Graduation day for 80 new officers of the AAF, minister Peleshi: An additional support package to face the challenges in the current time

Published: Friday, 28 July 2023 21:09

80 new officers will become part of the Albanian Armed Forces. After successfully completing their studies at the Academy of the Armed Forces, they were titled in a special ceremony, which was attended by the Defence Minister Niko Peleshi, the Chief of the General Staff of the AF, Major General Arben Kingji, generals, directors, family members.
During his welcoming speech, Minister Peleshi praised the journey of these youngsters who have chosen to pursue military education. He stated that this is not an easy feat, but a decision based on strong values, patriotism, and love for their nation.

“Serving in the Armed Forces is more than just a mission. It embodies a challenging task that demands sacrifice, perseverance, and being the first to step up when the nation and task require it.”, - emphasized in his speech Mr. Peleshi.

The Defence Minister also appreciated the work done at the AF Academy for the training of youngsters who aspire to serve in the Armed Forces: "We intend to transform the academy into a 'laboratory' for training the upcoming generation of young officers who will become future leaders.”, - declared Minister Peleshi.

Starting from the academic year 2023-2024, the Academy will open Bachelor's Programs in International Relations and Communication Science focused on Defense Field. These programs will prioritize components of leadership, character, academic excellence, and high physical preparation. The model for these programs has been taken from 240 years of American experience and made possible through our partnership with the US military academy West Point.

Additionally, Minister Peleshi stated that as a member of NATO, these officers will receive training on how to effectively lead teams that are capable of supporting joint and multinational operations during rapid technological changes and continuous organizational developments.
It has been announced by the Defense Minister that the Center of Cyber Excellence in Estonia has become a partner. Furthermore, the process for membership in Finland's Center of Excellence for hybrid threats has begun.
Minister Peleshi has stated the establishment of the Technological Innovation Center as a part of the AF, focusing on absorbing and implementing innovative concepts to enhance capabilities and standards as well as improving the working and living conditions of both males and females in uniform: “Due to the challenges presented by time, and thanks to your unique profession as well, the Albanian government has decided to respond through a proactive approach to offer a complex support package that includes modernization, salary increases, financial assistance for difficulties, and support with accommodations for officers who serve far from their residential centers.”,- emphasized Minister Peleshi.

Finally, he extended an invitation to youngsters to pursue the same path as the newly graduated officers by joining the Armed Forces, to serve a new reality, better-equipped, better trained, and more well-educated.
Among the newly entitled officers, 52 of them belong to the first generation of the "Military Science" branch while 28 of them completed the "Young Officer Course". There were 21 female officers who granted the title.