University of Prishtina Marks 56th Anniversary with Formal Ceremony and Academic Honors

The University of Prishtina celebrated the 56th anniversary of its founding with a formal ceremony, reflecting on its history, recognizing current achievements, and outlining a clear path forward.

The event began with the national anthem, followed by the academic hymn “Gaudeamus Igitur.” The traditional anniversary speech was delivered by the University’s Rector, Prof. Dr. Arben Hajrullahu.

Speaking about the University’s accomplishments, international growth, and transformation into a modern, open institution, Rector Hajrullahu noted that the people of Kosovo have always held high expectations for the University of Prishtina.

“Leading an institution like the University of Prishtina is both a major responsibility and a unique, once-in-a-lifetime honor. The University has always been viewed—and continues to be seen—by the people of Kosovo and beyond as a source of hope for progress and a better future.”

The anniversary program included supportive video messages from Prof. Kohei Arai, Emeritus Professor of Saga University in Japan, and Prof. Russel Ganim, Associate Provost and Dean of the University of Iowa. Also speaking were Prof. Janez Vogrinc, Vice-Rector of the University of Ljubljana, and Dr. Ardita Jahja, Director of Scientific Research at Finland’s Savonia University of Applied Sciences, both of whom received recognition from the University of Prishtina on behalf of their institutions.

Additional remarks were shared by University of Prishtina student Emma Whale from Malawi, a Kosovo Scholarship Fund recipient; Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Arsim Ademi; Vice-President of the Kosovo Academy of Sciences and Arts, Academician Fejzullah Krasniqi; and Student Parliament President Drilona Hamiti.

Artistic performances were provided by the University of Prishtina Faculty of Arts Choir, led by Professor Valton Beqiri, along with distinguished faculty musicians: Prof. Lule Elezi, Prof. Rron Bakalli, and Prof. Lirika Pula.