External Evaluation Report Universiteti Kristal...

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External Evaluation Report

Universiteti Kristal

INTRODUCTION

Kristal University was founded in 2005 through the individual enterprise of Mr. Ahmet

Muçaj, President and CEO of Kristal Inc., and he has invested in the area of education. The

existing educational system at the time, made it necessary for such important private

initiatives in the area of education. In 2005, the University was established as a private

institution of higher education. The Kristal University has expanded its campuses in Fier,

Korce and Kukes. The University has a consolidated and structured campus with the study

areas of: Medicine, Jurisprudence, Economics, Engineering, Social Sciences and the Arts.

MEMBERS OF EXTERNAL EVALUATION GROUP (EEG)

1. Jana Möhren, ASIIN, Germany

2. Adela Shera, University of Tirana, Albania

INSTITUTION, ITS MANAGEMENT, ACCORDING TO THE MISSION OF THE INSTITUTION

1. Mission and objectives of a Higher Education

Description part

The Non-Public Institution of Higher Education “KRISTAL” University is a Non-Public

Institution of Higher Education oriented to teaching and research, established by the

Decision of Council of the Ministers No. 761, dated 6/12/2005, and founded by KRISTAL

Company.

The Kristal University is a non-Public University, Tirana, which includes:

Faculty of Business Administration, with the majors of Finance, Business

Management, with 3 academic years each.

Faculty of Law, with the major of Law, with 3 academic years.

Faculty of Pharmacy and Dentistry, with the branches of Pharmacy (3 academic

years), Dentistry (5 academic years).

Faculty of Political Sciences, with majors of International Relations, Communication

Sciences and Public Administration, with 3 academic years each.

Faculty of Electronics, with the majors of Electronics, Information Technology and

Informatics, with 3 academic years each.

Faculty of Nursing with the major of Nursing (3.5 academic years).

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The period of study courses is divided in study cycles. The study system will be conducted

on a full time basis. Each course of studies is completed by a formation exam or defense of

diploma thesis. The financial expenses are afforded by “Kristal” Company.

In 2009, on opening of new first cycle study programs for the First Cycle, Second Cycle and

“Master of First Level” at Kristal University and the Decision of Council of Ministers No. 907,

dated 26/8/2009 “On opening of new study programs”, established the opening of the

following study programs:

First Cycle Study Programs in:

Public Health

Health Laboratory Technician

Sociology.

Second Cycle Study Programs, in:

Civil Law

International Relations

First Cycle Study Programs in:

Electronics Engineering

Informatics engineering

Information Technology Engineering

Second Cycle Study Programs in:

Public Health and Hospital Management.

“KRISTAL” University exercises its activity in 4 campuses in Tirana, Kukës, Korçë, Fier, and

some university units. Kristal University offers 3-year study programs for the “Bachelor”

diploma (180 credits); 2 -year study programs for the “Master of Science” diploma (180

credits); and 1.1/2 years for the “Master of Professional Studies” diploma (90 credits). The

institution realizes the teaching process with the full time and part time professors but they

have other guest lecturers from countries such as Italy, England, USA, Germany, Greece,

Turkey etc.

“Kristal University” has the following mission, purposes and objectives:

To develop professionally students as senior specialists through teaching, capable to

face the present challenges.

To carry out scientific studies in the fields it covers, of national interest both in the

field of education and life practice.

To develop young scientists through the extensive efforts of Kristal University

academic staff and individual work of the young lecturers and students.

To perform the continuous qualification of the University academic staff, thus

contributing to the academic, scientific and cultural life of Albania.

To expand its activity all over the territory of Albania and abroad, in view of the

cooperation and exchange of academic and scientific experience.

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Modernization of teaching methodologies and procedures and testing of knowledge,

guidance of diploma thesis of 3 cycles of studies, projects etc., preparation of

didactic materials through information technologies and continuous improvement of

the relationship between lecturers and students.

To strengthen the University autonomy in educational and scientific fields, according

to the law and in harmony with its mission and capacities.

To offer study programs that are qualitative, sustainable and comparable with the

European educational systems of higher education.

A goal of Kristal University is the alignment as one of the best Universities in Albania due to

the activity of academic and supporting staff.

Teaching is developed in accordance with the teaching plans and curricula approved by the

academic structures of the University, according to the Bologna Charter and criteria set by

the Ministry of Education and Science. The scientific research is oriented to the academic

staff qualification and emerging issues or challenges of the social and economic life of the

country.

Kristal University is an Institution with academic freedom in teaching and scientific

research, institutional autonomy in its management, respecting the diversity of opinions

and ideas, free and critical performance of teaching and scientific research. This academic

freedom is exercised in accordance with the University teaching plans and curricula.

Kristal University has the right to establish cooperation relations with its counterpart

institutions in Albania and abroad, membership in national and international higher

education organizations, and with foundations in Albania and abroad, supporting the

development of Higher Education. Also, Kristal University is entitled to modalities for the

admission of new students and selection of the academic and administrative staff. The

whole working activity of “KRISTAL” University is based on the academic standards

established by the Ministry of Education and Science, Accreditation Council, and the

respective legislation. According to these principles, Kristal University carries out the

internal assessment of the quality of teaching, scientific and administrative work.

All these internal University units perform their job tasks in conformity with the Statute of

Kristal University.

Additionally, the Student Government is another operational structure at Kristal University.

It represents an organization, which is independent from the academic staff, University

directors, religious and political beliefs or regional ethnicity. The activity of this government

is regulated by the Statute and its regulations. The mid-term strategy of Kristal University

involves the expansion of relations with other Universities and counterpart institutions, and

meeting conditions to open the Third Cycle of Studies in awarding the scientific degree of

“PhD” and aligning Kristal University to the top list of qualitative Universities in Albania. The

long-term strategy aims at the implementation of joint projects with educational and

scientific research institutions of interest to the Albanian society and economy, in Albania

and abroad.

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Relevant documents, taken during visits to the institution

Evaluation according to the Standards

Standards/criterion Evaluation according to standards/

criterions1

CHAPTER III: INSTITUTION MANAGEMENT FOR FULFILLING ITS MISSION Standard I.5 - Institution establishes a development strategy.

Criterion 1 Institution's development strategy is discussed widely by its management bodies and authorities; Criterion 2 Institution's development strategy sets appropriate objectives and means to achieve expected outcomes Criterion 3 Institution's strategy is drafted in accordance with its mission and purpose.

The development strategy of the institution is described by its

authorities and they have analysed it

in a specialized group of the

management bodies. Also they have

a draft of the development strategy of the institution.

The objectives are clearly defined in

the draft report. The directors of the

institution, the Rector, Deans etc

states that the institution has

specific objectives which are important for the development of the

institution.

The institution development strategy

is in accordance with the mission

and purpose of this institution.

Standard II.1: Institution establishes appropriate structures to accomplish its mission and purpose.

Criterion 1 Higher education institution has autonomy and academic freedom, under the law in force; Criterion 2 Autonomy and academic freedom help to accomplish the institution's mission and purpose;

Kristal University has academic

autonomy and freedom in conformity with the Law. The directors of the

institution states that the KU has full

autonomy and academic freedom

and they have an important

influence in its mission and scope of activities.

They are also mentioned in the

statutes of the KU.

I - OFFERED STUDY PROGRAMS Standard I.1 - Institution offers programs in accordance with its mission and infrastructure conditions.

Criterion 3 Institution has defined priority study programs to be offered and it has decided to create its profile with them;

The institution has been developing

different study programs and has

increased the number of the

programs offered in different fields of study. They are structured in relevant

study fields which they mentioned

with importance are the Faculty of

Medical Sciences, Faculty of Arts,

Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, and Faculty

of Economics.

Standard I. 3 - Study programs are offered in line with institution development strategy. Criterion 1 Academic offer of study programs is in accordance with all components of institution development strategy; Criterion 2 Requirements for students' qualification are described in objectives of institution development strategy; Criterion 3 Academic offer of study programs integrates coherently the information about diplomas issued at the completion of studies.

The students are informed of the type of

diplomas they award and the advantages they can have. The status

of the Kristal University clearly

defines and describes the students’

qualifications forms and types.

Further, the University has a career

1 EEG must writing for the fulfillment of each criterion / standard. At the end of their, need to write his opinions (summary), for fulfill

the standards

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office which attempts to give orientation and consultancy to the

students.

Standard I.4 - Study programs are offered in accordance with national and international objectives

Criterion 1 Institution pursues a clear policy to ensure coherence in study programs offered by central institution and its subsidiaries; Criterion 2 Institution designs its policy in the context of national policies (it is multidisciplinary, promoting reception of foreign cultures and learning foreign languages, etc.). Criterion 3 At the completion of interdisciplinary study programs a common diploma is issued by Albanian, European and/or international higher education institutions.

Kristal University has affiliated

branches in different cities and the

programs of different subjects

developed are the same in Tirana and

its affiliated branches, without any important differences.

Although the language of study

programs is Albanian, after having

completed the Master studies, the

students are asked to complete an

exam of English language at the respective level. Further, the Kristal

University has as an important

objective to open new master courses

in the English language so they want

to promote the studies in a foreign language.

Currently, after the completion of

studies, notwithstanding the forms of

cooperation, the students are

awarded only the diploma of Kristal

University.

III – PARTNERSHIP Standard III.1 - Institution conducts market research to accomplish its mission and purpose

Criterion 1 Institution is informed constantly about the economic regional development. Criterion 2 Institution monitors employment of its graduates; Criterion 3 Institution respects competition rules.

Based on the discussions with the students and the head of this

university, the institution with their

structures provides the useful

information to the students in their

study fields. Also they provide consultancy about the needs in the

labor market.

No relevant information

They take into consideration the

strong competition in the market.

