that there is not enough effort being made to improve the quality of academic staff. While improving student outcomes is critical, this can only happen if universities focus on the professional growth and standards of their educators.”
Technology in higher education: The Prime Minister also urged universities to invest in technology and artificial intelligence, stressing that these fields are becoming essential components of modern education. The government expects institutions to incorporate AI-driven learning methodologies and ensure that students are equipped with the digital skills necessary for the future job market.
With the government signaling readiness for legal changes, the upcoming months will likely see a major policy shift in Albania’s higher education landscape, aligning it more closely with European and global standards.
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