Dear friends of the University,
With a sense of pride and deep gratitude, I stand before you today to celebrate this extraordinary moment in the history of our institution: the 30th anniversary of the founding of the University of Tetova.
Today we are celebrating the jubilee year of an educational institution, which was founded by the courage, will and dedication of our people, at a time when the idea of a university in the Albanian language faced great challenges and opposition.
Our university is not just a building. It is a symbol of a nation’s efforts and faith in the power of knowledge.
On this jubilee anniversary, we inevitably return to the history of the University of Tetova, whose pages are marked by sacrifices, suffering, pain, but also numerous successes.
On this anniversary, we express our deepest respect to the Historical Rector, Professor Fadil Sulejmani, whose name is synonymous with the University of Tetova.
This year we published the complete works of Professor Fadil Sulejmani, his valuable intellectual contribution to the field of Albanology, linguistics, and ethnography.
We opened the Remembrance Corner of for Professor Fadil Sulejmani, where events related to our culture have already begun to be organized.
On this anniversary, we remember with the deepest respect and honor the martyr of the University of Tetova, Abdylselam Emini.
The portraits of Professor Fadil Sulejmani and Abdylselam Emini, which are now in the Rector’s Office, are not only beautiful works of art, but also a spirit that brings to mind the entire history of our university.
On this anniversary, we express our thanks and gratitude to the signatories of the founding of the University of Tetova.
We honor all those who made valuable contributions to our university.
This year we honor the contribution of Professor Nevzat Halili, whom we proposed for the degree of Doctor Honoris Causa for his valuable activity in support of the Albanian national cause, for his contribution in the field of education, politics and public life, as well as for his permanent support for the establishment of the University of Tetova.
We express our deep gratitude to all our citizens who materially and morally supported the University of Tetova and to those who made it possible for the first lectures to be held in their homes.
We also appreciate the first-generation students, because they gave life to our university.
From our humble beginnings, we have now grown into a vibrant academic institution, which is a guiding light of intellectual and cultural development.
Our achievements, over these years, are not just numbers or rankings, but countless stories of transformation, empowerment, and success that our students, academic staff, and graduates have carried with them.
Therefore, on this anniversary, I would like to express my deep thanks and gratitude to all the students, academic staff, administrative staff, and all other employees of our University for their contribution throughout these years.
With desire and passion, with a lot of work, struggle, sacrifice and continuous effort, throughout these decades, we have served in the promotion of knowledge, scientific research and innovation.
Today, just a few days before the conclusion of the 2024/2025 winter semester and the 2024 calendar year, if we turn back and take a look at the year we leave behind, we rcall the moments that mark successes, but also the challenges we have faced together.
I want to highlight some of our most important achievements, which reflect our vision and commitment to advancing science.
During this year, we organized the 7th International Congress on Natural, Health Sciences and Technology, a platform for the advancement of applied and natural sciences, as well as the 8th International Congress on Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts, where scholars from around the world explored and shared knowledge on cultural and humanitarian diversity.
Within the framework of the congresses, new issues of scientific journals, which are published by the respective faculties, were promoted. The journals are indexed in EBSCO, CROSSREF, Google Scholar, Index Copernicus International, CEEOL, MLA International Bibliography, ERIHPLUS. All have ISI Impact Factor.
We held the 18th edition of the International Seminar on Albanology, which is dedicated primarily to Albanian studies and Albanian cultural heritage.
As a university, we are committed to promoting peacebuilding, intercultural communication and scientific dialogue in the Western Balkans and beyond. To this end, we organized the scientific conference on the topic “The Future of the Western Balkans after the Russian Aggression against Ukraine – What’s Next?”. We also promoted the translated book, “Lakes and Empires in the History of Macedonia” by the famous James Pettifer and Miranda Vickers.
We have also paid special attention to important personalities and figures from the region and the world. We can highlight the discussion with the renowned British journalist and analyst Tim Judah on the reality created after the war in Ukraine and on developments in the Western Balkans.
Distinguished guests,
During this year, we implemented several transformative projects that enriched the academic and student experience.
The Computer Science study program implemented the Digital Forensics project as support for the creation of a laboratory for students.
In the framework of the Student Stage of the University of Tetova, which was financed by the Ministry of Culture, student theatrical performances were performed in the regular repertoire of the Dramatic and Audiovisual Arts Stage of the Faculty of Arts in Tetova.
The Faculty of Food Technology and Nutrition won the project for Specialization of Human Resources Capacities for Green Transformation – Zero Waste – financed and supported by the Presidency of the Turkish Agency TIKA.
