📍 International Scientific Conference | Faculty of Foreign Languages – University of Tirana

On April 29, 2026, the Faculty of Foreign Languages at the University of Tirana hosted the International Scientific Conference on the topic:
“Distinct Tangible and Intangible Heritage of Albania Offered to Domestic and Foreign Tourists”

The conference was organized within the framework of the PTI project funded by the National Agency for Research and Innovation and Elite Travel Group:
“Sustainable tourism development and multilingual digital marketing through the ‘Albania 365’ platform”, coordinated by Dr. Drita Rira.

Held in the “Europe” Hall, the event brought together academics, researchers, tourism professionals, students, and other participants, creating a meaningful space for scientific dialogue and the exchange of experiences on the promotion of Albanian heritage and the advancement of sustainable tourism.

The conference welcomed distinguished guests, including:

Dr. Marsela Robo – Director of the National Agency for Scientific Research and Innovation (AKKSHI)

Mr. Elvis Kotherja – Executive Director of “Elite Travel Group” and Chair of the Tourism and Hospitality Committee at the American Chamber of Commerce in Albania

Prof. Enrico Lusso – Head of the Study Program in Languages and Cultures for Tourism, University of Turin, Italy

🔹 In her address, the Dean of the Faculty of Foreign Languages, Prof. Dr. Esmeralda Kromidha, underlined the faculty’s key role in preparing professionals with strong linguistic and intercultural competences, positioning it as a bridge between academia, public institutions, and the private sector. She also presented concrete cooperation initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable and innovative tourism development in Albania.

🔹 Dr. Marsela Robo emphasized the importance of supporting research projects that connect innovation with strategic sectors such as tourism, encouraging the application of technology and new approaches to the promotion of Albania.

🔹 Mr. Elvis Kotherja, keynote speaker, delivered a presentation entitled “From heritage to tourist experience: The role of the industry in the sustainable development of tourism in Albania”, highlighting the importance of close collaboration between universities and the business sector as a mutually beneficial model and a key mechanism for aligning academic training with real market needs.

🔹 Prof. Enrico Lusso, also a keynote speaker, presented “Cultural heritage and tourism valorization: The Italian experience between practices, challenges, and alternative models”, offering valuable insights from the Italian context on cultural heritage management, current challenges, and alternative approaches to tourism development.

The conference featured high-level scientific contributions, productive discussions, and innovative perspectives on the international promotion of Albania’s tangible and intangible heritage. It further strengthened academic cooperation and highlighted the growing need for professionals in foreign language communication, as well as advanced training within the “Master of Science in Intercultural and Trilingual Tourism Communication” program offered by the Faculty of Foreign Languages, University of Tirana, in support of sustainable tourism development and multilingual digital marketing.

🙏 We extend our sincere gratitude to all participants, speakers, and partners for their valuable contribution to the successful realization of this scientific and promotional event.