It was a special pleasure for the Agricultural University of Tirana to honor today two distinguished personalities who, through their work, dedication, and professionalism, have made a significant contribution to the country's academic, media, and social life. During a special ceremony attended by the Academic Senate, AUT awarded a Certificate of Appreciation to the renowned journalist and researcher Edlira Birko, while Prof. Dr. Flutura Kalemi was honored with the prestigious title of Professor Emeritus.
The ceremony was opened by Prof. Dr. Erinda Lika, Vice Rector for Science and Projects, who presented the profile and achievements of Ms. Edlira Birko, highlighting her longstanding contribution to Albanian journalism and, in particular, her role in promoting education, science, and knowledge through public media. She emphasized that throughout her career, Edlira Birko has demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and a continuous commitment to quality journalism and public education.
Following this, Prof. Dr. Ardian Maçi delivered a tribute speech, sharing his appreciation for the distinguished career of journalist Edlira Birko and her contribution to covering developments in Albanian education. He emphasized that the media and universities share a common mission in the service of knowledge and that professionals such as Edlira Birko have played an important role in building bridges of communication between academic institutions and the wider public.
Subsequently, Prof. Dr. Fatbardh Sallaku, Rector of the Agricultural University of Tirana, praised the contributions of both distinguished women honored by the university. He emphasized that AUT has had the privilege of collaborating for many years with Ms. Edlira Birko, who, through the television program “Auditor Arsimi” on RTSH, which she has hosted for more than 20 years, has consistently promoted higher education, scientific research, and the achievements of Albanian universities. He noted that her work has played an important role in bringing academia closer to the public and in highlighting the value of education and knowledge in society.
Upon receiving the recognition, Ms. Edlira Birko expressed her sincere gratitude for the honor bestowed upon her by the Agricultural University of Tirana. She shared emotional reflections on her professional journey, highlighting the important role of the media in promoting knowledge and education, as well as the contribution of academic institutions to the development and progress of the country.
In the second part of the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Erinda Lika presented the academic and scientific achievements of Prof. Dr. Flutura Kalemi, highlighting her longstanding contribution to Albanian higher education, scientific research, and the development of the Faculty of Economics and Agribusiness. She emphasized Prof. Kalemi’s dedication to academic excellence, her role in educating generations of students, and her valuable contribution to strengthening the faculty’s academic and institutional profile over the years.
Prof. Assoc. Dr. Skënder Uku, Head of the Department of Finance at the Faculty of Economics and Agribusiness, AUT, also delivered a tribute speech, highlighting Prof. Kalemi’s significant contribution to the academic life of the faculty and her lasting impact on the education and inspiration of both students and colleagues. He emphasized her dedication to teaching, academic excellence, and her role in shaping generations of professionals through her commitment to higher education.
The institutional address was delivered by Prof. Dr. Remzi Keço, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Agribusiness, who emphasized that Prof. Dr. Flutura Kalemi has been an integral part of the faculty for many years, making a valuable contribution to the advancement of academic standards, the development of study programs, and the strengthening of the university’s academic culture. He highlighted her dedication to teaching, research, and institutional development, describing her as one of the faculty’s most respected and influential academic figures.
Prof. Dr. Fatbardh Sallaku, Rector of the Agricultural University of Tirana, highly praised the outstanding contribution and exemplary career of Prof. Dr. Flutura Kalemi and awarded her the prestigious title of Professor Emeritus in recognition of her exceptional achievements in higher education, scientific research, and academic life. Upon receiving the title, Prof. Kalemi expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the university, her colleagues, and the generations of students with whom she has shared a long and distinguished professional journey. She reflected on the importance of academic dedication, lifelong learning, and the collective efforts that contribute to the growth and success of higher education institutions.