Standard III.2 - Institution pursues an open strategy of collaboration and partnership in a regional, national and international level. Criterion 1 Institution determines its cooperation policy priorities; Criterion 2 Cooperation strategy is reflected in long-term strategy of institution development; Criterion 3 Institution takes into account the needs of local economy and labor market for opening new programs or drafting of scientific research projects;

Kristal University has focused mainly in the cooperation with other

Albanian and Foreign universities

and is an important policy and

strategy for the development of their

institution and also for the students.

The institution states that they will have other cooperation in the future

with foreign HEIs.

Due to the visit and the meetings

with the heads of the institution has

made a study market in which they have pointed out the main needs of

the society and they help the

students to take the right direction.

Kristal University wants to open new

branches and study programs which

they underlie market requirements for the duly qualified young

employees.

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VII - INFORMATION SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT Standard VII.4 - Institution provides storage, maintenance and development its academic, cultural and scientific heritage. Criterion 1 Institution pursues a policy of preserving the heritage of his academic cultural and scientific; Criterion 2 Institution pursues a policy of evaluation and development of its academic, cultural and scientific property; Criterion 3 Institution pursues a policy of maintenance and development of its academic, cultural and scientific property;

UK consolidates the heritage of his academic cultural and scientific;

Kristal University has a consolidated

campus and has been increasing the

buildings to make it a real University

campus, but also with the growing increase of academic staff both in

number and qualifications.

Further, due to the meetings with

persons responsible for the

administration of the institution

states that the KU has been working and investing in the development of

the academic life of the university

and intend to improve the cultural

and scientific property for exp they

have constructed a theatre, laboratories etc Also the professors

state that the KU has financed

several conferences and enabled

publications through the printing

house.

Conclusions of EEG: After analyzing all the necessary documents and realized meetings with the directors of this institution, it can be confirmed that Kristal University has a development strategy and in the

status where they defined the organization of the institution and the main objectives which are

very important to accomplish for the development of the institution. The institution has been

taking other investments in the campus area to ensure the students better study environment

and to help and improve the realization of the teaching process.

The standards are substantially fulfilled.

2. Organizational structure of HEI, its constituent units and its management

Description Part

Kristal University is composed of 5 main units (refer to the attached organisational

structure): Faculty of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Economics, Faculty of Law and Faculty of

Social Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Arts. The organisation and title of the

basic units of the University is done by decision of the Academic Senate, being based on the

main principle that the Department is to be responsible for at least one active study

programme. Each faculty is composed of three basic units which are the departments and

only in the case of the Faculty of Arts the structure comprises 2 departments and one

centre of the development of cultural scientific activities.

The hierarchical organisation of the UK includes its steering and advisory bodies as follows:

The Academic Senate is a collegial organ that defines the policies of development of UK,

designs the program, coordinates, steers and supervises the teaching and scientific research

as well as assesses their effectiveness. The Academic Senate is leaded by the Rector and is

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meeting periodically, according to the provisions of the Statute and Regulation of the

School.

The Management Council is the highest administrative body of the UK.

The Management Council is a collegial decision making body, which steers, supervises and

controls the administrative and financial activity of the UK.

The Rectorate is a collegial executive body that is composed of the Rector, Deputy Rector,

and the Deans. The Rectorate draws up the development plan of the institution; it designs

the annual programme of the activity as well as follows up its implementation; proposes the

general institutional structure and the categories of the academic personnel. The Rectorate

also submits recommendations regarding projects of study programmes, of the scientific

research and necessary structural changes for their realization.

The Council of the Faculty is a collegial decision making body, which is composed of the

dean, , Chiefs of Departments, academic staff with “Professor” title that is part of one of the

Faculty departments, as well as one or two best students of the faculty. The Council of the

Faculty is chaired by the Dean.

The Council of Ethics has been established as a permanent structure of the University as

discusses and decides on matters related to the ethics of the university life within the UK.

The Office of Career Counselling is responsible for ensuring the performance of the career

counselling process; follows up and organised career related issues of the students at the

UK; provides counselling and guidance in relation with orientation and development of

students professional careers; cooperates closely with the Faculty Departments; maintains

communication with the Labour Market Agencies to get feedback over the compatibility of

the provided diplomas with the labour market.

The Internal Quality Assurance Unit is an independent and permanent unit in the

organisation of our University. This unit evaluates the efficiency of teaching and research

activities inside Kristal University.

Directorate of Development of Curricula and Teaching Branch

Follows up the implementation of programmes and preparation of new programmes of

study for both levels; enables a periodical review of the programmes offered at UK; ensures

for the compatibility of the curricula with the requirements of the legislation on higher

education; supports the Internal Quality Assurance Commissions in the preparation of

assessment reports of study programmes, both for accreditation purposes as well as when it

comes to launching of new programmes, regarding issues of curricula and those of teaching-

research character.

The scientific research centre supports and coordinates at institutional level the activities

related to scientific research projects; it provides other units of the university with

information and assistance, necessary for the design, follow up and realization of projects

for the benefit of the teaching process and of scientific research, as well as maintains the

necessary contacts with donors within and outside the country.

Measurable indicators:

Organizational structure (chart)

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Bodies selected at all levels Hierarchical units, decision- making Relevant documents, taken during visits to the institution



criterions

CHAPTER III: INSTITUTION MANAGEMENT FOR FULFILLING ITS MISSION Standard I.1 - Institution and its structures work in accordance with Institution statute Criterion 1 Institution designs an internal regulation; Criterion 2 Institution drafts the statute in accordance with legislation in force and in accordance with its mission and objectives; Criterion 3 Institution adjusts and improves its statute and its regulation continuously.

UK functions on an internal regulation.

In addition, UK has drawn up and

adopted the stature in compliance with the law on higher education.

No relevant information.

Standard II.1 - Institution establishes appropriate structures to accomplish its mission and purpose.

Criterion 3 Academic Freedom and Higher Education Institutions is expressed in freedom of teaching, freedom of scientific research, freedom of creation; Criterion 4 Higher Education Institution is organized in main, auxiliary, basic organizational constituent units for autonomy exercise within its competencies. Criterion 5 University offers university study programs for three cycles and is composed of two faculties at least. It conducts basic and applied scientific research; Criterion 6 Academies offer higher professional education and creative activities in specific areas of art, sports, public order and other professional fields. They offer study programs for the three cycles and are composed of two faculties at least; Criterion 7 Inter-university center develops and promotes scientific research programs and projects and helps advanced education after the first cycle university studies; Criterion 8 Higher School offers higher education in studies of first and second cycle and is composed of two faculties at least. Higher school can offer applied research; Criterion 9 Professional college offers study programs of first cycle in several areas related to labor market needs; Criterion 10 An Institution of Higher Education has the right to open its branches in other regions, outside headquarters location, in order to offer study programs, scientific research and various services; Criteria 11 Faculty as the main unit, is organized in basic units. Each faculty has at least three basic units, two of which are departments; Criterion 12 Department, as the basic unit, consists of at least seven effective members as academic staff, 3 of whom at least have degrees and titles; Criterion 13 Institution has its official web site.

UK has an academic freedom of

teaching and creative of the teaching

process and scientific research as well as in respect of the programmes and

teaching plans designed and approved

according to the specifications therein.


No relevant information Kristal University provides 48 study

programmes in two cycles (32 Bachelor

and 3 Professional Master and 11

Scientific Master as well as 2

Integrated Programmes MSc). UK is

organized into 5 faculties which are engaged for the development of

scientific research.

Higher Education school UK has

opened four branches of it in other

regions offering 2 study programmes licensed by the Ministry of Education

and Science.

All of the five faculties of UK are

composed of three basic units which

are the Departments, while the Faculty

of Arts is composed of 2 departments and Centre of Development of Artistic -

Cultural activities.

The departments, as basic units have

mainly 7 pedagogues, effectives as

academic personnel and a part of them possess scientific tiles and grades titles

or under process of receiving them.

Only in the Faculty of Arts they have 4

pedagogues.

UK has its own official web page.

www.kristal.edu.al

Standard II.2 - Institution provides effective management of human resources.

Criterion 1 Institution implements clear rules to determine responsibilities according to respective functions.

The institution clearly defined in its

statute and regulation the main rules

and responsibilities to different

respective functions.

Standard II.3 - Management bodies facilitate decision making by favoring debate in Institution boards.

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Criterion 1 Institution puts in operation its boards, organized by levels; Criterion 2 Boards give opinions and proposals and make decisions; Criterion 3 Their proposals, opinions and decisions are sent to management authorities; Criterion 4 Academic staff is involved in internal debate under institutional procedures prescribed by statute.

The institution has clearly defined in the Statute and Regulation the

organisation and functioning of the

councils according to the levels, which

facilitate and support decision making.


These proposals or opinions are always delivered by their chairpersons in

writing or by electronic mail to the

management authorises to be taken

into consideration.

No relevant information. Conclusions of EEG: Kristal University and its structures are organized and function based on its statute and

regulation, which are updated in compliance with legal changes or directives of the Ministry of

Education and Science. Also they function in the realization of its mission and purpose by

ensuring the development of the institution. The standards are substantially fulfilled.

