The Golden Anniversary

A historical-scientific symposium on the occasion of the anniversary of the founding of Qiriazi University College.

On the occasion of the 131st anniversary of its founding and the 100th anniversary of the reopening of the Kyrias Institute (today Qiriazi University College), on November 22, 2022, the Senate of this college organized: “The Day of the Golden Anniversary.”

Qiriazi University College traces its beginnings to October 1891 in the city of Korça. It first opened under the well-known name “The Girls’ School”, continuing uninterrupted for 22 years until 1913. At that time, it was the only school in the Albanian language that survived thanks to the contribution of the Qiriazi family: Gjerasim Qiriazi and his two sisters, Sevasti and Parashqevi Qiriazi, and later the Renaissance figure Kristo Dako. In addition to teaching and educating hundreds of girls who sat at its benches, the “Kyrias School” also became a center of patriotic activity and anti-Ottoman resistance.

Albanian Renaissance figures called this school “The National Nest”; foreigners who visited it named it “The Lighthouse of Albania.”

“The Kyrias Institute is the Holy Temple” – wrote Asdreni. Meanwhile, an intellectual of the time described it as “The national altar of Albanianism.” Throughout its entire educational life, the Kyrias Institute was devoted to the education of women. Its achievements were remarkable, leaving an indelible mark on the emancipation of Albanian women, at a time when it was unthinkable that they would one day have the right to sit at school benches. “The Institute advanced. From a handful of girls covered with veils, to a student body – shining examples of the new Albanian woman,” said one foreign observer.

From its founding in Korça and later when it reopened in Tirana, the Kyrias Institute demonstrated the American model of school programs and management. This fact was also emphasized by leaders of the Ministry of Education at the time. Fan Noli, Luigj Gurakuqi, Mihal Grameno, Kristo Floqi, Pandeli Evangjeli, Kristo Frashëri, and many other distinguished personalities praised the Kyrias School and Institute for its contribution and the cultural and educational impact it radiated across Albania.

In addition to the historical-scientific symposium, which was held in two panels, the celebration of this anniversary also included the presentation of a publication dedicated to this institution, a historical documentary, a photographic exhibition reflecting the history of Qiriazi University College through the years, and other activities.

The symposium’s presentations covered various topics related to the past and present of the teaching, academic, and scientific activity of the Kyrias School and Institute up to Qiriazi University College.

For Qiriazi University College, November 22 is a marked day of celebration. We have named this day “The Golden Anniversary”, convinced that universities attain such brilliance only when they pass the century mark.