University of Tetova, in cooperation with the Embassy of the United States of America in the Republic of North Macedonia and the American Corner in Tetovo, organized the American State Fair on June 20, 2026, in the university park. This special cultural and educational event was held as part of the Freedom 250 celebrations, marking the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America. The fair brought together a large number of citizens, university students, school students, children, and families, who had the opportunity to experience the tradition of American state fairs firsthand through a rich program of educational, cultural, and entertainment activities.
At the opening ceremony, the attendees were first addressed by the Rector of the University of Tetova, Prof. Dr. Jusuf Zejneli, who highlighted the importance of the longstanding partnership between the University of Tetova and the U.S. Embassy. He emphasized that this event is a testament to the fruitful cooperation between the two institutions in the fields of education, culture, and academic exchange.
“It is a privilege for the University of Tetova to host this event, which brings a part of American tradition and culture closer to our citizens through educational, technological, artistic, and entertainment activities. Our university enjoys excellent cooperation with the Embassy of the United States of America and its partner institutions. Through academic programs, student exchanges, cultural activities, and joint projects, we have built a sustainable partnership that has created new opportunities for our students and academic staff. This partnership is part of a much broader friendship between the Albanian people and the American people. Albanians have always found in the United States a sincere friend and a steadfast supporter of freedom, democracy, education, and development. As a sign of respect and gratitude, over the years the University of Tetova has honored distinguished personalities from the United States of America with the title of Doctor Honoris Causa for their valuable contributions to education, science, and the strengthening of Albanian-American relations. Among them, we would particularly highlight Prof. Dr. Lisa Freeman, President of Northern Illinois University, who was recognized for her contribution to the development of inter-university and international cooperation, as well as former U.S. Congressman Joseph J. DioGuardi and the renowned activist Shirley Cloyes DioGuardi, who for decades have been strong advocates for the rights of Albanians and for strengthening the friendship between the American and Albanian peoples. These honors are not only expressions of gratitude but also evidence of the strong ties that the University of Tetova has built with its partners and friends in the United States”, – said the Rector of the University of Tetova, Prof. Dr. Jusuf Zejneli.
Following this, the attendees were addressed by the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States of America to the Republic of North Macedonia, H.E. Mrs. Nicole Varnes, who emphasized that for 250 years, Americans have worked with dedication to build a nation founded on the ideals of freedom, opportunity, civic participation, and the belief that every generation has an important role in shaping the future. According to her, one of the ways Americans celebrate the spirit of community is through state fairs. “Today, we are bringing that same spirit to Tetovo. As you visit the fair, I hope you will explore the many activities being offered, ranging from science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and innovation, to entrepreneurship and the creative industries, sports, wellness, the arts, and, of course, American food and music. Above all, I hope this day inspires new connections and new ideas. The friendship between the United States of America and the Republic of North Macedonia is built on people-to-people relationships, and looking at those gathered here today, I see many of the future leaders right here among us”,- said, among other remarks, the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States of America to the Republic of North Macedonia, H.E. Mrs. Nicole Varnes.
