About Us
Working since 2016 for the academic and professional advancement of Roma and Egyptian communities in Albania.
The Roma Versitas Albania (RVA) Association is an Albanian legal person, registered by Decision No. 5347 of the Tirana Judicial District Court, dated 30.05.2016. It carries out its activity in accordance with Albanian legislation in force, including Articles 39–53/1 of the Civil Code and Laws No. 8788 and 8789 of 7.5.2001, as well as its statute.
RVA focuses on the academic and professional advancement of Roma and Egyptian students and communities, and on supporting their employment. As an organisation committed to equality, non-discrimination and human rights, RVA applies high ethical and legal standards in all aspects of its functioning.
Strategic milestones
Roma Versitas Albania focuses on three core milestones — Education, Employment and Participation — pursued through four strategic actions.
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Enhancing educational outcomes
Increase the capacity of Roma students, graduation rates and tertiary enrolment; improve leadership and advocacy skills; integrate professionalism into university students for future careers.
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Improving employment opportunities
Increase employment of Roma graduates through advocacy toward EU and government institutions.
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Promoting participation in public administration
Increase participation of educated Roma in public administration, and support service improvements in deprived communities through advocacy.
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Building a network of Roma professionals and leaders
Build a network of Roma professionals, intellectuals and leaders, and encourage active contribution at local, national and international levels.
The four pillars
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Pillar 1
Education
Support at every stage — from a child's first year of school to postgraduate study.
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Pillar 4
Social Inclusion
Legal advocacy and cultural work against the prejudice that holds exclusion in place.
History
- 2014 The RomaVersitas Programme begins supporting Roma students in tertiary education.
- 2016 Roma Versitas Albania is registered by Decision No. 5347 of the Tirana Judicial District Court, 30.05.2016.
- 2016 The Internship Scheme launches with UNDP/EU support under the ESERE initiative.
- 2018 The REF/EU Regional Action for Roma Education begins — SEC-ALB and TER-ALB.
- 2024 Compass human rights education course delivered with the Council of Europe.
- 2025 RVA commissions its own policy study on Roma secondary and vocational education.
Note: activity from 2014 predates formal registration in 2016. The founding narrative is being confirmed with the Advisory Board.