To improve the scientific infrastructure, we have managed to secure financial support for laboratory equipment for the Faculty of Food Technology, thus increasing the quality of research and teaching. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry will finance with MKD 12 million the project for the purchase of equipment for laboratory analysis for the control of quality and safety of food, environment, pharmacy and items for wide use. These analyses will be carried out in the Laboratory for the Control of Food Products, which was accredited this year according to international standards.
We are proud that, within the framework of international projects, we are partners in the Magna Charta Observatory research initiative, which aims to preserve the integrity of intellectual and scientific work in institutions and society, by building bridges of trust between universities at the local and global levels.
Meanwhile, the international training “Collaborative Online International Learning” (COIL), carried out in collaboration with the Aurora network, has brought experience and contemporary methods to our staff and students.
In the field of education and student creativity, we have successfully completed the project “Creative Students through Media Literacy”, funded by USAID-Irex.
Social and educational inclusion remains our priority. The project for the inclusion of children with special educational needs, supported by the association “Open the Windows,” is another step towards a more inclusive society and equality in education.
In the field of economic development and entrepreneurship, the project implemented by the Faculty of Economics, with the support of the Ministry of Economy, has resulted in the establishment of a center for research and development of entrepreneurship. This center aims not only to promote education for young entrepreneurs, but also to promote the economic development of hilly regions and reduce unemployment.
The University of Tetova has signed a series of memorandums and agreements this year to deepen cooperation with numerous local, regional and international institutions, with the aim of:
– promoting cooperation, mutual understanding and development in the fields of education and scientific research;
– implementing joint research projects and pilot projects;
– exchanging research staff and teachers;
– exchanging students with many regional and international universities;
– organizing joint seminars, conferences and workshops;
– exchanging scientific publications;
– short-term visits of senior staff members for consultations, lectures and project planning;
– long-term visits by research and technical staff for training, postgraduate studies or participation in joint research projects;
– participating in international programs;
– promoting contacts with prominent scientists from other academic centers in different countries of the world, to participate in large-scale international projects, as well as mutual support in planning and implementing visits to the respective countries.
This is proof that so far we have maintained and strengthened the good tradition of cooperation with all universities and various institutions in our country but also in the international arena.
On this jubilee anniversary, we also celebrate the functioning of the student dormitory; the beginning of specializations in the field of medicine; and the establishment and functioning of the employee’s union at the University of Tetova.
There are many other achievements and events, whether scientific, cultural, artistic, or sporting, that should be celebrated on this anniversary, but the list is long.
All of these projects are evidence of our commitment to contributing to the sustainable development of the university and fulfilling our vision as a higher education institution that brings positive change to society.
Ladies and gentlemen,
While we celebrate our past and present, we must also look forward with courage and ambition. The challenges of this century – rapid technological advances, environmental crises and social inequalities – demand that universities be more than centers of learning and study. Universities must be centers of innovation, sustainability and social responsibility. Universities must create as many connections with the community as possible and take into account the new demands that are emerging in the labor market. These are goals that we are achieving with dedication and a long-term strategy.
Let this anniversary be a reminder of our duty to adapt, grow, and lead in transformative times. Our vision for the future includes not only academic excellence, but also a commitment to equity and inclusion.
This historic moment would not have been possible without the unwavering support of many people.
To our students and graduates: you are the soul of this institution, the reason for our existence, and proof to our success.
To our faculty and staff: your dedication is the foundation upon which this university stands tall.
To our partners and supporters: your belief in our mission has been important and inspiring throughout our journey.
As we celebrate this 30-year milestone, let us reaffirm our commitment to the principles that have guided us thus far: knowledge, integrity, and dedication. Let us honor our past, celebrate the present, and embrace the challenges and opportunities of the future with confidence and determination.
May the University of Tetova be blessed!
Prof. Dr. Jusuf Zejneli
Rector of University of Tetova
Prof.Dr. Jusuf Zejneli
2023-2026
Prof.Dr. Kushtrim Ahmeti
2022-2023
Prof.Dr. Reshat Qahili
December 2021-May 2022
Prof.Dr. Vullnet Ameti
2012-2022
Prof.Dr. Agron Reka
2009-2012
Prof.Dr. Sadi Bexheti
2006-2009
Prof.Dr. Nexhbedin Beadini
2003-2006
Prof.Dr. Ramiz Abdyli
January-March 2003
Prof.Dr. Fadil Sulejmani
1995-2003
History of UT
The University of Tetova welcomes and is open to all the students, teachers and collaborators. It welcomes individuals who possess intellectual and moral qualities, which they can apply in an academic climate of clearly defined institutional autonomy and academic freedom, to contribute to the development of education, science and professional development at the university.
