The Agricultural University of Tirana continues to strengthen its position as a leading institution in higher education and scientific research by promoting the academic development of its staff and supporting research that contributes to the advancement of the agri-food and environmental sectors.
In this context, during the month of June, the Faculty of Agriculture and Environment hosted the public presentation of the research achievements of Associate Professor Dr. Edmond Hala, a faculty member of the Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries, as part of the procedure for the award of the academic title of Professor.
During the presentation, Associate Professor Dr. Hala highlighted the results of his many years of research in the field of aquaculture and fisheries, with a particular focus on the reproductive biology and management of economically important marine species. Among the studies presented was his research on the reproductive maturation of meagre (Argyrosomus regius) reared in floating sea cages, which examined whether hatchery-produced fish raised under standard commercial farming conditions reach gonadal maturity and reproduce naturally. The study was conducted in collaboration with the Histology Laboratory of the Department of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Bari "Aldo Moro" in Italy, demonstrating the high level of international collaboration and the quality of scientific research carried out at the Agricultural University of Tirana.
As part of its ongoing commitment to advancing scientific research, the Agricultural University of Tirana recently hosted the public defense of the doctoral dissertation entitled “Land Suitability Assessment for Cereal Cultivation and Agricultural Mechanization Using GIS-Based Multi-Criteria Analysis” by MSc. Olsid Mema, under the scientific supervision of Associate Professor Dr. Etleva Jojiç.
The dissertation explores the application of modern Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and multi-criteria analysis to identify the most suitable areas for cereal cultivation and to support agricultural mechanization planning. During the public defense, the research was highly commended by the evaluation committee for its scientific quality, innovative approach, and effective use of advanced spatial analysis methods. The findings were recognized as a valuable contribution to both science and practice, providing an important basis for land-use planning, improving the efficiency of agricultural mechanization, and supporting evidence-based decision-making in the agri-food sector.