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3. Academic structure of HEI

Description part

The structure of UK is as follows:

Departament of

Informatics

Administative Council of

Kristal University

Academic Senate

Kristal University

Rector

Deputry rectors Rectorate Council of ethics

Scientific Research Centre

Career advising CentreKarrierës

Internal Quality Assurance Unit

Directorate of development of

Curricula and Teaching Branch

Organisative and Archives

Officei

Services Directorate

Chancelor Dormit

ary Booksh

opop Library

Medical sciences Faculty

Dean

Economics Faculty Dean Faculty of Law and Social

Sciences

Dean

Engineering Faculty Dean Faculty of Arts

Dean

Faculty Council Faculty Council Faculty Council Facultry Council Faculty Council

Department of Nursing

Departament of Pharmacy

and Dentistry

Departament of Medical

Technologies

Departament of Finance

Departament of Business

Management

Departament of Public

administration

Departament of Public Law

Departament of Private Law

Departament of Social

Sciences

Departament of Electronics

Departament of Information

Technology

Centre of Artistic and cultural

activities

Departament of fine arts

Departament of Music

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Academic Structures of University (Faculties, Research centers)

Academic Structures for each Faculty

Didactic Structures for each Departament (and/or study program)

Database of HEI, updating and the responsibility for retaining and sharing information;

Number of accademic staff (verify the data, according to Table 1)

Table 1

HEI

Faculty of Medicine

Number of FAS

Number of PAS

Number of AE

In Total

Department

of Medical

Technology

7 52 59

Department

nursery

7 58 65

Department Pharmacy

and

Dentistry

7 32 39

In total 21 142 163

HEI

Faculty of Law

Number of FAS

Number of PAS

Number of AE

In Total

Department

of private

Law

7 16 23

Department of Public

Law

9 21 30

Department

of Social

Science

10 45 55

In total 26 72 98

HEI

Faculty of Arts

Number of FAS

Number of PAS

Number of AE

In Total

Department

of Musics

7 18 25

Department

of Figurativ Arts

4 7 11

In total 11 25 36

HEI

Faculty of Economics

Number of FAS

Number of PAS

Number of AE

In Total

Department

of Finance

7 28

35

Department 7 26 33

12

of Management

Department

of Public

Administratio

n

8 24 32

In total 22 78

Relevant documents, taken during visits to the institution



criterions

CHAPTER III INSTITUTION MANAGEMENT FOR FULFILLING ITS MISSION Standard I.2 - Institution is organized in such a way as to ensure efficiency in management.

Criterion 1 Management bodies exercise Institution's management effectively. Rectorate prepares and submits the budget to Institution's Academic Senate; Criterion 2 Rectorate determines composition of experts' committee which develops Institution's economic and budgetary policies; Criterion 3 Rectorate formulates criteria for allocation of financial, material and human resources; Criterion 4 Rector encourages promotion of Institution's academic staff; Criterion 5 Administration Board is a collegial decision-making, in Public Higher Education Institutions, which supervises and controls activity of Higher Education Institution, related to its administrative, financial, economic and properties management; Criterion 6 Board of Ethics is established in Higher Education Institutions and discusses issues of university life ethics. It makes proposals to the Rector about their treatment; Criterion 7 Faculty Board is a collegial decision-making, body which, based on proposals of departments, schedules and determines the use of human and material resources available to faculty; Criterion 8 Board of Professors is established for organization and management of doctorate studies and scientific, pedagogical training after the doctorate, in leading units higher education institutions, which offer study programs of third cycle or even in the Institution level; Criterion 9 Dean is faculty management authority and its legal representative; Criterion 10 Director is managing authority of a research and development institute or of a subsidiary (if it has the faculty or department status) and represents it; Criterion 11 Dean / director is elected with secret voting by all academic staff, non-academic staff and students and faculty / research and development institute / vocational college; Criterion 12 Head of department / research and development center are elected with secret voting by all academic staff respectively; Criterion 13 Internal organization and control in non-public Higher Education Institutions are made in accordance with provisions in statute and internal regulations; Criterion 14 Nonpublic Higher Education Institutions have a clear separation of activity of management bodies and authorities, administrative and academic personnel.

Due to the analyses of the documents

and meetings with the management

bodies and authorities as well as the

dean’s offices they realize the

effective management. The rector prepares and submits the budget to

the Academic Senate of the

institution.

The Rector of the Kristal University

determines the composition of the committee of experts in the

development of the economic and

budgetary policies that serve the

needs and functioning of the

institution.

No relevant information. The directors of the institution and

the Rector of the Kristal University

stimulate the promotion of the

academic staff through financial

support as defined at specific points of the employment contract also they

helps them in the realization of their

PhD process and also taking part in

different conferences.


No relevant information The statute of the Kristal University

provides for the Dean as the head of

the faculty and its legal

representative.

The Dean is the head of the Faculty and is appointed by the Rector from

the list of candidates selected by the

Administrative Council (Kristal

University Statute).

The Head of the department is the

highest academic authority for the Department, appointed by the Dean

with the approval of the Rector

(Kristal University statute,

regulation).

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The internal organization and control in the Kristal University is made in

accordance with the relevant

provisions in the statute and internal

regulations.


Standard I.3 - Institution encourages constructive debate.

Criterion 1 Materials for discussion are prepared and made available to members Institution boards, before making decisions; Criterion 2 Senate and boards meet periodically; Criterion 3 Opinions and proposals of Senate and the council are considered for implementation; Criterion 4 Institution monitors their implementation process.


Senate and Councils gather periodically, the required

documentation is situated in the

respective units.


Directors of the Faculties and Heads of Departments are responsible f

monitoring the implementation of

decisions and advices taken by the

Senate.

Conclusions of EEG: The directors and heads of the institution are precisely defined in the status and the regulation of

the University. They have precise functions which are explained and analysed in the status. All the structures have their specific functions which contribute to the realization of the administration

and teaching process. The standards are substantially fulfilled.

4. Quality of Academic and administrative (support) staff

Description part

The teaching process at the Kristal University is carried out by a large number of part time

and full time professors, while working in the Albanian public universities and foreign

universities. The teaching staff selection is also regulated due to the law of the higher

education and with different qualifications and titles. The external lecturers who conduct

lectures and seminars are full professors (Prof. Dr), assistant professors (Ass. Prof. Dr.), and

the rest are Ph.D. or hold a Master’s degree.

There are also some relatively young lecturers with less academic experience where almost

all young lecturers have first and second level master's degrees and the rest are in the

process of a Master’s degree at the University of Tirana or in Western Europe prestigious

universities. The main aim is to carry out the teaching workload mainly with full-time

sustainable staff.

The main criteria on which the evaluation/recruiting candidates are carried out are

candidate's performance indicators, such as:

• Candidate's experience in teaching at the university level;

• Have as a minimum a PhD, and one of the titles Professor, Associate Professor or

Academic;

• The quality and standards of the university where the candidate graduated, giving

priority to Western universities;

• Candidate's personal achievements;

• Candidate's research activity and its compliance with the Kristal University's scientific

objectives;

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• Candidate's main motivations for becoming a lecturer at the Kristal University;

• Candidate's communication skills and ethics;

• Candidate's medium- and long-term objectives in academic and scientific career;

• Candidate's experience of employment;

• Candidate's possession of foreign languages and the extent of their use;

• Candidate's presentation during the interview in front of a special panel of recruitment;

• Candidate's presentation during an open lecture to the relevant department (if

applicable).

• Special Occasions: In addition to lecturers with degrees and titles, for special needs and

for certain periods the Kristal University can hire lecturers who do not have degrees

and titles, but have a long and successful experience in their profession and institution,

or who are unique in their field of specialization.

A series of conferences, trainings and open lectures have been developed and are scheduled

to take place this year from the Kristal University.


Number of professors;

Number of associated professors

Number of doctorial degree holders (or PhD)

Number of Master degree;

Number of assistants

Number of administrative and support staff (lab assistants, technicians, administrative staff etc)

(verify the data, according to Table 2, 3)

Table 2

Table 3

Faculty of Engeniering

Title

Dep Electronics Dep Informatics Dep of Technology and

Information

FAS PAS FAS/PAS rate



Professors - 2 0/2 1 - 1/0 1 0 1/0

As.Prof - - - - 2 0/2 0 1 0/1

Doctors (PhD) 1 1 1/1 - - - 0 2 0/2

Msc 2 4 4/2 3 4 ¾ 5 2 5/2

Assistants - - - - - - 0 0 0

Administrative and support staff

- - - - - - 0 0 0

Professors 2

Faculty of LAW

Title Dep Private Law Dep Public Law

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FAS PAS

Professors - - - 2 - 2/0

As.Prof - 3 0/3 - 1 0/1

Doctors (PhD) 1 1 1/1 4 1 4/1

Msc 7 12 7/12 3 19 3-19

Assistants - - - - - -


- - - - - -

Professors - - - 3 - 3/0

Title Dep Of Social Sciences

FAS PAS FAS/PAS

rate Professors - 3 0/3

As.Prof - 2 0/2

Doctors (PhD) 2 15 2/13

Msc 8 56 8/56

Assistants - - -

Administrative and support staff - - -

Professors - - -

Faculty of Arts

Title

Dep Music Dep of Figurativ Arts



Professors

As.Prof 1 0/1

Doctors (PhD) 2 0/2 1 1 1/1

Msc 3 3/0 1 2 1/2

Assistants 4 15 4/15 2 4 2/4


Professors

As.Prof

Faculty of Medical Sciences

Title

Dep Medicine Techonology

Dep of Nursery Dep Pharmacy and Stomatology

FAS PAS FAS/PAS FAS PAS FAS/PA

S

FAS PAS FAS/PAS

Professors 1 3 1/3 - 6 0/6 - 3 0/3

As.Prof 1 2 1/2 - 2 0/2 1 4 1/4

Doctors (PhD) 1 27 1/27 2 15 2/15 - 8 0/8

Msc 4 20 4/20 5 35 5/35 6 17 6/17

Assistants - - - - -


- - - - -

Professors 2 - 1 - 5 1 5/1

Data according to the sex (verify the data, according to Table 4)