“The university has a short history but a long past”.
It was founded on December 17, 1994 as an initiative of Albanian intellectuals, various non-political affiliations and a wide spectrum of supporters of higher education from inside and outside North Macedonia.
The historical development of the university can be divided into two phases:
1994-2003 The establishment of the university
2004-2010 The institutional development; academic and physical modernization.
From an emerging physical state, the University developed and was transformed into what we can witness today- the New University Building. Thereafter, it has been confirmed as a member of the Conference of European Universities and, as a reformed institution, it is recognized as the only public higher education institution operating in the Albanian language, providing qualifications, specializations and research to all people. The University of Tetova consists of 13 faculties, 65 study programs, 115 departments and 3 research centers and institutions.
Teaching and Research Framework
The Bologna Agreement is implemented in the educational process and the university has initiated reforms in its scientific research program to bring it up to the standards of more developed countries. The results of entering into international collaboration projects such as Erasmus, DAAD, and Tempus, following European standards, has already led to and evident enhancement in academic quality.
With regard to the Bologna Agreement, the University of Tetova is currently entering a new phase of its development, implementing a standard 3+2+3 model, and a structured 4+1+3 (BA, MA, and PhD studies) model with a research focus. Applying the new European study system, UT is fulfilling its goal of improving student professional development and establishing an international harmonization of degrees.
The current academic staff comprises 273 full-time teachers and 355 part-time teachers.
Degrees from University of Tetova are now recognized as being comparable with those obtained from more established European universities; this recognition is confirmed by alumni employed or continuing postgraduate studies at various higher education institutions across the world.
Future Orientation
Looking towards the future, the University’s goal is to locate all faculties on a single campus. Physically, this will include: first, second and third cycle studies, specializations, visiting professors and other guests, canteen, sports centers, main library, computer center, and various labs.
At an operational level, the future development of the University of Tetova will involve:
- The implementation of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS);
The implementation of ECTS will be achieved through student mobility through which students will broaden their horizon and deepen their knowledge at universities signatories of the Magna Charta Universitatum.
- Incorporation into all European university forums, through which cooperation is increasing;
- Progress of scientific research against academic research, will have a positive impact on the academic achievement;
- Offering online degrees, E-learning, electronic books (including audio-books) will enable broader access and increase the quality of learning and teaching;
- Already secured, Audio-visual tools will further assist in offering distance learning lectures
- Completing and equipping academic and laboratory facilities with modern technology;
- Implementing and carrying out projects at university institutions like Institute of Ecology and Technology, The Institute of Albanian Culture, etc.
- Participating in collaborative European academic and research projects, like TEMPUS, DAAD, USAID, SORROS, NATO, BE, various embassies have, in extension from previous years, become priorities in the strategic plan of the university;
- Dispersing study programs throughout the country, in various cities, in accordance with the high school preparation programs to bring degrees closer to students.
Future Responsibility
While we take pride in the achievements of recent years, we are also accepting responsibility for future actions that need to be taken for us to match the trends of contemporary academic institutions. To achieve this, the management and academic staff of the University of Tetova are taking full responsibility for creating new values, especially in education, science and culture, which are the pillars of the prosperity of new generations.
To sum up, the University of Tetova is already headed towards developing a new effective system of higher education that will lead the university towards achieving the standards of contemporary academic institutions. By appointing and preparing professionals, and by promoting observable and measurable change both within and outside the country, the university will achieve it towards achieving its over-arching mission.
Future goals
The intention of being closer and more accessible to students has already resulted in the availability of study programs throughout the country, and, particularly, within specific cities in the Republic of North Macedonia.
With an increase in student numbers every year, the University of Tetova now has 13,000 students and, importantly in achieving our goals, the number of students from various ethnic groups is increasing. In the past, only a small number of students of non-Albanian background registered with UT. This number has already grown to over one hundred, almost 10% of the overall number of students.
The University of Tetova aims to be a University for all of the citizens of North Macedonia, without any national, religious, or other differences. In pursuit of this aim, it is now open to all students who wish to study here.
The university’s offer for prospective students is economical and inclusive. Numerous study programs with affordable fees are offered.
With an increase of 30% over the past few years, the number of students enrolled is increasing continuously compared to the number of students enrolled at other universities in the country. This is a sign that the UT is developing and heading towards European universities.
The University of Tetova is the one and only Albanian-language state university in North Macedonia. Qualified academic staff, increasing collaboration, cooperation with prestigious universities in the region and internationally and, most importantly, the emotional relationship of Albanians with the UT, their sacrifice and their contribution, have established and brought it to its current position. They now provide the major reasons why one should study at the University of Tetova.
