On December 1, 2024, the National Historical Museum in Tirana marked the 115th anniversary of the founding of the Elbasan Normal School, Albania's first national pedagogical institution. Established on December 1, 1909, the school was a direct outcome of the Elbasan Congress held earlier that year from September 2 to 8. It represented a cornerstone in the development of modern Albanian education and played a pivotal role in cultivating generations of teachers who contributed significantly to the nation's cultural and intellectual growth.
The Founding of Elbasan Normal School
The Elbasan Normal School was born from the urgent need to institutionalize education in the Albanian language during a period of Ottoman rule. The school opened its doors with an initial enrollment of 50 students, but by the end of the 1909-1910 academic year, the number had grown to 160, with students coming from all regions of Albania, including Kosovo and Çamëria. Luigj Gurakuqi, one of Albania's most celebrated intellectuals, served as the school’s first director. Prominent educators such as Aleksandër Xhuvani, Hafiz Ibrahim Dalliu, Sotir Peci, and Eqrem Çabej were among the faculty, laying a strong foundation for Albanian-language education.
Challenges and Resilience
From its inception, the school faced numerous challenges, including a lack of teaching materials and resources. Many of its teaching plans were borrowed from more developed Western systems, but these were often impractical due to the school’s limited infrastructure. Despite these obstacles, the school became a beacon of hope and progress for Albania, shaping the first generation of national educators.
The school’s operations were disrupted multiple times due to political upheavals and wars. It closed temporarily during the Balkan Wars and World War I but reopened in 1921, operating consistently until 1943, when many students joined the National Liberation Movement against fascist forces. Over 63 students and alumni of the school became martyrs during this period.
Preserving the Legacy
Efforts to preserve the legacy of the Elbasan Normal School began as early as 1959 with the creation of a small museum corner to mark its 50th anniversary. By 1993, a more comprehensive museum was established within the school, showcasing over 5,000 historical documents, photographs, and artifacts. This collection, enriched by contributions from former students and national institutions, offers a vivid portrayal of the school’s enduring impact on Albanian education and society.
The museum, now a key cultural heritage site, features exhibits of early textbooks, teaching tools, and memorabilia from notable alumni and faculty. It also serves as a testament to the school’s role in fostering the intellectual and cultural identity of the Albanian people.
A Beacon of Albanian Education
As the first Albanian-language secondary school, the Elbasan Normal School stands as a symbol of resilience and dedication to education, even in the face of adversity. Its legacy continues to inspire generations, reflecting the enduring importance of education in shaping a nation’s future.
The commemoration at the National Historical Museum not only honored the past achievements of the Elbasan Normal School but also emphasized its continued relevance as a cornerstone of Albanian national identity and progress.