Education & Research
Albania is modernizing its education system and actively promoting research and innovation. There are numerous cooperation opportunities for German universities, institutes, and foundations.
Strengths of the Albanian Education and Research System
- Over 45% of the population is under 35 years old
- High literacy rate: 97.6%
- Around 20 public and private universities with a growing focus on STEM
- The Polytechnic University of Tirana is considered the country’s leading technical university
- Close cooperation with EU programs such as Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, IPA III
- Expansion of dual vocational education in cooperation with Germany (e.g. GIZ, KfW)
- Specialized vocational training institutions in technology, IT, tourism, and agriculture
- State-supported research and innovation centers under development
International Cooperation
Albania is actively involved in numerous European and regional education and research initiatives. German institutions such as GIZ, the DAAD, and the Goethe-Institut support programs for higher education development, vocational training, and innovation promotion.
There are particular opportunities for joint research projects, the development of innovation clusters, and knowledge transfer in areas such as digitalization, sustainability, energy, and health.
Innovation
In April 2025, Prof. Dr. Thomas Druyen, in his role as Honorary Consul, visited the University of the Arts in Tirana and gave a widely noted lecture titled:
“The Greatest Transformation in History: The Psychological Effects of Artificial Intelligence”
In his talk, Prof. Druyen explored the interplay between technological development and artistic expression, as well as the societal responsibility in dealing with artificial intelligence.
The event brought together students, academics, and cultural professionals and promoted interdisciplinary exchange between Germany and Albania.
