In recognition of the successful accomplishment of LEAD Albania Program, 8 Fellows were graduated on November 17th, 2021. The graduation ceremony took place in the premises of the Palace of Congresses in the Albanology Hall. The new 9th cohort of LEAD Albania Program was introduced during this event. Chairman of the Board of Albanian-American Development Foundation (ADDF), Mr. Michael D. Granoff, Her Excellency, the Ambassador of the United States, Ms. Yuri Kim, Representative of the Government of Albania, the Minister of Education and Sport, Ms. Evis Kushi, shared their messages with the graduating and new Fellows, LEAD Albania Alumni and representatives of the Host Institutions and other attendees. AADF honored the Municipality of Tirana with the “Host Institution of the Year Award” in recognition of the excellent collaboration for LEAD Albania Program. At present, 5 LEAD Alumni are part of Tirana Municipality staff in leading roles and 1 new Fellow from the 9th Cohort will serve as the advisor of the Mayor.
The newly announced fellows that will serve a one-year fellowship as advisers in the staffs of the highest government officials are:
Alba Brojka in the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs,
Donjet Gjoka in the Office of the Chief-Negotiator for Accession of the Republic of Albania to EU,
Edlira Osmani in the Office of the High Inspector of Justice,
Eno Muja in the High Judicial Council,
Entela Çeliku in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development,
Erblina Shehu in the Ministry of Finance and Economy,
Fatri Morina in the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy,
Joana Dhiamandi in the Ministry of Culture,
Kreshnik Skenderi in the Municipality of Tirana,
Ornela Bardhi in the Ministry of Health and Social Protection
Tedi Dobi in the Prime Minister’s Office.