On March 17, 2024, a significant milestone was marked in London as the Albanian Teachers' Association was established for the first time in the history of Albanian language teaching in the United Kingdom. This momentous occasion, orchestrated through the initiative of several associations including "Ardhmëria," "Gjurmët Ilirjane," "Drenica," "Shoqata Akademike Shqiptare," "Nënë Tereza," "Arbëria," and "Bright Eagles," along with the participation of Albanian teachers dedicated to spreading the Albanian language and preserving Albanian culture, signifies a pivotal step in creating a professional association of high caliber.
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| Albanian Teachers' Association in the United Kingdom |
The organization took place at the offices of the "Ardhmëria" association under the special care of its chairman, Mr. Lutfi Vata, and its staff. The procedure for discussing the statute and elections was conducted in a meritocratic spirit with the participation of over 40 co-founders of this association. Present to observe the proceedings and elections was Deputy Ambassador Ms. Almona Bajramaj, who conveyed the appreciation of the Albanian state as its high representative in the United Kingdom.
Following discussions, proposals, and ideas, the statute of the Teachers' Association was approved and voted on, and three candidates were proposed for the position of chairman: Ms. Ardjana Gjoni, Mr. Lutfi Vata, and Ms. Alda Çapia. The voting by 28 attendees in the meeting hall and 14 online, totaling 42 founders, yielded the following results:
Chairman: Mr. Lutfi Vata
Vice-Chairwoman: Ms. Ardjana Gjoni
Vice-Chairman: Mr. Abedin Bajraktari
Spokeswoman: Ms. Anila Kadija
Secretary: Ms. Adelina Hysenaj
Treasurer: Ms. Ornela Gjeta
Members:
► Rozana Hykaj
► Alda Capja
► Lindita Bazina
► Najada Fani
► Esmeralda Spahia
► Ilira Mucaj
► Marsela Kalaja Hoxha
► Vildane Dibra Zhubi
► Euord Pajo
► Migena Goga
► Enxhi Lami
► Dallendyshe Lashi
At the conclusion of the elections, the Deputy Ambassador congratulated Mr. Lutfi Vata and the entire assembly, highlighting the significance of this initiative in establishing an important institution for Albanian teachers in the United Kingdom.
After the process, Mr. Lutfi Vata expressed his enthusiasm and thanked everyone for their trust, emphasizing that this Association would be an open door for all Albanian language teachers not only in London but also in every part of the UK where Albanian schools exist or are planned to open.
Ms. Almona Bajramaj, ensuring the support of all Albanian authorities and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized their support for Albanian teachers and students to fulfill their needs with textbooks serving Albanian language teaching, cultural dissemination, and the preservation of national identity. "Collaboration with the Albanian Embassy in London will continue as always, and their support will be unwavering for the Teachers' Association," Ms. Bajramaj stated.
The work began voluntarily for a common purpose, all together!