President of the Senate | Prof. Dr. Vullnet Ameti
Rector | Prof. Dr. Jusuf Zejneli
Vice-Rector for Education Affairs | Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Neziri
Acting Vice-Rector for International Cooperation | Prof. Dr. Salajdin Salihi
Vice-Rector for Scientific Affairs | Prof. Dr. Agon Memeti
General Secretary | Adem Beadini
Prof. Dr. Fatbardha Ismaili
Prof. Dr. Sali Zhaku
Prof. Dr. Sheherzada Murati
Prof. Dr. Zeqirja Idrizi
Prof. Dr. Lulzime Kamberi
Prof. Dr. Nderim Zeqiri
Prof. Dr. Asan Idrizi
Prof. Dr. Metin Izeti
Prof. Mr. Bajramali Idrizi
Prof. Dr. Sadi Bexheti
Prof. Dr. Qenan Ferati
Prof. Dr. Milazim Kamberi
Prof. Dr. Florim Idrizi
Prof. Dr. Flamure Ibraimi Sadiku
Prof. Dr. Xhabir Abdullahu
Prof. Dr. Merije Elezi
Prof. Dr. Hazir Pollozhani
Prof. Dr. Elmi Jusufi
Prof. Dr. Naser Raimi
Prof. Dr. Faton Shabani
Asst. Prof. Dr. Besa Dogani
Asst. Prof. Dr. Arbresha Zenki Dalipi
Ladon Murseli
Besa Bexheti
Rector | Prof. Dr. Jusuf Zejneli
Vice-Rector for Education Affairs | Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Neziri
Acting Vice-Rector for International Cooperation | Prof. Dr. Salajdin Salihi
Vice-Rector for Scientific Affairs | Prof. Dr. Vullnet Ameti
General Secretary | Adem Beadini
Dean of Faculty of Philosophy | Prof. Dr. Ibish Kadriu
Dean of Faculty of Pedagogy | Prof. Dr. Lulzim Memedi
Dean of Faculty of Philology | Prof. Dr. Berton Sulejmani
Dean of Faculty of Law | Prof. Dr. Safet Emruli
Dean of Faculty of Economy | Prof. Dr. Brikend Aziri
Dean of Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics | Prof. Dr. Alit Ibraimi
Dean of Faculty of Physical Education | Prof. Dr. Shpresa Memishi
Dean of Faculty of Applied Sciences | Prof. Dr. Enis Jakupi
Dean of Faculty of Arts | Prof. Mr. Senad Abduli
Dean of Faculty of Medical Sciences | Prof. Dr. Nevzat Elezi
Dean of Faculty of Food Technology and Nutrition | Prof. Dr. Xhezair Idrizi
Dean of Faculty of Business Administration | Prof. Dr. Llokman Hebibi
Dean of Faculty of Agriculture and Biotechnology | Asst. Prof. Dr. Bardhyl Limani
Head of Student Parliament | Ladon Murseli
December 16. 2017 NIU gave honorary doctorate degree to Rector of the People Prof. Dr. Vullnet Ameti, a man who demonstrated his belief in education as a human right by helping to establish the only Albanian university in Macedonia. The rector of the University of Tetovo received his distinction during the Graduate School commencement on December 16, in the NIU Convocation Center.
“Dr. Vullnet Ameti is one of the most charitable and courageous men I have ever met,” “He is truly a man that cares about the people of his nation.” “Rector Ameti, along with other Albanian intellectuals in Macedonia, led the protests in front of the rifle barrels of the Macedonian gendarmerie” “He has taught thousands of students and continues to be a rector of the people,” Preston said. “He is never afraid to get his hands dirty. I have witnessed him on many occasions lay bricks for new buildings on campus, cut bushes and trees and feed the homeless.”
~ Anthony Preston, director of Global Programs in the NIU College of Business
“Rector Ameti always has impressed me with his bravery in the face of resistance and his determination to provide higher education to ethnic Albanians living in Macedonia. What he has done – what he continues to do – is remarkable, inspirational and humbling,” Freeman said. “I always look forward to our visits, as well as our conversations about access to education, and it will be my great privilege to present him with this honorary degree” “Under Professor Dr. Ameti’s leadership, UT has become a world-class institution that continues to be committed to educational access and equity, its founding vision. The story of UT is really a story of community and courage, and we’re excited to tell that story here at the College of Education’s Blackwell Museum” “Dr. Ameti has been wonderfully supportive of our efforts to pull the exhibition together, and that’s just one example of the many things he’s done to nurture the partnership between NIU and UT” “What’s so admirable is that he has established a forward-looking vision for UT’s future that remains firmly committed to the social justice issues that have animated its past. That’s inspiring.”
