75 officers from Albania and Kosovo start three professional Courses at the Defence and Security College

Published: Tuesday, 29 September 2026 16:13

Minister Nufi: “Investing in knowledge, professionalism and leadership is an investment in our country’s security and defence”

Seventy-five officers have begun the new academic year across three professional courses at the Defence and Security College. Of these, 65 are members of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Albania and 10 are from the Kosovo Security Force.

At the opening ceremony, Defence Minister Ermal Nufi described professional military education as a direct investment in the future of the Armed Forces and in strengthening Albania’s defence capabilities.

“No military capability is stronger than the people who lead, operate and develop it. Therefore, investing in knowledge, professionalism and leadership is among the most important investments we can make in the security and defence of our country.” Minister Nufi said.

He described the participation of officers from Kosovo as further evidence of the growing cooperation between Albania and Kosovo in defence and security.

According to Minister Nufi, in a rapidly evolving security environment shaped by hybrid and asymmetric threats, technological developments and cybersecurity challenges the Armed Forces need leaders and officers who possess not only technical expertise, but also the ability to analyse, anticipate, cooperate and make decisions in complex situations.

“Professional military education is not a process that ends with a course or a diploma. It is an integral part of developing our defence capabilities.” Minister Nufi emphasised.

The Defence Minister also highlighted the importance of consolidating the Defence and Security College as a centre of excellence for professional military education, supporting the transformation of the Armed Forces, greater professionalism and enhanced interoperability with Allies.

In this regard, Minister Nufi emphasised cooperation with Allied and partner countries through international lecturers and experts, exchanges of experience, and the incorporation of best practices in hybrid threats, cyber defence, operational planning, leadership and military transformation.

Another step in this direction is the planned launch of the Advanced Course on Security and Defence in March next year, with increased participation from countries in the region, NATO Allies and partners beyond the Alliance.

“Our ambition is not simply to be part of the Alliance. Our ambition is to become an increasingly capable and prepared Ally and an ever-stronger contributor to collective security and the response to shared challenges.” Minister Nufi stated.

Addressing the 75 course participants, the Minister stressed that their responsibility extends beyond completing a programme of study, as professional development is directly linked to their ability to lead, make decisions and assume responsibility in service to their country.

“In uniform, professionalism means responsibility; leadership means setting an example; and knowledge reaches its full value only when placed at the service of the country.” Minister Nufi said.

The ceremony was attended by Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Arben Kingji; Commander of the Defence and Security College, Brigadier General Altin Kurti; Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to Albania, Skënder Durmishi; commanders, faculty members, instructors and other guests.