67 new officers graduate from the Armed Forces Academy; Minister Nufi: Investing in military education is an investment in our Euro-Atlantic Future

Published: Thursday, 23 July 2026 15:48

Sixty-seven new officers, including ten from the Republic of Kosovo, have successfully completed the one-year Officer Training Course at the Armed Forces Academy (AFA).

The graduation ceremony, held last evening at the “Skënderbej” Garrison, was attended by Prime Minister Edi Rama; Minister of Defence Ermal Nufi; Minister of Education Mirela Kumbaro; Minister of Defence of the Republic of Kosovo Ejup Maqedonci; Chief of the General Staff of the Albanian Armed Forces Lieutenant General Arben Kingji; senior representatives of the Albanian Armed Forces; ambassadors; defence attachés; faculty members; family members; and other invited guests.

In his keynote address, Minister of Defence Ermal Nufi congratulated the newly commissioned officers on successfully completing the programme.

“Today, Albania welcomes a new generation of officers,a generation of leaders well prepared to serve their country, its citizens, and to represent the Albanian flag with dignity. I warmly congratulate all 67 new officers, including the 10 graduates from Kosovo, on successfully completing the Officer Training Course. Today, the Armed Forces Academy is more than an educational institution; it is where leaders of character, integrity and professionalism are shaped, inspired by the values of duty, honour and patriotism. I firmly believe that investing in education is the most important investment we can make in our shared security and our Euro-Atlantic future.”

Minister Nufi also expressed his sincere appreciation to the Academy's faculty and instructors for shaping this new generation of officers, just as they have done for those who came before them.

“My special thanks also go to the families of these cadets, whose unwavering support has accompanied them throughout this journey.” he added.

The Minister stressed that the newly commissioned officers carry not only a military rank, but also the trust of an entire nation, a responsibility that has become even more significant at a time when the international security environment is evolving at an unprecedented pace.

Concluding his remarks, Minister Nufi extended his special thanks to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Albania, the staff of the Ministry of Defence, and the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Kosovo for attending the graduation ceremony.

“I believe their presence here today is deeply symbolic. It reflects not only the support of the Government of Albania, but also that of the Government of Kosovo for this Academy. At the same time, it serves as a reminder of the day you took your oath, the day you made the decision to dedicate your lives to serving in the Armed Forces of the Republic. It is a special day—one that will never be forgotten. We are immensely proud of all of you. I wish you every success in your journey ahead. Honour the oath you take today. Honour your country. Honour the flag.”