Strengthening the Teaching of the Albanian Language and Identity in the Diaspora and in Germany

Funded by GIZ Albania and implemented by Gruaja në Integrim in partnership with “Luigj Gurakuqi” University in Shkodra, the project aims to strengthen Albanian language teachers’ professional capacities in Germany and help younger generations preserve their language and cultural identity. Running from December 2025 to November 2026, it will assess teachers’ needs in up to two German federal states and develop either a pilot Master’s programme in Albanian Language and Identity or an alternative package of training, teaching resources and mentoring. Workshops, consultations and academic and community partnerships will support policy recommendations and a sustainable teacher development network. The Master’s programme remains subject to feasibility and approvals, and its launch may extend beyond the project period.

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INITIAL PILOT SCOPE
Up to two German federal states, selected through an assessment of needs and implementation feasibility.

PURPOSE
Strengthen the professional capacities of Albanian language teachers in Germany and improve the quality of diaspora language education, supporting younger generations in preserving their Albanian language and cultural identity.

CORE APPROACH
Develop a pilot Master’s programme in Albanian Language and Identity or an alternative professional development package comprising training, teaching resources and mentoring. The approach will be determined by the needs assessment and feasibility findings.

KEY ACTIVITIES

• Assess teachers’ professional development needs, map community schools and examine available qualification pathways.

• Develop and review curricula in collaboration with academic experts and diaspora teachers.

• Organise workshops, consultations and a joint conference.

• Prepare policy recommendations and establish academic and community partnerships.

EXPECTED OUTPUTS
A needs and market assessment; a draft framework for a Master’s programme or an alternative teacher development package; a policy brief; and a partnership network to support future implementation and expansion.

LONG-TERM VISION
Establish a sustainable network for teacher development and knowledge exchange, with the potential to expand to other Albanian-speaking diaspora communities.

IMPLEMENTATION NOTE
The launch of the Master’s programme is subject to feasibility findings and the necessary approvals. Implementation may extend beyond the project period.

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LOCATION: Albania and Germany

PLANNED DURATION: December 2025 – 30 November 2026

PRIMARY BENEFICIARIES: Albanian language teachers working in community schools and cultural centres in Germany.

FUNDED BY: GIZ Albania

IMPLEMENTED BY: Gruaja në Integrim

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH: Department of Albanian Language and Literature, “Luigj Gurakuqi” University, Shkodra

ENVISAGED PARTNERS: ODA Hamburg e.V./KASH “Naim Frashëri”/LAPSH Bavari e.V./German educational institutions