"Haxhi Zeka" University in Peja marked today the 14th anniversary of its founding with a special ceremony, which was attended by university leaders, academic and administrative staff, students and guests.
The ceremony was enriched with a deeply emotional speech by the Rector of the University, Prof. Dr. Armand Krasniqi, who returned to the roots of the founding of UHZ, to the difficulties of the first years and the extraordinary efforts that were made to establish a university in Peja. He remembered with respect and gratitude the visionary people who believed in this project long before it became a reality — professors, intellectuals, numerous contributors and supporters, some of whom, as he said with pain, are no longer among us, but have left an indelible mark on the history of the university.
The Rector emphasized that “Haxhi Zeka” University was built on idealism, sacrifice and by people who strongly believed that Peja deserved a center of knowledge and academic culture. He humbly thanked all those who contributed over the years to the establishment, consolidation and development of the institution, describing this journey as a story of dedication and love for education.
His heartfelt message was warmly applauded by those present, reflecting the community's strong emotional connection to this institution and to all those who made UHZ's 14-year journey possible.
The event was followed by a speech by the Vice-Rector for Teaching, Student Affairs and Scientific Research, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Alma Shehu-Lokaj, who presented the historical journey of higher education in Peja – from the beginnings of the Higher School of Economics and Commerce in 1960, to the establishment of “Haxhi Zeka” University on November 14, 2011 and its development into a modern institution with an important role in Kosovo.
Next, the representative of the Student Parliament delivered a speech on behalf of the students of UHZ, conveying gratitude and motivational messages for the future, emphasizing that “Haxhi Zeka” University is their home of knowledge, the place where they are formed not only academically, but also as active and responsible citizens. He also expressed his belief that their journey at this university will continue to be built on values, dedication and mutual respect, thanking the academic and administrative staff for their continued support.
During the ceremony, the University awarded institutional recognition for professional contributions to its strategic projects, including the Business Incubator project, and recognition for worthy representation of the Faculty of Arts in the national and international arena, to the former dean of this unit, Prof. Dr. Hysen Nimani.
The ceremony was enriched with musical performances by students of the Faculty of Arts, which gave the event a festive and cultural atmosphere.
