It was a significant day as 39 new Peace Corps volunteers were sworn in for their service in Albania. The ceremony saw the presence of various dignitaries, including Minister Manastirliu, alongside families and partners. The event marked the beginning of the volunteers' service aimed at fostering relationships and stability within Albanian communities.
The Peace Corps representative expressed gratitude towards the Minister and her team at the Ministry of Education and Sport for their support. He also thanked teachers, local counterparts, government partners and host families for their role in welcoming and preparing the volunteers.
The host families were lauded for their hospitality, which was emphasized as vital for the success of the Peace Corps in Albania. The representative voiced admiration for the hospitality and beauty of Albania. He reinforced the importance of the volunteers' work, stating, "You’re doing some of the most important work that one can do on behalf of the American people."
The longstanding tradition of service by the Peace Corps, which has over 240,000 volunteers globally, continues with the new inductees in Albania. These volunteers are expected to promote entrepreneurship, empower local communities, and enhance economic stability, thereby creating opportunities for both Albania and the United States.
Skills acquired during their service, such as leadership, technical expertise, and cultural understanding, were highlighted as beneficial upon their return to the United States. The event underscored that the volunteers represent "the very best of America" and their work would strengthen the ties between the United States and Albania in the coming years.
The ceremony ended with the administration of the oath of service to the new volunteers, marking the beginning of their mission in Albania.