Table 4


16

Title Dep of Medicine Techonology

Dep of Nursery Dep of Pharmacy and dentistry

Female Male F/M rate Female Male

F/M rate

Female

Male F/M rate

Professors - 1 1/0 - - - - -

As.Prof 1 - 0/1 - - 1 - 0/1

Doctors (PhD) - 1 1/0 1 1 1/1 - - -

Msc 2 2 2/2 4 1 1/4 4 2 2/4

Assistants - - - - - - - - -


- - - - - - - - -

Professors 2 - 0/2 1 - 0/1 2 3 3/2


Title

Dep Electronics Dep Informatics Dep Technology and

Information

Female

Male F/M rate

Female

Male F/M rate

Female Male F/M rate

Professors - - - - 1 1/0 - 1 1/0

As.Prof - - - - - - - -

Doctors (PhD) 1 - 0/1 - - - - - -

Msc 2 2 2/2 1 3 3/1 3 2 2/3

Assistants - - - - - - - - -


- - - - - - - - -

Professors 2

TitLe Dep Social Sciences

Female Male F/M rate

Professors -

As.Prof -

Doctors (PhD) 1 2 2/1

Msc 6 1 1/6

Assistants -


-

Professors -

Faculty of Arts

Title Dep of Music Dep of Figurative Arts

Female Male F/M rate Female Male F/M rate

Professors

As.Prof

Doctors (PhD) 1 0/1

Msc 1 2 1/2 1 1/0

Assistants 2 2 2/2 2 0/2


Professors

As.Prof

data according to the age of academic staff (verify the data, according to Table 5)

Table 5

Faculty of Meducal Sciences

Title Age

17

(25-35) (36-45) (46-55) (56-65) (66-68)

Professors - - - - 1

As.Prof - - 2 -

Doctors (PhD) 1 - - 2 -

Msc 13 2 - - -



- - - - -

Professors - - - - -


Title Age

(25-35) (36-45) (46-55) (56-65) (66-68)

Professors - - - - -

As.Prof - - - - -

Doctors (PhD) 1 - - - -

Msc 9 2 1 - 1



- - - - -

Professors - 2 - - -

Faculty of Law and Social Sciences

Title Age

(25-35) (36-45) (46-55) (56-65) (66-68)

Professors - - - 1 1

As.Prof - - - - -

Doctors (PhD) - 2 2 - 1

Msc 3 3 3 - -



- - - - -

Professors 3 - - - -

Faculty of Arts

Title Age

(25-35) (36-45) (46-55) (56-65) (66-68)

Professors

As.Prof

Doctors (PhD) 1

Msc 1 3

Assistants 3 2 1


Professors

Title

Job contracts, sanctioning of the duties and rights

Relevant documents obtained from visits to the institution


18


criterions

IV - HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT Standard IV.1 - Institution pursues an open policy for employment and recruitment of human resources.

Criterion 1 Institution makes its organization chart public; Criterion 2 Institution pursues a policy of part-time employment for its needs; Criterion 3 Institution publishes employment criteria for each vacant job position; Criterion 4 Institution pursues a policy of promotion of full-time, part-time, invited or contracted academic staff; Criterion 5 Institution pursues a policy of hiring supporting teaching-scientific and administrative staff in accordance with Law No. 9741 of 21.5.2007 "On Higher Education in Republic of Albania", amended and other legal regulations adopted for its implementation; Criterion 6 Institution provides for criteria and procedures for personnel recruitment in the internal regulations; Criterion 7 Institution recruits with priority qualified academic staff from internationally recognized universities.

Kristal University has its website

which is published useful

information.

No relevant information,

Kristal University publishes on its

web-site employment criteria for each job vacancy.

Kristal University pursues a policy

of promoting effective academic staff

and part-time through the

stimulation of their participation and financial support as defined in

specific points of the employment

contract.

Kristal University pursues a policy

of employing administrative

personnel and assisting teaching staff in accordance with the law no.

9741, dated 25.5.2007 "On higher

education in the Republic of

Albania", as amended, and other

regulations adopted for its

implementation, the points of which are described in detail in individual

employment contracts.


Standard IV.2 - Institution pursues a policy of integration of academic staff, teaching and scientific supporting staff and administrative staff.

Criterion 1 Institution engages in implementation of integration policies for its staff; Criterion 2 Institution engages its staff to organize an information day, by preparing informational brochures; Criterion 3 Institution pursues a favorable policy for integration of its staff in its social life.

Kristal University has helped the

teaching and administrative staff in

the involvement of the national and international scientific and artistic

activities.

At the meetings with the academic

staff they pointed out that they

organize special days of information and are engaged almost completely

in preparing and distributing

informational brochures both inside

and outside of the university.


Standard IV.3 - Institution pursues a policy for assessment of its staff skills.

Criterion 1 Institution follows a training plan according to priorities defined in development project; Criterion 2 Institution evaluates achievements of its staff; Criterion 3 Institution encourages training and promotion of academic staff in western universities; Criterion 4 Institution engages foreign professors in committees/panels that promote personnel to scientific degree "Doctor" and academic titles "Docent", "Prof.", "Ass. Prof."; Criterion 5 Institution sets as a prerequisite for promotion to title "Professor" a sufficient research or academic experience at least 1-year in a Western university.

Kristal University has organized a

number of scientific conferences, seminars, workshops and open

lectures in order to realize the

training process.

The institution has several

questionnaires in order to evaluate

the achievements of its staff. Kristal University’s has different

collaborations with western

universities, which is very

important for the development of

the institution and of the improvement of the academic staff

19

by covering part of the cost which is elaborated in specific points of the

employment contract.

Kristal University does not realize a

third cycle study program.


Standard IV.4 - Institution pursues a social development policy.

Criterion 1 Institution organizes social activities; Criterion 2 Institution promotes social dialogue; Criterion 3 Institution pursues a policy of life and health insurance.

The institution organizes sports

activities as well as artistic performances. It also offers health

services.

Conclusions of EEG: The process of recruiting academic personnel is executed in compliance with the strategy of the

Kristal University, based on the statute, regulation of the university and in compliance with the

recommendation of the MES:

1. High academic qualification. 2. New specialists in process of PhD inside the country or abroad.

3. New specialists with perspective.

4. Individuals with long work experience in specific fields.

The standards are considered to be substantially fulfilled.

5. Facilities, infrastructure, logistics and other services

Description part

The Kristal University has a consolidated and modern campus which is situated some km

away from the city. The buildings have large surface areas, and a modern infrastructure. All

premises have a central heating/cooling system for winter/summer, where the students feel

comfortable, in accordance with the western standards. The University has many room

classes and meeting halls, library etc. The auditoriums for lectures, seminars and

laboratories are accommodated in rooms. The offices of full –time academic staff are also

large spaces, furnished with PC’s and according to the Western standards. Also, the

administrative supporting staff has its own offices, its own PC’s and comfortable equipment

required to exercise their functions. The University has already a concert hall, “Kristal

Theater”, and a gallery of arts, “Kristal”, which are available to students and lecturers for

the promotion of vocal, instrumental and creative interpretation skills.

There is a quick access to Internet in all offices for the lecturers, where they may find the

relevant information required for the teaching process. In addition, there is a room with

Internet access available to students.

The students have at their disposal the Library with a wide range of literature from the

respective area of their studies, in Albanian and in foreign language. Also, the students have

free access to Internet.


(verify the data, according to Table 6)

Table 6

20

Facilities for University Number Square (m2)

Libraries of University 2 324

Rectorate Offices 1 68

Building for scientific research 1 443

Logistics offices 1 70

Quality assurance Unit offices 1 30

Information offices (for students, stakeholders) 1 70

Corridors / halls 18 1264

University sports facilities 2 470

Toilet units 27 95

Etc

Facilities for Faculty of Medicine

Auditoriums 11 956

Classrooms 12 474

Laboratories 10 1034

Computer/internet laboratories 1 68

Library buildings 1 277



Buildings for tertiar servicies

Rooms for student government activities 1 277

Recreational facilities such as cafeterias / fast-food/etc 3 536

Toiletes for students 25 94

Logistics Room (for photocopying machines, etc.) 1 70

Officies for Dean/ Chancellory/etc 3 150

Administrative offices 3 360

Departmentet offices 3 113

Quality assurance Unit Office 1 30

Meeting halls 1 277

Toilet units for staff 4 12

Toilet units for students 28 103

Etc

Rate m2/per student

Facilities for the Faculty of Engineering

Auditoriums 4 320

Classrooms 5 194

Laboratories 4 312





Buildings for tertiar servicies








Quality assurance Unit Office

Meeting halls 1 277



Etc

21

Rate m2/per student

Facilities for the Faculty of Law and Social Sciences

Auditoriums 7 913

Classrooms 8 305

Laboratories - -


Library buildings - -



Buildings for tertiar servicies 1 178

Rooms for student government activities - -







Quality assurance Unit Office - -

Meeting halls 1 277



Etc

Rate m2/per student

Facilities for the Faculty of Economics

Auditoriums 8 910

Classrooms 6 228

Laboratories 1 74


Library buildings - -



Buildings for tertiar servicies 2 339









Meeting halls 1 277



Etc

Rate m2/per student

Facilities for the Faculty of Arts

Auditoriums 5 380

Classrooms 6 228

Laboratories 2 120





Buildings for tertiar servicies - -

Rooms for student government activities - -



22






Meeting halls - -



Etc

Rate m2/per student

Other logistics database:

number of PC per students;

number of PC furnished labs per students;

number of PC for academic staff

number of PC for administration

number of printers for each one

number of photocopying machines for each one

number of head projectors

number of video-projectors

number of scanners




criterions V - MANAGEMENT OF INSTITUTION ACTIVITY Standard V.1 Institution provides appropriate facilities and infrastructure for academic and scientific activity.

Criterion 1 Institution of Higher Education makes available for teaching facilities, constructed (or reconstructed) with contemporary quality materials that meet hygienic and sanitary conditions for students, academic and administrative staff, avoiding risk elements; Criterion 2 Institution of Higher Education provides good acoustics in teaching premises and isolation from noise, temperature fluctuations and humidity; Criterion 3 Institution of Higher Education is far from industrial development zones or areas that are polluted above relevant permitted standards; Criterion 4 Higher Education Institution owns teaching auditoriums; facilities for labs; facilities for teaching staff, facilities for administrative staff; technical facilities, facilities for the library, for senate, audiovisual rooms, room for computers, multimedia, and others of this nature; Criterion 5 Higher Education Institution meets the usable surface norm of 3.8 - 4.0 m2/student (minimum) and 7.5 - 8.0 m2/student (maximum); Criterion 6 Institution of Higher Education provides sufficient capacity for students' practical qualification programs in areas like health, technical sciences, agricultural sciences and the like; Criterion 7 Height of premises is not less than 3.0 m (ceiling-floor). The minimal above norm is accepted for study programs such as language, literature, sociology, history, geography, economics, law, mathematics, archeology, etc.. and others of this nature, (generally for social and

The institution has a modern

infrastructure which is well

constructed and in the service of the

students to accomplish their activities and obligations, with

required technical standards and

also due to the visit in the institution

the university environment have

shown hygienic-sanitary conditions both for the students and teaching,

administrative and supporting staff.

