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"Rauf Fico" Memorial Scholarship, honoring heritage and diplomacy with a human face
2025-03-14 11:43:35 / JETË
Some people leave behind titles, others leave behind a legacy that continues to inspire. The newly established Rauf Fico Memorial Scholarship at the American University in Bulgaria (AUBG), which offers two grants of 5,000 euros each, honors the early 20th-century Albanian diplomat and politician, who influenced fields such as education, humanism, and social justice.
This scholarship was created by Edlira Dashi, a distinguished Albanian AUBG alumna ('10), who aims to perpetuate the values and contributions of Rauf Fico.
" Fico was not only a diplomat, but also a humanist, an educator and a man who used his influence to help others. In times of crisis, he chose courage. This scholarship is for students who will do the same, " said Dashi.
“ AUBG has always been more than an educational institution, it is a space where people are formed who think critically, lead courageously, and support causes greater than themselves. This scholarship is not just a tribute to Fico's past, but an inspiration for the future. ”
scholarships
The "Rauf Fico" Memorial Scholarship is open to current AUBG students. Two students will benefit from 5,000 euros each for the 2025-2026 academic year. The selection of beneficiaries will be made by AUBG, based on academic merit and their compatibility with Fico's values: empathy, leadership and community service.
This scholarship aims to support students who embody the principles that guided Rauf Fico throughout his life, those who strive to bring about a significant change in the world. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their commitment to community engagement, social justice, and humanitarian efforts in their application essay.
Diplomat and Humanist
Rauf Fico was born in 1881 in Sanaa, Yemen, to a prominent Albanian family from Gjirokastra. He received his education in Shkodra, Vienna, and the Mekteb-i Mülkiye, beginning his political career in 1912 as an advisor to the Ministry of Interior in the government of Ismail Qemali.
Fico was involved early in Albania's political and social development, co-founding the first public orphanage in Tirana in 1917, which provided shelter and education for orphaned children. He also played a key role in the Congress of Tirana and the Congress of Durrës in 1918, helping to defend Albania's sovereignty after World War I.
His career continued with important posts as Minister of the Interior in 1921 and MP for Durrës. Despite his opposition to the Italian fascist regime, which forced him to resign from the position of Foreign Minister in 1930, he continued to engage in diplomacy, holding important posts in Turkey, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Greece and Germany.
One of his most important acts was the assistance provided to save Jews during the Holocaust, ensuring their removal from German territory. Even after being interned in Italy during the fascist occupation of Albania, Fico did not retreat from his commitment to justice and humanity. He passed away in 1944, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the boundaries of politics and embodies courage and commitment to humanity.
During his lifetime, Fico was honored with numerous prestigious awards, including:
-Grand Cordon of the Order of Franz Joseph
-Order of Leopold
-Officer of the French Legion of Honor
-The Palme d'Or of the French Academy
-Order of King Boris of Bulgaria
-Doctor Honoris Causa from the Academy of Naples
An Eternal Legacy
Rauf Fico's legacy remains not only in the history books, but also in the hearts of his descendants.
" For us, Rauf Fico was not just a public figure; he was a moral compass. His belief in education and justice shaped entire generations, and through this scholarship, he will continue to influence many others ," said his grandson, Neli Demi.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Albania, Igli Hasani, has also praised Fico's contribution, emphasizing that his influence remains important for today's generations.
“ Rauf Fico was a distinguished statesman, politician and diplomat, who served Albania since its declaration of independence. He was part of the first independent government of Albania in 1912 and played an essential role in the consolidation of the Albanian state. In his extraordinary career, he held key positions as Minister of Internal Affairs and Minister of Foreign Affairs, passionately defending Albania’s interests in the international arena. This scholarship is a fitting tribute to a man who embodied the principles of integrity, dedication and patriotism. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of leaders who will uphold these timeless values, ” said Hasani.
Applications are open until March 20th.
Students interested in the "Rauf Fico" Memorial Scholarship can apply until March 20, 2025. For more information on application criteria and how to apply, visit the official website of the American University in Bulgaria.
This scholarship is more than financial aid—it is an opportunity to follow the example of a man who used knowledge, courage, and honesty to make a tangible difference in the world.
Translated by Alfapress.al/ Taken from https://www.aubg.edu/
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