Skopje, August 26, 2025 – On the occasion of the 115. anniversary of the birth of Gonxhe Bojaxhiu – Mother Teresa, the Mother Teresa University in Skopje, in collaboration with the Institute for Spiritual and Cultural Heritage of Albanians in Skopje, hosted a panel discussion entitled: “Mother Teresa and Her Legacy.”
The panel featured Lecturer Bekim Fetaji, Ph.D., Rector of MTU; Besnik Emini, Ph.D., Acting Director of the Institute for Spiritual and Cultural Heritage of Albanians; and Lecturer Rizvan Sulejmani, Ph.D., who was also the moderator.
In his address, the Rector of MTU, Lecturer Bekim Fetaji, Ph.D., highlighted that “Mother Teresa exemplified how spiritual values can be transformed into tangible actions that reshape reality. She teaches us that humanism is not an unattainable ideal but a daily practice. As an institution of higher education, we are committed to embedding this spirit within our educational and scientific programs, research initiatives, and student training, ensuring that all acquired knowledge serves as a tool for improving the lives of individuals and society at large.”
The Rector, Lecturer Bekim Fetaji, Ph.D., further stated that “commemorating Mother Teresa is not merely a ceremonial act yet a call for reflection and action. As an academic community, we must look beyond classrooms and laboratories to recognize that knowledge holds value only when applied by humanity. Our dedication is to cultivate students not only successful professionals yet also responsible citizens, guided by ethics and compassion, embodying the very principles Mother Teresa taught.”
Besnik Emini, Ph.D., Acting Director of the Institute for Spiritual and Cultural Heritage of Albanians in Skopje, underscored the importance of preserving and promoting the cultural and spiritual heritage of both the Albanian and global communities. He emphasized the critical role academic institutions play in shaping civic and cultural consciousness. Mr. Emini outlined the Institute’s activities and research projects conducted over the years, including studies on the life, work, and impact of Mother Teresa, scholarly publications, and the organization of educational and cultural events for students and the broader community.
Mr. Emini also noted that “the mission of the Institute is not only to document and preserve cultural and spiritual heritage but to keep this legacy vibrant and accessible for younger generations. By honoring Mother Teresa’s legacy, we do not simply commemorate a universal icon of humanism; we also inspire the academic community and society to foster a more just and compassionate world.”
Lecturer Rizvan Sulejmani, Ph.D., remarked that “today, we gather to celebrate the birth of Gonxha Bojaxhiu – Mother Teresa, a figure who belongs not only to our nation but to all humanity. Reflecting on her life and legacy invites us to contemplate a person who bridged the contradictions between materialism and spirituality, selfishness and altruism, offering the highest example of human equilibrium.”
Lecturer Rizvan Sulejmani, Ph.D., further emphasized that “in a world marked by selfishness, hunger, and social injustice, Mother Teresa’s message is more relevant than ever. She teaches us that universal love and compassion are our most powerful tools in confronting the challenges of our era. As members of the university that bears her name, we bear a moral and academic responsibility to preserve and transmit this legacy to future generations.”
The panel discussion was attended by academic and administrative staff, as well as students, all of whom engaged in an inspiring dialogue on the legacy of Mother Teresa – a spirit that continues to inspire generations to live with humility, love, and aid to others.