The university buildings ensures

noise proof isolation and also against

temperature fluctuations and

humidity. The teaching process is not violated from the noises.

The campus is located away from the

city in an appropriate area, meeting

the permitted pollution standards.

The university has a consolidated infrastructure and well constructed

in the function of the university. It

has a modern campus which it

consists in many parts which are

useful for the realization of the

23

political sciences), whereas for study programs as architecture, music, and the like, no less than the above norms average is accepted. The above norms are minimally doubled (minimum and maximum) for study programs in engineering or natural sciences (physics, chemistry, biology, etc.); Criterion 8 Higher Education Institution meets technical norms of natural lighting, window surface covers at least 15 – 20 % of floor surface and lighting is directed to the student's left arm, possibly from southeast; Criterion 9 Higher Education Institution, which has more than 200 students (in a building), has mandatory emergency exits and stairs; Criterion 10 Higher Education Institution has fire protection system and protection system against atmospheric discharges; Criterion 11 Higher Education Institution has a functioning heating system; Criterion 12 Higher Education Institution has alternative sources for electric energy supply (motor generator, etc.) as well as sufficient reserves of usable water (water tanks).

teaching process. Currently, the surface area used per

student is 5 m².

The university has several

laboratories in different faculties

which are in the function of the

realization of the practical part of the different subjects. Also they have

constructed a theater which is used

for the practical training of the

students.

The floor-ceiling height is 3 meters, and which is suitable for the

different study programs.

From the visit to the institution the

constructed buildings meet the

natural lighting standards.

The building has emergency stairs ensuring the exit from the building,

in different cases.

The institution has a fire protection

system well situated in the

buildings.

The buildings have a heat and cool for summer.

The institution has alternative

sources like motor-generator sets in

case of electricity cut.

Standard V. 2 Institution possesses full documentation of academic activity in hardcopy and electronic form.

Criterion 1 Institution has a structure that is responsible for maintaining documentation in hardcopy; Criterion 2 Institution has a facility for data digitalization and documentation storage in electronic form; Criterion 3 Institution has a structure for collection of statistics; Criterion 4 Institution has a database regarding registration of students, matriculation number, etc., in accordance with bylaws in force; Criterion 5 Institution has general information on its program, form, syllabus, coupled with binding credits for studies; Criterion 6 Institution has a student-based registry with data their own. Criterion 7 Institution has a basic register for students (in a printed and electronics stored permanently), with grades received while following the study program, data on diploma or diplomas awarded along with diploma supplement, etc..


The University structure also includes ADCS (Archive Department

and Central Secretariat), which is

responsible for the digitalization and

preservation of documentation in an

electronic form. Based on the visit in the secretariat

we realize that the institution has a

database for collecting the data of

the students.

All the programs are recorded in an

electronic way and they have all the necessary information about the

credits and the content.

Based on the visit in the secretary of

the university we realized that they

have the register and the relevant data for the students, diplomas. Also

they are reformatting the secretary

in different faculties which

demonstrates good progress to them.

VII - INFORMATION SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT Standard VII.1 - Institution has an information system

Criterion 1 Information systems are coordinated; Criterion 2 Information systems management is used to provide strategic information. Criterion 3 Institution publishes in the official website all statistical data on number of students by programs, academic offer, institution set-up and operation, statute and regulations of its operation.

The university has an integrated

infrastructure which helps the

system information to be

coordinated. Also the different offices

supply useful and needed

information such as the information office, secretariat for teaching

24

activities, finance office etc The university has a website which

is well structured and contains

useful information about the study

programs, credits, diplomas etc. The

students are informed about the

operation of the University, dates of examinations, activities etc.

Standard VII.2 - Institution coordinates activities in the field of information technology.

Criterion 1 Institution conducts its computerization; Criterion 2 Institution makes available to staff and students, computer science rooms or laboratories; Criterion 3 Institution provides distance education programs.


The institution has 2 rooms where

the students can use the internet

and also has made available labs as

well which are useful for the

realization of the teaching process. No relevant information

Standard VII.3 - Institution manages immovable’s.

Criterion 1 Institution has a record of immovable’s; Criterion 2 Institution has a master plan for security, rehabilitation, expansion, and/or restructuring of its immovable’s; Criterion 3 Institution manages its assets under a defined plan; Criterion 4 Institution oversees its construction and reconstruction projects.


The Institution has signed

agreements with insurance

companies and meets all legal

requirements

The university manages their assets under a defined plan each academic

year.

The institution supervises its

construction and reconstruction

projects to meet all required standards, defined for the

implementation of the teaching

process. The institution realizes the

construction projects with the third

parties, in accordance with the

provisions of the Urban Planning Law.

Standard VII.5 - Institution pursues a policy of management of its assets.

Criterion 1 Institution has an adequate infrastructure to conduct its activities; Criterion 2 Institution owns facilities for academic staff activity, in proportion to its staff number.

Kristal University has a modern

infrastructure and is well equipped

with useful laboratories, classes,

conference halls, theatres etc where

the students can apply their practical knowledge and develop the

theoretical subjects. Also the

institution has a consolidated

infrastructure to implement its

activities.

The faculties and the departments have an integrated infrastructure

where every department has their

offices with all the necessary

equipment required to ensure the

development of their activities and for the implementation of the

academic and teaching process.

Standard VII.6 - Institution establishes a logistics administrative structure to carry out functions of common interest.

Criterion 1 Institution provides services in accordance with market needs; Criterion 2 Institution carries out surveys and evaluates logistic services.

The institution points out on every

occasion that they have done a

market study where the main focus

is on the market needs and also

their main objective is the

25

development of their students. No relevant information

Conclusions of EEG: Kristal University has a consolidated and well structured university campus where they hold the main activities. The institution offers several facilities and has a contemporary infrastructure to

ensure the realization of the teaching process and also the practical application of their knowledge.

Based on the visit in the institution we realized that they have several laboratories, hygiene

conditions, administrative staff and necessary other equipments.

The institution is taking up a reform of the secretariat which is responsible for the digitalization and saving of the documentation in electronic form and for gathering all the statistics regarding

students’ enrollment, number of matriculation etc. It is part of the university structure to make it

more useful to the students needs and to facilitate their procedures. They have a correlation

between the different offices which have appropriate functions. The institution has confirmed in the

discussions that they have taken other investments in order to realize many other activities and to

help the improvement of the university and the students too. The standards are fulfilled.

6. Financing and management of financial resources


Financial resources, data over the five years (verify the data, according to Table 7)

Table 7

RESOURCES FROM: Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5

PUBLIC FUNDS:

Central government 0 0 0 0 0

Local government 0 0 0 0 0

Total (1) 0 0 0 0 0

NON-PUBLIC FUNDS:

Grants on research and contracts 0 0 0 0 0

Consultations, services 0 0 0 0 0

All kinds of tuition fees 580,77

5,816

594,1

23,32

264,7

06,42

219,0

00,00

240,0

0

36,9

Sponsorships 0 0 0 0 0

Training services (life-long qualifications) 0 0 0 0 0

Donations, assurance activities, foundations etc. 0 0 0 0 0

Commercial activities (cafeterias, fast-food, residential quarters)

11,906

,750

14,53

6,773

3,500

,003

1,764

,444

5,400

,000

SUM (1) + (2) 592,68 4,578

608,6 62,10

4

268,2 08,66

6

220,7 64,44

4

245,5 36,90

3

Costs (in the past 5 years), according to financing resources, in percentage (verify the data, according to Table 8)

Table 8

Costs (%)

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5

Pag

a

Shp

enzi

me

Inve

stim

e

Pag

a

Shp

enzi

me

Inve

stim

e

Pag

a

Shp

enzi

me

Inve

stim

e

Pag

a

Shp

enzi

me

Inve

stim

e

Pag

a

Shp

enzi

me

Inve

stim

e

26

Central Governme

nt

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Local Governme

nt 0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Total 0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Non-public funds: Grants for Research and Contracts 0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Consultation, services 0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

All kinds of tuition fees

197,9

89

513,0

54

43,3

72

322,5

77

209,4

38

65,4

23

222,2

56

52,4

65

- 190,0

51

23,1

02

1,7

45

101,0

42

120,9

62

5,8

93

Sponsorships 0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Training

services (life-long learning

qualification)

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Donations,

assurance activities, foundations etc 0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Commercial activities 0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Total

SUM

197,9

89

513,0

54

43,3

72

322,5

77

209,4

38

65,4

23

222,2

56

52,4

65

- 190,0

51

23,1

02

1,7

45

101,0

42

120,9

62

5,8

93

Cost/per student (for 1 academic year)

Transparence, internal financial audit Report and its results

Financial management capacity




criterions

VI - FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Standard VI.1 - Institution drafts the budget in accordance with defined procedures. Criterion 1 Distribution of financial resources and their use in public Higher Education Institutions are made in accordance with the rules and standards of budgetary programming and public financial management; Criterion 2 The structure for budget drafting for each public Higher

The institution has a budget and

financial management which is under the control of the Kristal

Company but has its own

management strategy.

