In a significant development for the Albanian community in America, a new Albanian language school, “Fol Shqip,” has opened its doors in Queens, New York. This initiative offers Albanian children in the diaspora an excellent opportunity to learn their mother tongue, culture, and national historical heritage.
“Fol Shqip” joins a number of other Albanian schools in America, marking the successful culmination of a patriotic effort by activists of the “Besi” association and their friends. Their aim is to preserve the Albanian language, history, and national identity among Albanians in America. Mirsad Hasani, the Chair of the Executive Council of the “Besi” Association, expressed his emotions about the opening day. The event was attended by parents, children, and members of the Besian community living in New York, as well as Albanians from various ethnic regions. Edin Gjoni, the honored Imam at the Albanian-American Mosque in Glendale, Queens, delivered an emotional and powerful opening speech.
The school’s curriculum, according to Hasani, will initially focus on teaching the language to most children and strengthening it in others, before introducing additional subjects. Classes are currently scheduled for Sundays, and the teaching staff comprises highly skilled professionals. Educational materials will be sourced from the Ministry of Education of Albania, and the school will also offer professional dance classes.
The “Besi” Association, the founder of “Fol Shqip,” plays a significant role in educational and community activities in New York and as far as Montenegro. Hasani elaborated on the association’s history and activities, highlighting its creation from the need for continued leadership in the Albanian community’s struggle for survival in Montenegro. The association, established on February 18, 2023, received overwhelming support from the community and has achieved the milestone of opening the “Fol Shqip” school within a year.
Mirsad Hasani, born in 1975 in Besa, Tivari Municipality, Montenegro, shared his life journey, including his emigration during the Yugoslav wars in 1992 and his active participation in the struggle for Kosovo’s independence. His commitment to the Albanian community continues through the “Besi” Association, aiming to proudly uphold the Albanian flag and cultural identity in America. Hasani and the “Besi” Association’s leadership team are commended for their efforts, which have been instrumental in this significant achievement for the Albanian diaspora.
