Development of Education in Elbasan Prefecture (Albania) in 1928-1939

The purpose of the research paper is to analyze the development of education in Elbasan Prefecture in 1928-1939, to determine the general condition of schools and their number, teaching staff, class attendance, etc., as well as to show problems and achievements in the field of education. The scientific novelty. This issue has not been considered in the current historiography, which made it possible for the first time to describe in detail the educational situation in the Prefecture by level of education and geographical distribution. Conclusions. Even though Elbasan was one of the most developed regions of Albania, the illiteracy rate in the early 20th century reached 90% of the population. During 1920-1928, the government took some steps to improve the situation in the field of education but they were insignificant, which was determined by the historical and political situation, economic problems, social bigotry, and the patriarchal way of life of an average family. In 1928-1939, the Albanian government intensified its educational policy, which manifested itself in the following steps: establishing an educational structure with a solid foundation for primary and secondary education; training of teaching staff; improving school curricula at each level of education; improving school infrastructure; conducting and implementing an awareness-raising policy in the country to include a female element in education, etc. The support of the local government, volunteerism, and charity of the wealthy families of Elbasan became important supporting factors in the development of education, which was confirmed by the donations of buildings for educational and cultural needs, financial support, and voluntary help of the residents of Elbasan in the construction of educational and cultural institutions. Strong support for education in the Prefecture was provided by local intellectuals who graduated from schools in Western Europe and beyond. They made an important contribution both to introducing of a new liberating spirit into the country and to adapting of school curricula to the needs of the country and the Albanian tradition, using the best experience of countries such as Austria, Italy, and others.