Albania begins 2026-2027 school year with new reforms

The 2026-2027 school year has commenced across Albania, with approximately 345,000 students returning to classrooms, including roughly 25,000 children entering first grade for the first time.

Significant infrastructure updates accompany the new term, including the opening of approximately 42 new or rehabilitated schools and sports fields. The Ministry of Education has distributed new, free textbooks for the entire primary education cycle (grades 1-5). New initiatives include the expansion of the ‘After School’ program to 408 schools and the introduction of guidelines for using artificial intelligence tools, such as ChatGPT and Gemini, in teaching.

To enhance safety, over 400 security officers will be deployed nationwide, and 20 schools in Tirana are participating in a ‘Smart City’ pilot project featuring intelligent cameras. Additionally, 900 psychologists and social workers will be available to support students.

Despite these investments, the country faces demographic challenges. Regions such as Berat and Korçë report a noticeable decline in student enrollment compared to the previous year. Furthermore, economic pressures are noted, as the cost of school supplies has risen by 20–35%, and Albania's education spending remains at 2.9% of GDP, below the EU average.