The University Metropolitan Tirana (UMT) held its Graduation Ceremony for 2025, marking one of the most important moments in the academic life of the institution. Hundreds of students successfully completed their studies in various fields such as engineering, computer science, architecture, artificial intelligence, and economics.
The ceremony was filled with the energy of young graduates and the emotions of proud parents, while also marking the official launch of UMT’s 15th anniversary celebrations. This anniversary will be accompanied by a year-long program of academic, scientific, cultural, and student-centered activities that aim to reflect the institution’s journey, achievements, and its vision for the future.
The event was attended by distinguished guests from public institutions, representatives of the diplomatic corps, academic leaders, as well as business partners and collaborators of the university. Notable attendees included Mr. Ervin Demo, Minister of State for Local Government, Mrs. Herida Duro, Deputy Minister of Education, Catherine Veber from the French Embassy in Albania, Professor Dhori Kule, members of UMT’s Board, and other institutional representatives.
During the ceremony, the Rector of UMT, Prof. Dr. Nikolla Civici, delivered an inspiring message to the graduates, emphasizing that a diploma is not just a formal document but a tool that enables young people to make a positive impact on society and build their professional future.
In his speech, the President of UMT, Arjan Çukaj, outlined the institution’s vision, which is built on three main pillars: scientific research, quality education, and internationalization. He also provided an overview of the 15-year development of the university.
“In these 15 years, we have invested primarily in youth, offering over 2,000 scholarships and creating a university that focuses on knowledge, innovation, and social responsibility. Internationalization has gained a new dimension with the establishment of the Doctoral School in Artificial Intelligence, the first of its kind in Albania, through partnerships with prestigious French universities such as the University of Grenoble and Paris-Saclay University. Our vision for this anniversary year is to take the next step by establishing Doctoral Schools in Architecture and Economics, as a strategic investment in the future academic staff and young researchers in Albania, in line with international best practices,” said President Arjan Çukaj.
Graduates were also addressed by the Minister of State for Local Government, Ervin Demo, who praised UMT’s contribution to the higher education and innovation ecosystem in Albania, as well as its role in shaping the next generation of professionals.
A special recognition was also given by Catherine Veber, representative of the French Embassy in Albania, who stressed the importance of the partnership with French universities, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence and doctoral programs.
“The collaboration in doctoral studies and scientific research in artificial intelligence positions University Metropolitan Tirana as an important academic partner,” said Veber.
The Deputy Minister of Education, Herida Duro, commended the efforts made to internationalize Albanian universities, highlighting the Ministry’s collaborations with prestigious European institutions such as BOKU University in Austria and the University of Compiègne, specialized in technology and innovation. She also congratulated UMT for its vision and tangible commitment in this area.
A special moment was dedicated to the outstanding students, who were recognized for their academic achievements in computer science, architecture, economics, and artificial intelligence.
UMT, fully specialized in exact sciences, offers programs in computer science, engineering, architecture, and economics. It is the first university in Albania to offer doctoral studies in artificial intelligence, positioning itself as a leader in higher education and scientific research in the country.
