PRESS RELEASE
Governor Sejko: Address at the graduation ceremony of the economics graduates, European University of Tirana

Honourable Prof. Xhepa,

Distinguished members of the faculty,

Most importantly dear students,

It is a pleasure to return to the European University of Tirana to join you in celebrating this graduation ceremony. I am honoured to address you on this special occasion. Education is the greatest investment that an individual can aim for and achieve in life. Knowledge is the most powerful weapon on life’s journey. Therefore, I tell you that you have won a decisive battle for your future and professional career. It is a personal achievement that gives every reason to feel proud and fulfilled. I congratulate you wholeheartedly! I am also delighted to see this hall so full. This reflects the university’s continued growth and the determination of our young people to follow the path of knowledge, personal development and lifelong growth.

As of today, you join the great army of professionals. It is, of course, a defining milestone in the life of every person. Embark on this long journey with courage, determination and perseverance. Wherever your career takes, and at every moment of your professional journey, remain true to yourself and strive to enrich your work with the valuable knowledge you have acquired. The Albanian economy and our labour market need you- your knowledge, your skills, your dedication, and your vision. I hope that, in addition to these, you will not hesitate to bring among us the energy, enthusiasm, sincerity and originality that characterize you. Be guided by the idealism, pride and honesty that define you. Express your opinions, pursue your goals with determination, and remain committed to what you believe in and what motivates you. Institutions and markets require experts who can analyse data, leverage technology, understand artificial intelligence, manage cyber risks and make decisions based on advanced analysis. The banks of the future will not only be financial institutions; they will also be technology-driven institutions. Change and adaptation are the dynamics that define the times we live in. You are entering the job market at an extraordinary moment. Artificial intelligence and the digitalization of life and work processes are driving a revolution that is transforming every dimension of our lives. We are still in the early stages of this transformation, and it is therefore difficult to predict how these technologies will evolve, how they will reshape way we work, and how they will redefine our professional lives. What we do know is that we cannot afford to be left behind! Hence, I invite you to embrace this revolution but be mindful not to get lost in it. Do not allow it to replace you, nor let it lead you toward the mediocrity of routine or the temporary comfort of complacency. On the contrary, embrace artificial intelligence, digitalization and every emerging technology as powerful tools to enhance productivity, strengthen your values ​​and amplify your original voice.

The Bank of Albania also seeks professionals who know how to combine economic know-how with analytical skill, technological expertise and a willingness to learn continuously. I would like to congratulate the European University of Tirana for its important contribution to the progress of the Albanian higher education. Your successful 20-year journey has not only prepared and graduated capable professionals for the domestic and international market, including company and corporate leaders, but has also brought a new model of education built on strong cooperation with industry and the labour market. This cooperation is fundamental in designing curricula and preparing students with the practical skills required by the labour market. Educational programs that combine finance with technology place you at the forefront of innovation in the banking sector; at the same time, the research studies and policy papers produced under the UET logo, reflecting the expertise of academics and economics experts, are widely recognized and contribute meaningfully to public decision-making and the development of Albanian society. And this gives value to the cooperation with you.

Our philosophy sees academia and universities as essential partners in the exchange of ideas, the discussion of the scientific research findings and projections on the economy, finance and the banking system, helping us anticipate the developments ahead. These dimensions distinguish the European University of Tirana since its establishment. This cooperation is also important for identifying the next generations of young researchers, analysts and finance professionals. Our doors are open to talented students and dedicated professionals. There are many ways to reach us or the banking system. Applications for advertised positions, work internships, collaborations and participation in our scientific and educational activities introduce you to the Bank of Albania. Today, I would like to draw your attention to the “Governor’s Award for the Best Diploma”, an initiative through which the Bank of Albania recognizes and supports the best diploma theses prepared by students of Economics, Finance, Management, and Business Administration. Over the years, students from your university have been among the winners. They are now part of the staff of the Bank of Albania. I encourage you to apply for this year’s competition.

In conclusion, I would like to remind you that the daily realities of professional life will inevitably present difficult moments and complex challenges. Do not let them discourage you; face them with courage and determination. If I may offer one piece of advice: do not walk your professional journey alone. On the contrary, support each other and appreciate those who have cared for you and those who will continue to care for you. Cooperation will help you share the lessons that difficult moments teach us and the joy that comes with success. Join and contribute to your professional networks; and if you do not find them, create them and strengthen them with your values. Look ahead, give others a reason to believe in you, and join every visionary project that inspires love, prosperity, integrity, and human understanding. Only through this path will we build a healthier society and a more developed country, where the common economic and social well-being remains our highest priority.

Congratulations!