The University of Tetova today marked one of the most important dates in its history – February 17th, the day when the first lectures were held at this higher education institution in 1995.
The commemorative activities began with a tribute at the bust of the martyr of Albanian education, Abdylselam Emini, to honor his sacrifice for education in the Albanian language. Afterwards, the university leaders visited the grave of the founder and first Rector of the University of Tetova, Prof. Dr. Fadil Sulejmani, appreciating his vital contribution to the establishment and development of this university. They then visited the historical museum in the village of Poroj, where the first lectures took place in the academic year 1994/95.
In the solemn ceremony held at the rectorate, the Rector of the University of Tetova, Prof. Dr. Jusuf Zejneli, stated that the University of Tetova was built on the ideals of freedom and equality, becoming a powerful center of knowledge, culture, and social development.
“This university is not just an educational institution, but also a symbol of our resilience and will to preserve and develop our language, culture, and national identity. It was the result of the continuous efforts of intellectuals, professors, and students who did not surrender to the challenges and obstacles, but continued their path with the belief that the bright future of our nation would come through knowledge and education. With great merit, we respectfully and gratefully mention the founder and first historic Rector, Prof. Dr. Fadil Sulejmani, who, with his vision and courage, was the inspiration and guide of this great cause. Through his tireless dedication, he transformed the University of Tetova into a tangible reality, paving the way for future generations to pursue higher education in the Albanian language,” said among other things, the Rector of the University of Tetova, Prof. Dr. Jusuf Zejneli.
The Dean of the Faculty of Philology, Prof. Dr. Berton Sulejmani, in his speech emphasized the importance of this date as a symbol of resistance and dedication to education in the Albanian language, praising all those who contributed to the establishment of the University of Tetova. “Today, we have gathered not only to commemorate an event but a vision that became a reality, a journey that challenged time, and a mission that survived to enlighten future generations. Education is not merely an endeavor for knowledge, but a cornerstone of freedom, progress, and national dignity. The University of Tetova is not just an academic institution; it is an unwavering testament to a people who never gave up on the right to learn and to dream. Thirty years ago, it was born out of a historical necessity, built on the sacrifices of brave individuals, and survived as a symbol of resistance and hope. All universities in the world have a history, but few have a history of such challenges and triumphs as this one. In every stone of this institution are carved the efforts of those who did not surrender, those who believed that knowledge knows no boundaries. This is a story that speaks not only of the past but also guides us toward the future”, said among other things, the Dean of the Faculty of Philology, Prof. Dr. Berton Sulejmani.
For the contribution made during very difficult times, the University of Tetova honored the six first deans of the University of Tetova with plaques of appreciation: Prof. Dr. Abdulla Aliu – the first dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Dr. Mixhait Reçi – the first dean of the Faculty of Economics, Prof. Dr. Hisen Reçi – the first dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Prof. Dr. Rahmi Tuda – the first dean of the Faculty of Philology, Prof. Dr. Ismail Hoxha – the first dean of the Faculty of Arts, and Prof. Dr. Masar Kodra – the first dean of the Faculty of Philosophy.
Additionally, plaques were awarded to the host of the house where the founding act of the University of Tetova was signed, the late Haxhi Bari Ganiu, and the then Imam of the Poroj village mosque, the late Elmaz Qamili.
Since its founding, the University of Tetova has been an important center of knowledge and culture for Albanians in the region, developing into a modern institution that continues to provide quality education for new generations. The event concluded with an artistic performance by Florentina Abazi and Abdulla Xhaferi.
