The students of the College of Europe in Tirana closely observed, during a study visit, the projects funded by the European Union throughout Albania.

“The first moment was to see how the European Union is present even beyond the capital, funding projects across the country. The second was engaging with young people from Rrëshen and Lezha, to tell them more about the College and to share advice and ideas on how to apply in the future,” says Arzu Karimzade.

She was one of about 20 students who visited both the north and south of Albania on a study trip organized by the European Union, stopping in Rrëshen, Lezhë, Razëm, Shkodër, Gjirokastër, Sarandë, and Ksamil. The aim was to involve the students of the College of Europe in discussions about communication, challenges, and educational opportunities for young people, providing them with a valuable opportunity to explore cultural sites, as well as to learn about EU-funded projects and interventions in areas — from churches, castles, and museums to roads, environmental initiatives, tourism projects, and more.

Ella-Marie Beirnaert, a Belgian student at the College of Europe in Tirana, stated that her favorite part of this study trip was the visit to the burial site of Skanderbeg in Lezhë. Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, united the people by gathering all the princes to discuss how to defend Albania from the Ottoman invasion. “This was perhaps the first attempt to establish diplomatic relations with Europe, as his actions prevented the Ottomans from passing through Albania to enter the rest of the continent,” says the student.

The visits were part of the EU Educational Campaign, focused on providing information about opportunities for Albanian students and youth, showcasing successful examples of EU-funded projects through study and cultural visits.

Paul Anderson, a student from Scotland, noted not only the impact of the European Union in terms of projects for young people but also in nurturing their ambitions, hopes, and dreams. The same impression was shared by Anita Balliu, born in Albania but raised in Belgium.

While Paul Anderson appreciated the walk along the sunny promenade of Shiroka, Düriye Toto from Cyprus highlighted Albanian cuisine – byrek, fërgesë, and shëndetlie – on a trip that included many tastes and sights of the country, with cultural monuments reflecting Albania’s rich and diverse history.

Aleks Vangjelovski, born in Pogradec, raised in Italy, and now returned to Albania as a student at the College of Europe, says he felt particularly connected to the Church of Rubik.

Walking near the Bazaar Mosque in Gjirokastër, Gabriel Fernandez Alonso, a student from Spain, shared his insights from the southern part of the trip. “I enjoyed meeting young people in Gjirokastër – both local youth and a group of Spanish students who are currently on Erasmus there,” said the student.

Further south, where water and history meet, visitors were faced with breathtaking views and ancient stories. “The Ksamil/Butrint part of the trip was definitely my favorite. The view of the ruins of Roman architecture scattered throughout the park, with the sea so close, was unforgettable,” says Adam Kelly, a student from Ireland.

Francisco Javier Buades Piqueres from Spain also shared his amazement with Sarandë. “The mussel tour in Lake Butrint was, without a doubt, my favorite moment. Supported by the ‘EU for Innovation’ Challenge Fund, it was incredible to see how sustainable tourism initiatives are creating new opportunities for the region while preserving its natural beauty. A truly unforgettable part of the trip,” he adds.

These visits, which acquainted students with the nature and culture of Albania and the EU’s contribution to their preservation and revitalization, began with the vision of a student.

“Since I started my studies at the College of Europe, I wanted to find a way for my peers from all over Europe to experience Albania beyond Tirana and connect with young people from smaller towns, where information about our college might not be as accessible. Thanks to the support of the EU Delegation in Albania, we made this possible, experiencing two wonderful study trips across the country, from north to south,” says Desantila Muriqi, a student from Kosovo. (May 6)