27

Education Institution is made according to State Budget structure, as defined in the guideline of Minister of Finance; Criterion 3 The proposed budget is subject to discussion in Institution Senate and Administration Board. Proposed budget for non-public HEIs is subject to discussion in senate and shareholders board; Criterion 4 Institution budget is detailed and delegated for management up to department.

The private Institution of Higher Education “Kristal University” is an

institution of private higher

education.

The statutes of the Institution

provide useful information about the

procedures of the proposed and the management of the budget. The draft

budget of the Private Institution of

Higher Education “Kristal” University

is designed by the Rectorate and is

sent for approval to the Administration Council.

The budget is centrally administered

under the management of the Rector,

Senate and Administration Council.

Standard VI.2 - Institution provides the necessary means to implement the financial policy.

Criterion 1 Institution sets up the special structure for its financial management and financial policy implementation; Criterion 2 Institution pursues a transparent policy for distribution of financial resources; Criterion 3 Institution respects accounting rules; Criterion 4 Rules of Financial Management of Higher Education Institutions are identical to those of other public institutions; Criterion 5 Institution analyzes indicators from monitoring of financial policy implementation.

The offices respectively have their

précised functions due to the statues

and regulations of the institutions have executive functions.



KU is a private institution of higher

education and rules of internal

administration are established in accordance with the acts approved

by the Institution and the Law of

higher education.


Standard VI.3 - Institution pursues a policy of budgetary and financial control. Criterion 1: Higher Education Institutions are subject to financial audit, performed by institutions stipulated by law for this purpose; Criterion 2 Financial audit outcomes are made public; Criterion 3 Financial activity report is announced in an open meeting for students and HEI staff; Criterion 4 Reports of SAI, of MES audit and Institution audit for public HEIs are reviewed in Administrative Board; Criterion 5 Financial audit report of non-public Higher Education Institutions highlights the policy of use of revenues from student fees for the increase of teaching quality and services to students.

The Institution is not directly subject

to the auditing procedures.

KU has the status of a private

institution of higher education.

No relevant information KU has the status of a private


KU has the status of a private


Conclusions of EEG: Private Higher Education Institution-Kristal University (PHEIKU) meets all the requirements and

standards of the financial management of the private institution of higher education.

In accordance to the legal dispositions in force, Kristal University respects the national accounting standards in respect to the financing and management sectors. The draft budget for

each academic year is planned and passes the approval stages according to the definitions on the

Statute and Regulation of the University and in compliance with the Law for the Higher

Education.

The draft budget is offered for all the interest groups, by clearly submitting to a debate. KU

secures the necessary funds for the normal implementation of the teaching process, for the fulfillment of the practices and lab classes. KU meets the required funds for scientific research

and the training in continuity of the academic and support staff. KU treats the academic staff

financially and in a differentiated way according to the scientific grades and titles and encourages

that part of the staff that is in PhD process to participate in conferences inside the country and

abroad and for scientific editions, delivered even in the annexes of the job contracts. The standards are fulfilled.

7. Internal Quality Assurance System (IQAS)

28

Description Part

According to the self-evaluation report and the discussions during the site visit, an internal

quality assurance unit has been set up. Its members represent all of the faculties of UK and

attribute about one quarter of their working time to the work of the unit while benefitting

from a reduction of the teaching load. The unit has developed guidelines for the evaluation

process which is mainly implemented through two tools: evaluations by the students and

controlling of the curricula in collaboration with the curriculum unit.

The unit has developed a questionnaire for students which is used in all departments except

one. The questionnaire is used at the end of each semester, typically after the final exam.

The results are assembled by the unit members who prepare the summaries for their

respective faculties and provide them to the respective deans. The summaries are provided

to the rector and the deans and brought to the attention of the other staff members on the

deans’ discretion.

Further tools used to monitor and enhance the quality of teaching and learning are the use

of student mentors who regularly meet with the students of a particular degree programme

and report to the heads of departments. Additionally, lecturers participate in each other’s

classes on an irregular basis.

For the preparation of self-evaluation reports for external accreditations (both on

programme lever and institutional) ad-hoc self-evaluation groups are set up by the

departments or units under review. They take into account the results of the summaries

and reports of the internal quality assurance unit.

Furthermore, new guidelines for the development of an internal quality management system

have been developed in collaboration with APAAL and an international expert. The unit is

now tasked with the implementation of these guidelines though no working plan for this has

been made available.


Database for members of IQAU (verify the data, according to Table 9)

Table 9

Members of IQAU Position in IQAU

How long he/she has this task

1 Elda Jano Acting Director 1 year

2 Bashkim Berberi Member 4 years

3 Alma Nushi Member 2 years

4 Elda Rako Member 2 years

5 Blerta Moçka Member 2 years

6 Roland Dasho Member 6 years

7 Ina Memishahi Member 6 months

Quantitative data for IQAU, as:

o How many surveys are made with students?

o How many students were surveyed?

29

o How many surveys are processed, and what problems are issued?

o What have been the next steps?

o etc.

Internal quality control

Responsibilities in monitoring and quality management, until the department level

Self assessments conducted, and their results

Quality improvement policies, on the basis of periodic self-assessment

The results of the audit and external assessment

Relevant documentation, received in visits to the institution

See above for a description of these issues



criterions

Standard II.4 - Institution pursues a clear policy for improvement of teaching quality. Criterion 3 Institution qualifies academic staff in the field of scientific research to help improve teaching further Criterion 4 Academic staff is trained continuously to improve teaching; Criterion 6 Institution makes available the necessary infrastructure to realize study programs;

This standard is fully assessed in

section 9.

While the HEI stipulates in the

contracts with some full time

teachers that further academic

degrees are to be pursued, there is

on consistent documented policy to this regard. Nevertheless, academic

staff confirmed that budget is

available to participate in academic

conferences.

The infrastructure is sufficient.

The standard is fulfilled.

I – AUTONOMY Standard I.4 - Institution respects its autonomy limits. Criterion 1 Institution has installed structures of supervision and internal evaluation; Criterion 2 Institution has engaged external consultants to assist its proper functioning; Criterion 3 Institution is organized in such a way as to benefit funding from European programs and beyond.

The HEI has introduced an internal

quality assurance unit. However,

this unit works only part-time and

no person or unit within the HEI

has the full responsibility for quality

assurance and quality management. Accordingly, several tools are used

in parallel without systematic

interlinking of their results. It is

thus recommendable to

professionalize the work of such a unit and at least some of its staff in

order to guarantee that the quality

of teaching and learning is upheld

and improved.

This would include not only the ad-

hoc contracting of external experts – as is done for curriculum

development – but ensure a

30

continuous monitoring of the quality. A full-time unit with clear

competences would provide a

systematic approach to the

implementation of quality

improvements on all levels whereas

currently the focus is on curricular content.

It is laudable that great overlap

existed between the members of the

internal quality assurance unit and

the self-evaluation team as self-evaluation should be considered one

tool of internal quality management

(similarly to student

questionnaires). Nevertheless, the

HEI should consider an overarching

system needed for its own quality management aims and the tools

needed to achieve these.

The standard is partially fulfilled.

Standard I.6 - Institution publishes the annual report, submits it to Ministry of Education and Science, academic staff and students. Criterion 1 Report reflects internal and external activities of the Institution; Criterion 2 Report helps for internal and external assessment of the Institution; Criterion 3 Report of activities is made available to Institution boards; Criterion 4 Report of activities made public and submitted to the Ministry of Education and Science and to academic staff and students.

While the report itself was not made

available, the university confirms

that is does submit an annual report to the Ministry.

Standards cannot be fully assessed.

Conclusions of EEG: The standards are substantially met. It is, however, recommended to professionalize the quality

management system, ensuring that it takes into account all aspects of teaching, learning and

research. It should also be ensured that the results of all quality tools (questionnaires, external

assessments) are centralized in one unit and that feedback loops are consistently closed. Systematic and continuous check-up of the implementation of improvement recommendation

should be provided for.

STUDENT EDUCATION POLICIES

8. Study Programmes, its organisation

Description Part

According to the self-evaluation report and the discussions during the site visit, the institution offers 46 degree programmes at First and Second Cycle level (according to the

Framework of Qualifications for the European Higher Education Area) at its five faculties

which have been licensed by the responsible Ministry in Albania. For each of these

programmes overall objectives have been defined. The ECTS system is in use for all

programmes with each academic year split into two semesters. The designated duration of the respective programmes is in line with the Bologna process practices.


Diploma Title, for each study programmes: Bsc, Msc, Msc (integrated), PM, Doctorate;


o Bachelor of:

Nursing

Public Health

Medical Laboratory

Technician

31

Physiotherapy

Imagery and Radiotherapy

Midwifery

o Master of Science in:

Organization and

Management of Nursing

Services in Public Health

o Integrated Second Cycle Program

in:

Pharmacy

Stomatology/Dentistry

o Master of Professional Studies in:

Public Health and Hospital

Management

Faculty of Engineering

o Bachelor of:

Electronics

Informatics

Information Technology


Electronic Engineering

Informatics Engineering

Engineering of Information

Technologies

Faculty of Economics

o Bachelor of:

Business Management

Public Administration

Finance


Business Management

Public Administration

Finance


Finance – Accounting

Faculty of Law and Social Sciences

o Bachelor of:

Law,


Primary Education Teaching

Communication Sciences

Psychology

Sociology (second and third

year)


Civil Law

Public Law

Criminal Law


Clinical Counseling

Psychology


Education

Faculty of Arts

o Bachelor of:

Guitar

Percussion

String Instruments (Violin,

Viola, Cello, Contrabass)

Wind Instruments ((Clarinet,

Oboe, Flute, Cornet, British

Cornet, Tuba, Trumpet,

Trombone, Saxophone)

Piano

Accordion

Vocal Art (Classical Canto,

Modern Canto)

Composition

Musicology

Conducting

Painting

The organization of any study program (years, semesters, weeks, credits, etc.).

