STRENGTHENING THE LINK BETWEEN PRE-UNIVERSITY EDUCATION AND HIGHER EDUCATION IN ALBANIA: STRATEGIC APPROACHES AND GOOD PRACTICES

Abstract

The transition from pre-university to higher education is a critical phase that shapes students’ academic success and long-term development. In Albania, bridging this gap is essential for creating a more coherent, inclusive, and responsive education system. Among the most promising strategies are those that focus on building concrete bridges of cooperation between secondary schools and higher education institutions. Formal cooperation agreements and joint initiatives between these institutions significantly improve students’ awareness of academic pathways and career opportunities. Likewise, regular collaborative activities—such as co-designed workshops, mentoring programs, and shared academic projects—not only enhance mutual understanding of curricular expectations but also contribute to smoother student transitions. To support these efforts, adopting a benchmarking approach—drawing on successful models from comparable countries—can provide practical direction. The centers are jointly supported by schools, universities, and local authorities, and play a vital role in aligning educational pathways with labor market needs and higher education demands. This paper explores these strategic approaches and highlights good practices that foster alignment between competencies, programs, and institutional cultures. By reinforcing these links, Albania can enhance student preparedness, reduce dropout rates, and foster a more integrated academic journey for future generations.