Shkollës

Shkollës is the Albanian term used to denote a school, an institution where formal education is provided by teachers to students. The base noun shkollë means school; shkollës is the definite/genitive form used in phrases such as programi i shkollës (the school’s program) or infrastruktura e shkollës (the school’s facilities). The word is widely understood to refer to educational institutions at various levels and to the practice of schooling itself.

Etymology and usage: The Albanian shkollë is derived from the historical development of the term schola from Latin, passing into Albanian through long-standing linguistic contact. Related terms include shkollim (education) and shkollor (educational). Shkollës appears in grammatical constructions to indicate possession or specificity, while shkollat is the plural form referring to multiple schools.

Structure and levels: In Albania, the education system generally comprises preschool, primary education (shkolla fillore), and secondary education (shkolla e mesme). Secondary education includes gymnasium (gjimnaz) and professional or vocational schools (shkollat profesionale). Higher education is provided by universities (universitete). Both public and private institutions operate within the system, and curricula are designed to prepare students for further study or entry into the labor market.

History and reform: Modern Albanian schooling was organized in the 20th century, with significant development during the communist era and subsequent reforms after 1990 to broaden access, introduce private providers, and align curricula with European standards. Ongoing reforms emphasize curriculum modernization, teacher training, and digital infrastructure.

See also: Education in Albania; Albanian language.