Education of the Greek minority during the transition period in the district of Gjirokastra

Abstract

Education of the Greek minority living in the district of Gjirokastra has eventually been and still remains one of the main challenges of Albanian state and society, as well. Their education is not only a matter of educational nature, but primarily this education is related to the application of the Albanian constitutional principles, international judicial normative act, conventions and decisions of the organizations where Albania adheres to. Nowadays, this community enjoys several rights in the field of education in the Greek language, which are being embodied in the opening up of schools near every village where this community lives, the training of qualified teachers, school textbook compilation, setting up new specific laboratories etc. Despite the fact that a special care has
been shown towards this community, some schools have been closed due to the demographic moves, support and integration this population has been offered by the Greek state. However, new and efficient ways have been applied concerning their education aspect. In the city of Gjirokastra there are classes of Greek language and also a high school that prepares teachers of Greek language. The population of Greek minority has completely been integrated into the Albanian society and accordingly, it serves as a connecting
and cooperation bridge with the Greek state.