Conference Held at SEEU “Albanian Language, Literature and Culture, From Independence Until Today”

Scholars of Albanian language and literature from the universities in Albania, Kosovo and Macedonia participated in this conference.

The conference was organized on the occasion of the 100^th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Albania and the Albanian Flag Day.

In his introductory speech, the Rector of SEEU, Prof. Dr. Zamir Dika, said that the Albanian historical dates mark the development synopsis through the centuries. "Maybe, it is quite a coincidence, but the birthday of our University is exactly in November and this time coincides with the major events of our nation. Since the establishment of our University the mission is clearly carved, including the commitment to promote Albanian language in higher education, in addition to efforts to achieve excellence in teaching and research," said among other things, Rector Dika.

SEEU Provost Prof. Dr. Andrew Goodspeed also greeted the participants of the conference, who addressed the audience in the Albanian language.

“This year, you mark the 100^th anniversary of the Independence of Albania. You have a great reason to celebrate. Independence is difficult to achieve and therefore continuously must be protected. These years were not so easy for Albania. World Wars were terrible, dictatorship years were painful. But the Albanian people today have a strong and safe State. Albania is now integrated into the European and international organizations. We have good reason to believe that the next 100 years will be better," said among others, Provost Goodspeed.

By citing a few words of the Albanian patriot Mit'hat Frashëri, the Rector’s Advisor, Mr. Demush Bajrami, spoke about the importance and role of Albanian literature in the 100-year history of the Albanian State.

“Language and literature have had an impact on events and assessing the implications for future generations. Literature has established a unique model of patriotism, which will coincide with historiographical assessments, because the nature of things that are outlined in the calendar of events, in the collective memory and national identity, have played an important role," said Mr. Bajrami.

The Pro-dean of the Faculty of Languages, Cultures and Communication, Prof. Dr. Hamit Xhaferi mentioned the activities, which were organized by SEEU on the occasion of the 100^th anniversary of Independence of Albania. He said that the marking of this important jubilee with a scientific conference for language and literature makes us more valuable for ourselves and others.

Participants were greeted by Prof. Dr. Zeqir Kadri, who spoke on behalf of the Department of the Albanian Language and Literature, by wishing this conference to encourage fruitful debate.

The conference was conducted in two sessions, where renowned authors of Albanian language and literature presented their papers.