TIRANA, DECEMBER 22, 2011     Ambassador Arvizu delivered remarks and congratulated students at Thursday’s graduation ceremony at the Rectorate of Tirana University in Tirana.  The School has made important contributions to improving Albania’s justice sector, providing initial and continuous education for Albanian magistrates (judges and prosecutors). To date, 133 judges and 99 prosecutors have graduated from the School.

"Today, we are celebrating the accomplishments of fourteen students, a select group of judges and prosecutors, who will preside over the future of Albania’s justice sector for a generation," said Ambassador Arvizu.  "To you -- the graduates before me today – your countrymen and the international community hold high expectations for you:  that you will become leaders for reform, that you will become models of ethical professional conduct, that your decisions and actions will be help guide Albania’s success."

The United States has supported the school for many years through both USAID and OPDAT programs.  USAID is currently working with the School’s students to establish a database of searchable court decisions and international conventions that will benefit prosecutors, lawyers, judges and other legal professionals.  The program is part of USAID’s strategy to support access to quality legal education and research.  OPDAT also funds training on topics that include financial investigation techniques, trial advocacy skills, and assistance to victims and witnesses. 

The graduates appreciated receiving their diplomas and congratulations from the Ambassador.