1 academic year = 30 teaching weeks in the auditorium

1 semester = 15 teaching weeks in the auditorium

1 ECTS = 25 working classes of the student

1 class = 60 minutes

Lectures: 6 - 12 hours in auditorium and 19 - 13 hours of student independent work

Seminars: 6 - 8 hours in auditorium and 19 - 17 hours of student independent work

Laboratory: 18 - 25 hours in auditorium and 7 - 0 hours of student independent work

Class Practice (exercises:) 12 - 18 hours in auditorium and 13 - 7 hours of student independent work

32

Professional Practice: 1 - 2 hours in auditorium and 24 - 23 hours of student

independent work

Final Test: 1 - 2 hours in auditorium and 24 - 23 hours of student independent work

Year academic plans, the division of subjects in credits, and according to the forms of teaching

(verify the data according to Table 10)

Academic Plans, related to the relevant academic staff (verify the data according to Table 11)


Academic plans in Albanian language have been attached to the self-assessment

report



criterions

I - OFFERED STUDY PROGRAMS Standard I.1 - Institution offers programs in accordance with its mission and infrastructure conditions.

Criterion 1 Institution provides opportunities for the public to be informed about offered study programs; Criterion 2 Institution maintains constant contacts with secondary education institutions of where its students completed their education; Criterion 4 Institution pursues a clearly defined policy for students' admission in accordance with study programs that it offers (the areas covered by study programs, admission policies of foreign students, distance learning, etc.). Criterion 5 Study programs offered by Institution are organized so as to harmonize all their components; Criterion 6 Requirements used for testing students' skills are reviewed and classified by institution collegial bodies.

The institution has defined its mission

and objectives in its statute. The institution provides a website with

thorough information about the mission,

offers and its programmes in Albanian

and somewhat less information in

English language. Information about admission criteria as well as exam

schemes is stipulated in the Academic

Regulation.

Annual open days are held to inform

potential students about the offers of the

institution. These events are organized in collaboration with the students’

organisation (student government).

The standard is met

Standard I.2 – Life-long learning is an integral part of study programs.

Criterion 1 Institution offers Life-long learning study programs (short-term specializations, supplementation, deepening and updating of knowledge) as a form of lifelong learning; Criterion 2 Study programs are organized to meet the needs of different categories of students (part-time studies, etc.). Criterion 3 Institution proposes a framework to evaluate gained experiences.

While there is no specific strategy for

integrating lifelong learning as an explicit

item into study programmes, the HEI

confirms that a number of programmes are offered in the afternoon. In fact, the

majority of Master’s degree students

pursue their degree in parallel to a

working commitment.

The standard is substantially met.

Standard I.5 - Study programs are offered in accordance with institution capacities.

Criterion 1 Teaching load of lecturers is assigned in accordance with criteria set in bylaws in force; Criterion 2 Additional teaching load of lecturers is financed by institution's own resources; Criterion 3 Study programs are organized in such a way as to provide for academic staff effective harmonization, of teaching load, scientific research work, administrative commitments, etc.

The university management, including

HR management, confirms that a needs analysis in terms of teaching load is

made at the beginning of each semester.

Subsequently, open positions are

published in order to guarantee full

staffing in accordance with the legal

rules. Full-time teaching staff is generally supported (e.g. financially) in pursuing

further education as well as participating

in international conferences. In some

cases, specific arrangements are

concluded in the work contracts to this

33

regard. The standard is met.

Standard I.6 - Study programs are easily understandable and objectives are clearly defined.

Criterion 1 The content of study programs, curricula, syllabuses, etc. is available to students and is accessed by them easily; Criterion 2 Study programs objectives are clearly defined; Criterion 3 Students' admission criteria are clearly defined by Institution.

The overall objectives of study programmes are defined and published in

the self-evaluation report. Additionally,

students confirmed that they are

informed about the intended learning

outcomes (though without being award of this terminology) and that syllabus-

information is available for all

programmes and related courses on offer.

Admission criteria are defined in the

Academic Regulations.

The standard is met.

Standard I.7 - Programs of first cycle studies aim at providing students with basic knowledge on methods of general scientific principles.

Criterion 1 study programs allow a progressive transition from the first cycle to the second cycle studies; Criterion 2 Study programs ensure successful completion of first cycle and admission to the second cycle; Criterion 3 Programs of first cycle studies provide students with basic knowledge, general scientific methods and principles and specific molding skills; Criterion 4 Students are informed and guided about the possibility of transfer of study programs or credits received during their studies; Criterion 5 Study programs of this cycle are drafted in such a way that students who complete the first cycle have opportunities for employment.

The first cycle degree programmes on offer are organised using the ECTS

system and related stipulations. The

content of the programmes cannot be

thoroughly judged as no information is

available in English. However, this will be

part of programme accreditation processes. Generally, the institution

confirms that upon completion, students

have acquired sufficient skills and

knowledge to pursue either a second

cycle degree or an employment offer. Students confirm that they feel prepared

for both pathways while a majority seeks

to continue with a second cycle degree.

The standard is substantially met.

Standard I.8 - Programs of first cycle studies are compiled in such a way that facilitate student's acclimatization with university environment.

Criterion 1 Institution follows supporting policies for students progress; Criterion 2 Institution follows supporting policies for students through orientation activities and custody (tutorship); Criterion 3 Institution applies alternative teaching methods depending on its students' interests; Criterion 4 Institution recruits with priority the academic staff that engages in scientific research activities; Criterion 5 Academic staff employed with full time comprises at least 70% of staff committed to realize first cycle academic programs.

The members of the institution confirm

that good direct relations exist between

students and teaching staff and that the latter are always accessible for

supporting students with any problems.

There is also a mentoring system in place

in which mentors are designated for

students of each year. The student government also facilitates relations

between students and lecturers and is an

effective means of ensuring that problems

are resolved.

Academic staff is confirmed to be

supported. As the information is provided only in

Albanian language, it cannot fully be

assessed whether the required ratio of

full-time staff is achieved.

The standard is substantially fulfilled.

Standard I.9 - Second cycle programs are based on research and institution collaborates with actors in the economic field for their realization. Criterion 1 Lecturers who engage in research activities comprise most of academic staff; Criterion 2 Academic staff that engages in research activity participates in study programs drafting and implementation;

The state of research activities in most of

the faculties cannot be fully assessed

based on the information available. It seems that research activities are

34

Criterion 3 "Master of Science" study programs are drafted in support of universities' research policies; Criterion 4 Professional Practice and draft thesis of students are conducted in cooperation with private sector and state companies; Criterion 5 Institution owns statistical data for employment of its graduates; Criterion 6 In teaching and research programs of "Professional Master" studies, Institution involves also representatives from business or other fields; Criterion 7 Academic staff employed with full time comprises at least 70% of staff committed to realize the second cycle academic programs.

somewhat limited and that a focus is on teaching. The fact that some lecturers

pursue PhD degrees is one possible

contribution to research activities but not

sufficient. It also remains unclear to

which degree real research is linked to

the degree programmes. The best examples of research activities, including

the provision of the necessary lab

equipment, are shown in the

pharmaceutical department which might

serve as a model for other departments. The standard is somewhat fulfilled with

room for improvement.

Standard I.10 - Study programs aim to promote Albanian students' mobility in Europe and beyond.

Criterion 1 Study programs are offered in line with Bologna Process in successive cycles under the system: Bachelor, Master, Doctorate (BMD); Criterion 2 The curriculum is organized to provide sufficient information for a foreign observer (presentation of its content is detailed, organized in modules and assessed in European credits under the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), also available in English); Criterion 3 Diplomas issued at the completion of study programs of first cycle, second cycle or integrated are associated with diploma supplement/appendix; Criterion 4 Study programs are designed to facilitate students' mobility; Criterion 5 Learning foreign languages is in line with the studies' internationalization policy. Students of the second and third study programs undergo the exam of English language, on the basis of internationally known tests. Institution promotes Albanian language learning by foreign students; Criterion 6 Credits awarded in a foreign institution of Higher Education in the framework of a mutual agreement are transferred without review. HEIs provide opportunities to transfer credits awarded at home or abroad, through equivalence of parts or complete study programs in terms of the right to continue education in the same or similar study program in a counterpart institution.

The degree programmes on offer are in line with the cyclical system and make

use of Bologna tools such as ECTS. While

the term of diploma supplement was

unknown to students, it is confirmed that

such a document is issued upon graduation.

Degree programmes include mandatory

foreign language modules and the

institution is in the process of setting up

double degree programmes.

Whether actual student mobilities take place could not be assessed thoroughly.

The standard is substantially fulfilled.

Standard I.11 - Study programs provide practical application of knowledge and skills acquired by students in theoretical courses. Criterion 1 Study programs are organized in such a way as to enable application in practice of skills acquired in theoretical courses; Criterion 2 Application of evaluation system in European credits (ECTS) is effective; Criterion 3 Study programs include also preparation and presentation of scientific research projects of students, under the regulation of studies (diploma topic, thesis, dissertation); Criterion 4 Institution follows supporting policies for students' participation in cultural and educational activities organized by Institution.

Practical placements of several weeks are

included in all degree programmes. The preparation of a diploma thesis is also

mandatory.

Similarly, resources for students’

recreational activities (e.g. gymnasium,

theatre) are provided.


II - ORGANIZATION OF STUDY PROGRAMS Standard II.1 – Announced study programs are applied in appropriate conditions. Criterion 1 Institution ensures efficient organization and documentation of study programs curriculum; Criterion 2 Institution coordinates the work of academic staff to ensure coherence content;

Curricula are developed in cooperation

with the curriculum office and revised

annually. Resources are currently sufficient. Practical placements are

35

Criterion 3 Institution provides sufficient capacity for the realization of practical professional molding of students (laboratory work, laboratory modules, practical lessons in objects, supervised professional practice, etc..). Criterion 4 Institution supervises practices, internships and research works (preparation of projects, topics of diplomas, theses, etc.) Criterion 5 Institution makes available to students the necessary supporting literature for relevant study program.

supervised. A library is available. The standard is fulfilled.

