250 candidates for active-duty soldiers and sailors begin Basic Individual Training

Published: Monday, 26 October 2026 14:14

 A total of 250 candidates for active-duty soldiers and sailors, including 28 women, begin Basic Individual Training today, taking their first step towards a military career in the Armed Forces of the Republic of Albania.

At the ceremony marking the departure of the contingent, held at the “Skënderbej” Garrison in Tirana, Defence Minister Mr Ermal Nufi, commended the young candidates for their decision to join the Armed Forces, emphasising that choosing to serve the Homeland requires courage, dedication and a willingness to face challenges.

“It is a special honour for me to be here today at this ceremony, where 250 young men and women, among the best our Homeland has to offer, have decided to join the Armed Forces. This is not an easy decision. You will face many challenges, and once you have overcome them, you will be proud of yourselves.” - Minister Nufi stated.

Defence Minister emphasised that beyond the challenges and sacrifices required by this profession, military service brings a unique sense of professional and personal fulfilment.

“The pride, joy and professional and personal satisfaction you will experience from serving the Homeland are what will accompany you throughout your lives.” - he stressed.

The Chief of the General Staff of the Albanian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Arben Kingji, also attended the ceremony.

Basic Individual Training will take place from 26 October 2026 to 8 January 2027 at the training centres in Poshnje (Berat), Vau i Dejës and Zall-Herr (Special Operations Regiment, Tirana).

During this period, recruits will acquire basic military knowledge and skills while further developing their discipline, self-confidence, professional preparedness and ability to operate as part of a team.