Parents and schools in the era of privatization and commercialization of Albanian Public Education

This article explores how processes of privatisation and commercialisation are reshaping Albania’s public education system. Based on qualitative data from ten semi structured interviews and document analysis, the study investigates two key developments: parents’ increasing reliance on fee-based after-school centers and the introduction of school performance cards. The findings show that limited public investment and short school day, have led families to seek private alternatives. After-school centers, as an example of privatisation, while costly, provide flexible schedules and academic enrichment. Meanwhile, performance cards, as an example of commercialisation, are presented by the system as tools for improving school quality through competition and achievement measurement, but they do not represent substantive reform. The article argues that public education in Albania risks failing to fulfil its responsibility to serve the majority of the population. While privatization may introduce elements of choice and competition, it also risks deepening inequalities. Without substantial public investment and policy reforms that prioritize equity, the risk remains that education will increasingly become less public and more private.