Dean of the Faculty of Philology at the University of Tetova, Prof. Dr. Emine Shabani, and the Vice-Dean for Science, Prof. Dr. Hana Dardhishta, representing the same academic unit, participated on October 20, 2026, in a scientific conference dedicated to the 300th anniversary of the migration of the Arbanasi to Zadar, Croatia. The event was of particular historical, linguistic, and cultural significance.
The conference, entitled “Arbanasi–Identity, Culture and the Community’s Contribution”, served as an opportunity to commemorate the history and heritage of the Arbëneshë community in Zadar, as well as to highlight their role in preserving and passing down the Albanian language, traditions, and identity from one generation to the next.
On this occasion, the Dean of the Faculty of Philology described participation in the conference as a unique scientific, cultural, and emotional experience. She expressed her gratitude to the organizers, commending their dedication, tireless work, excellent organization, and warm hospitality.
According to the Dean, this historic anniversary represents a valuable opportunity to honor the past, appreciate cultural heritage, and strengthen scholarly and friendly ties among researchers and participants.
She particularly emphasized the resilience of the Arbanasi, who, over the course of three centuries, have managed to preserve their Albanian language, traditions, and identity, while also contributing to the rich cultural mosaic of Zadar and Croatia.
In this context, the Dean highlighted the importance of language as a bearer of collective memory and as a living testament to national identity. She noted that the Arbanasi of Zadar represent a valuable bridge between the Albanian and Croatian peoples, while their historical and cultural heritage deserves continued scholarly research, institutional recognition, and transmission to future generations.
The participation of the University of Tetova’s representatives in this conference reaffirms the importance attached to the study and promotion of the Albanian language, history, and culture, as well as to strengthening academic cooperation between Albanian and Croatian institutions and scholars.
