Dear students, colleagues,
here at The University of Vlora (UV) we aim to give our students a first class education and strive for academic excellence. It is stated in the mission of UV to aim for the highest quality of teaching and research. This high quality is maintained by recruiting the best and the brightest students and faculty that this country has to offer, and by aggressively recruiting internationally known scientists who come from all parts of the world to be part of UV.
Two years ago, our goal was to start something new, something different from the old style communist education. We wanted to part with the past and put the foundations of a solid and strong university, away from political influences and based only on merit and scientific values. Our slogan reads "Virtus, Scientia, Veritas".
During this short time, we have managed to make our university a unique experience in Albania. UV has the highest number of foreign graduates in its faculty ranks, the most ambitions science and engineering programs, and more active researchers than any other university in the country. We are definitely different than any other university that Albania has to offer.
However, last week something happened that is about to change all that. The government has "ordered" us to accept 806 students who do not meet our admission criteria. In full violation of the law, which states clearly that universities set the admission criteria, the weak government coalition has decided that this is a popular move for them. Such decision has set e new precedent in the level of arrogance and intimidation that the government has used to impose its will on academic institutions.
While the UV has clearly stayed out of political affiliations, this government has chosen the path of intimidation, pressure on university officials, and is clearly trying to use our university as a tool to strengthen its political position.
In the name of the students and faculty of The University of Vlora, we protest such decisions, and intend to have a total strike on October 12 when the new academic year starts. Meanwhile, we ask for the help and support of all scientific associations, organizations, business leaders, diplomats and international organizations who can support us in any way.
By supporting us you will support our students, faculty, and our academic programs based on merit and not political affiliations. Moreover, your support will also help strengthen the fragile Albanian democracy.
Sincerely,
the faculty members of the University of Vlora.
Krijoni Kontakt