~ Patrick Roberts,associate professor in the College of Education’s Department of Leadership, Educational Psychology and Foundations
The Rector of the University of TetovaProf. Dr. Vullnet Ameti, was elected President of the Balkan Universities Association (BUA)
In 2014, Prof. Dr. Vullnet Ameti, the Rector of the University of Tetova was elected President of the Balkan Universities Association, marking a significant milestone in the university’s history. This prestigious appointment not only highlights Prof. Dr. Ameti’s leadership but also serves as an international recognition of the academic progress and growing reputation of the University of Tetova. The election is a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering regional collaboration and advancing higher education in the Balkans. It represents an honor that reflects the institution’s ongoing efforts to excel in education and research on a global scale.
This recognition highlights UT’s role as a key contributor to regional academic development and its commitment to fostering partnerships that transcend national boundaries, further elevating its standing on the global academic stage.
In 2012 as a gesture of appreciation and recognition, renowned artist and designer of the 100th anniversary of Albania’s Independence Mr. Zeni Ballazhi presented a plaque to Rector Vullnet Ameti during his visit to the University of Tetova. This award highlights University of Tetova significant contributions to education, science and cultural heritage.Rector Ameti expressed his gratitude for this honor, reaffirming the university’s commitment to academic excellence and its role in promoting cultural values.
This honor holds special significance, as Prof. Dr. Ameti has played a key role in spreading the values of peace and international cooperation through his academic and scientific work. The title of “Ambassador of Peace” reflects his tireless commitment to fostering ties between educational institutions and diverse societies, thereby promoting a culture of peace and global cooperation.
On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Albania’s Independence, the Forum for Image and Media organized a special ceremony at the Opera and Ballet Hall in Tirana, where awards were presented for the 10th edition to individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions in various fields. During this jubilee event, Prof. Dr. Vullnet Ameti had the honor and privilege to receive an award for contribution to the fields of education, science, and culture.
THE MUSEUM OF THE UNIVERSITY OF TETOVA
In Poroj, a village outside of Tetovo, there is a museum that documents the sobering history of the founding of the University of Tetovo – back in 1994.
Born out of the determination to found a university teaching in the Albanian language, members of the community came together to form this university in Tetovo. Members of the community wanted to establish a university in Tetovo where students could learn in the Albanian language. Without support from the state, the community came together – with volunteer professors, meeting in makeshift classrooms in peoples’ houses. This effort was met with resistance, however, as you can see in the newspaper articles and exhibits in the museum. In one of the photos, you can see the villagers coming out on to the streets to protect the students, after about 300 troops were sent to address the situation.
In fact, foundation of the museum of the University of Tetova, is one of the most important moments during the lifetime period of this institution as far as it represents the connect between the past and the future.
Actually, the museum of the University of Tetova is open in the Blackwell History of Education Museum – College of Education in Northern Illinois University, Chicago USA.
http://news.cedu.niu.edu/coe_news/cameras-eye-blackwell-photo-exhibition-to-tell-tale-of-tetova/
Don’t miss the great chance to visit this Museum!
Center for Peace and Transcultural Communication
Mr. Sc. Donika Kamberi
E-mail: centerforpeace@unite.
Career Center
E-mail: careercenter@unite.
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Secretary General
Adem Beadini
E-mail: adem.beadini@unite.
Office of Education
E-mail: zyraperarsim@unite.edu.mk
International Relations Office
Head: Doc.Dr. Hatibe Deari
E-mail: international@unite.
Office of Finance and Accounting
Head: Mr.Sc. Imberjah Tairi
E-mail: imberjah.tairi@unite.
Office of Legal Affairs
Head: Mr.Sc. Florian Nesimi
E-mail: florian.nesimi@unite.
Press Office
Head: Mr.Sc. Selam Sulejmani
E-mail: press@unite.edu.mk
Project Management Office
E-mail: projects@unite.edu.mk
Office for Scientific Research and Innovation
E-mail: zshi@unite.edu.mk
Office for Evaluation and Quality Management
Head: Asst. Prof. Dr. Sheruze Osmani Ballazhi
E-mail: evaluation@unite.edu.
ECTS Coordinator
Head: Mr. Sc. Naser Ramadani
E-mail: naser.ramadani@unite.
Office for Doctoral Studies
Head: Valmisa Novi
E-mail: doktoratura@unite.edu.
Registrar’s Office
Head: Emin Zejneli
E-mail: emin.zejneli@unite.edu.