On October 10th, the American Academy of Tirana and Technology marked a historic milestone as it officially opened its doors to the first-ever generation of students. Orientation Day was more than just a welcome event; it served as a symbolic start to a new era of higher education in Albania, bringing the prestigious American degree to Tirana for the first time.

The campus was filled with a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation as the inaugural class began to explore their new academic home. Students spent the day connecting with peers, meeting faculty, and immersing themselves in the values of innovation and discovery that define the RIT global community.

A Milestone for Albanian Education

During the ceremony, Mr. Edmond Leka, Board Chairman of AATT, reflected on the immense cooperation required to bring this project to life. He expressed deep gratitude to the key partners who made this initiative possible, including the Ministry of Education, the United States Embassy in Tirana, and the Albanian-American Development Foundation (AADF). He also offered special recognition to the Foundos family for their invaluable contributions to the realization of the campus.

Mr. Leka highlighted the historical significance of the day, noting that this is the first time an accredited American degree has been offered directly within Albania. He credited this achievement to strong inter-institutional cooperation and a shared dedication to elevating the country’s educational standards.

An Inspiring Message to the Inaugural Class

Addressing the students directly, Mr. Leka emphasized their unique role in the university’s history. He reminded them that as the first generation, they serve as the primary ambassadors of this initiative. He expressed his full confidence in their abilities to succeed and to set a high standard for those who will follow in their footsteps.

The chairman concluded his remarks by wishing the students a year defined by energy, curiosity, and confidence. His words set an optimistic tone for the academic journey ahead, reinforcing the university’s commitment to their personal and professional growth.

A Unified Future

Orientation Day concluded with a strong sense of pride and unity among students and staff alike. As classes begin, AATT is not just launching an academic year; it is establishing a legacy of excellence that aims to transform the educational landscape of Albania for years to come.