More than 340,000 students across Albania’s pre-university education system returned to school on Monday, September 14, marking the start of the 2026-2027 academic year.

Among them are around 25,000 first-graders who entered school for the first time, beginning a new chapter in their education.

Education Minister Mirela Kumbaro marked the start of the school year with a video message shared on Facebook, congratulating students and promising continued efforts to improve learning conditions across the country.

Addressing the youngest students, Kumbaro acknowledged the excitement and emotions surrounding their first day of school and encouraged them to embrace the experience and create lasting memories.

“Today you will get to know your school, learn where your classroom is, discover the gym where you will play, the playground where you will take breaks, and the school’s smart laboratory where you will learn to create and explore,” Kumbaro said in her message.

She also highlighted a range of educational initiatives planned for students throughout the academic year, including science festivals, academic Olympiads, language competitions and choral events.

Kumbaro said the government and education authorities would work throughout the school year to provide students with better learning environments, including laboratories, smart labs and projects designed to support creativity and academic achievement.

The new academic year comes as Albania continues efforts to modernize its education infrastructure and expand opportunities for students across the pre-university system.