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| Dr. Sait Bilal Golemi |
Dr. Sait Bilal Golemi, born in Golem of Kurvelesh, Albania, was not only an exceptional veterinarian and scientist but also a devoted patriot. His journey, marked by academic achievements and a commitment to his homeland, is a testament to his unwavering dedication.
Early Life and Education
Born into a modest family, Golemi faced economic hardships that led his family to migrate to Turkey in 1906, settling in Istanbul. Despite the challenges, Golemi retained the beauty of Golem in his heart and continued his primary and secondary education. In 1923, he graduated from the Military Veterinary School, obtaining his veterinary degree.
To pursue higher specialization, Golemi went to Germany but faced financial constraints, allowing him only four months of study. He later moved to Paris, where he continued his studies at the Pasteur Institute, not neglecting his primary profession as a veterinarian.
Return to Albania
In Paris, Golemi married a French woman, but his heart remained devoted to his birthplace. In 1928, he returned to Albania with his French wife, Nilyfer, who was proficient in both Albanian and Turkish.
As Dr. Bilal Golemi began his service in Albania, King Zog I had self-proclaimed as the "King of the Albanians." Golemi worked in the field of animal husbandry, conducting research in this branch of veterinary science.
Political Struggles
Golemi, influenced by his Qemalists background in Turkey and republican ideals from France, disagreed with the feudal monarchical stance of King Zog I. The political differences led to tensions, with King Zog I frequently attempting to undermine Dr. Golemi.
Despite the challenges, Golemi established the bacteriological-veterinary laboratory. However, reactionary forces entangled him in the events of the Vlorë uprising in 1930. The Zogist court sentenced him to 101 years of imprisonment, prompting Golemi to protest with a hunger strike while steadfastly holding onto his democratic views.
Due to internal and external pressures, King Zog I's regime granted amnesty to Dr. Bilal Golemi and several other associates on February 13, 1935.
Legacy and Later Years
Returning to Turkey, Golemi worked in various capacities, contributing significantly to scientific research. In 1952, he was appointed as the director of the "Refik Saydam" health center, a pioneering hospital. Despite suffering from health issues acquired during his time in Zogist prisons, Golemi passed away on March 15, 1955, in Istanbul, and was buried in Istinye, near his father, Ali Golemi.
In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Sait Bilal Golemi received the "Legion of Honour" from the French government in 1952. Albania also honored him posthumously in 1969 with the Order of Labour, First Class, bestowed by the People's Assembly.
Dr. Bilal Golemi's extensive research, comprising over 50 original scientific studies, left an indelible mark on his profession. A room at the "Refik Saydam Health Center" is named the "Dr. Sait Bilal Golemi Salonu," where his legacy continues through the ongoing work of the B.C. G. laboratory.