Standard II.2 - Higher education institutions provide students who have passed all obligations of a study program, with relevant diploma, which is an official document. Criterion 1 Examination rules and requirements are approved by responsible university structures and they are known to everyone through the regulation of examinations announced publicly; Criterion 2 Institution makes known (posting in visible places) graduation criteria and procedures; Criterion 3 Anonymity is respected during the correction of examinations; Criterion 4 Complaints against examinations' scores are reviewed by a committee set up in compliance with examinations' regulation; Criterion 5 Students have access to personal exam scores, by observing the confidentiality principle.

Examination rules are stipulated in the

Academic Regulations which are

published and available.


Standard II.3 - Study programs are subject to continuous improvement in order to increase their quality.

Criterion 1 Lecturers are regularly assessed by institution structures that pursue qualitative implementation of study programs; Criterion 2 Students are involved in evaluation of lecturers and study programs implementation; Criterion 3 Outcomes of examinations and competitions are published; Criterion 4 Study programs are improved by taking into account the outcomes of their evaluation by academic staff and students; Criterion 5 Study programs quality is evaluated also by statistics of employment of graduates in the relevant study program.

Some elements of quality assurance for

study programmes are in place such as

student evaluations, teacher-to-teacher

evaluation and reviews by the head of

departments. There are not structured tools for improving the programmes

based on these elements, though. In any

case such tools and procedures are not

documented or have not been made

available to external reviewers. Statistics on graduate employment are

not yet available.

The standard is partially fulfilled with

room for improvement.

Conclusions of EEG: Most standards are at least substantially fulfilled. There is room for improvement with regard to standards I.9 and II.3. (linking research to teaching and learning, quality management) which is

described above and below.

9. Teaching process

Description Part

The institution makes use of several forms of teaching such as lectures, seminars, exercises,

laboratories, excursions, practical placements, group works and course assignment.

Furthermore, open lectures and lectures from foreign experts are on offer. The forms of

teaching are developed by the lecturers in cooperation with the heads of department and the

curriculum office. Teaching material is made available by the lecturers and in the library.

Student workload is calculated in line with the ECTS-Handbook. Exam regulations are stipulated in the Academic regulations. The evaluation of teaching has been described in

section 7.


36

Student’s workload, separated by the forms of teaching (verify the data according to Table 12)

Table 12

The workload for the different teaching forms is detailed in section 8.

Policies for Learning Outcomes control (verify the data according to Table 13)

Table 13

Study programs at the Faculty of Medical Sciences

Learning outcomes control Share (in %) to the total

Subject attendance and active participation 10%

Implementation of obligations (laboratory, course assignments ) 10%

Intermediate tests 10%

Final exam 70%

Total 100%

Study programs at the Faculty of Engineering

Forms of learning outcomes control Share (in %) to the total


Implementation of obligations (laboratory, course assignments ) 10%, 15%

Intermediate tests 25%2

Final exam 70%

Total 100%

Study programs at the Faculty of Law and Social Sciences




Final exam 70%

Total 100%

Study programs at the Faculty of Economics




Final exam 70%

Total 100%

Study programs at the Faculty of Arts




Final exam 70%

Total 100%

2 For the subjects of general formation (Algebra, Numerical Analysis etc.)

37

Students’s participation in the research activities of the University / Faculty / etc. (verify the data

according to Table 14)

Table 14

Scientific research activities in HEIs Number of Students’s

participation For individual scientific research of teacher 100

For scientific research, at Department level 300

For research projects, at Faculty level 500

For research projects, in collaboration with HEI / other institutions 250

These figures refer to the institution as a whole for the academic year 2012/2013.



Standards/Criterion Evaluation according to standards/

criterions

Standard I.12 - Study programs aim at preparing students for employment. Criterion 1 Study programs offer special modules with true professional character and knowledge from socio-economic areas; Criterion 2 Study programs include knowledge about entrepreneurship, professional practices, internships, etc..; Criterion 3 Study programs in medical, technical, agricultural, natural sciences include sufficient modules and time for practical, professional molding (laboratory work, laboratory modules or projects, professional practice in objects, etc..).

All programmes on offer include

mandatory practical placements, which

take place in companies, clinics or

administration, depending on the

subject area of the programmes. Teaching laboratories are available for

the programmes in medical, technical

and natural sciences as well as arts.

Standard II.4 - Institution pursues a clear policy for improvement of teaching quality. Criterion 1 Institution has a support structure that promotes continuous teaching improvement; Criterion 2 Institution has supporting mechanisms for experimentation in teaching; Criterion 3 Institution qualifies academic staff in the field of scientific research to help improve teaching further Criterion 4 Academic staff is trained continuously to improve teaching; Criterion 5 Institution is responsible for teaching quality; Criterion 6 Institution makes available the necessary infrastructure to realize study programs; Criterion 7 Academic staff, teaching-scientific supporting staff and administrative staff are committed to improve teaching and application of study programs.

While the HEI stipulates in the

contracts with some full time teachers

that further academic degrees are to be

pursued, there is on consistent documented policy to this regard.

Nevertheless, academic staff confirmed

that budget is available to participate in

academic conferences. Furthermore,

staff members confirm that they are encouraged to use different teaching

methods, for example group works and

case studies.

From the discussions, a great

commitment to providing high quality

teaching was felt from the majority of staff.

The infrastructure is sufficient.


Standard III.5 - Institution offers basic and support literature for students.

Criterion 1 Institution provides quality textbooks and supplementary literature in sufficient quantity; Criterion 3 Institution has a library that offers literature for students;

While the library does not seem

particularly large or extensive, is

currently being extended. This seems essential in order to guarantee both a

sufficient number of literature

resources for teaching and learning as

38

well as for research. The standard is partially fulfilled.

Conclusions of EEG The standards are substantially fulfilled. It is essential that the library is expanded both in terms

of breadth and depth of the literature available in order to guarantee a sufficient standard for

teaching and research.

10. Students and alumni

Description Part

The student enrolment procedures are stipulated in the regulations. During the discussions,

it becomes evident that the quality of the new students depends on the national system

according to which the students with the best high school results typically choose public

rather than private higher education institutions. The institution attempts to avoid this situation for example by offering scholarships for qualified students.

The institution aims at offering degree programmes in subject areas for which there is a

need of graduates in the Albanian labour market. To this regards, some of the programmes

are intended to fill niches and thus provide a unique offer of education within the country.


Admission procedures for new students (verify the data according to Table 15)

Table 15

Study programes Admission procedures, specific

requirements

BSc

Admission procedures and

requirements are stipulated in article 26 of the Statutes in

combination with article 33 of

the Academic Regulations. The

completion of High School

Studies/State Matura or equivalent foreign studies is

mandatory.

MSc


requirements are stipulated in

article 27 of the Statutes in

combination with article 35 of

the Academic Regulations. Completion of a First Cycle

degree is mandatory.

MA


requirements are stipulated in

article 27 of the Statutes in

combination with article 35 of the Academic Regulations.

Completion of a First Cycle

degree is mandatory.

PM

DR/PhD

Long term postgraduate specializations

programs (LPS)

Two years diploma

Statistics (verify the data according to Table 16)

39

Table 16

Table 17

Data for student’s mobility

Data for student’s employment (verify the data according to Table 18)

Table 18

These statistics were not made available in English.



III - STUDENTS: FROM REGISTRATION TO EMPLOYMENT Standard III.1 - Institution pursues a correct policy for admission of new students.

Criterion 1 Institution designs midterm development projects in accordance with students admission policies; Criterion 2 Institution informs future students (secondary school graduates) for study programs that it provides through career counseling office; Criterion 3 Institution welcomes and pursues specific policies for absorption and integration of new students; Criterion 4 Institutions are linked to Regional Education Directorates and Education Offices; Criterion 5 Institution establishes separate structures for reception, information and admission of new students; Criterion 6 Institution pursues a policy of welcoming foreign students interested to attend offered study programs; Criterion 7 Institution publishes reception time for students in order to meet students' needs; Criterion 8 Numerical ratio of academic staff / student is such as to ensure education quality and institution objectives. For study programs that include laboratory work, teaching practices and specific occupations (arts, sports, etc..) such ratio is 1 to 8, whereas for other programs and studies, this ratio is 1 to 20. For research programs that include practical lab-work (in fields of study such as medicine, nursing, engineering, teaching, etc.), Education Institution provides 1 instructor / laboratory assistant for 60 students (1 supporting staff for 3 lecturers).

Information for new students is made

available, for example in the form of open

days and through direct connections to

some high schools. Some relations with foreign institutions facilitate the

exchange with international students.

Regulations for admission are published

and documents about students

admission and study progress is kept both in electronic and paper format.

The ratio between students and academic

staff comply with the rules according to

oral confirmation during the visit (no

data available in English). As far as can be judged, the standard is fulfilled.

Standard III.2 - Institution pursues a policy for informing students and guarantees communication between them and academic staff. Criterion 1 Institution has a structure of information and counseling for students; Criterion 2 Institution owns external communication means; Criterion 3 Institution owns internal communication means; Criterion 4 Institution staff has an internal email address; Criterion 5 Institution holds personal file of each student; Criterion 6 Institution owns the address (including electronic address) and phone number of each student.

The student secretariat was visited and it was confirmed that data (addresses,

study progression, exam grades etc.) is

kept both in electronic and printed

versions.

Counselling is available mostly through

mentors and the career office. The standard is fulfilled.

Standard III.3 - Institution pursues a policy of orientation and mentoring for students.

Criterion 1 Institution has a framework for guiding and advising students; Criterion 2 Institution engages in information and orientation of students;

Information about the institution and the

programmes is available. Guidance for students is provided by mentors and the

career office. The rules for transfer and

40

Criterion 3 Study programs enable progressive adaptation of students with the study program; Criterion 4 Institution makes available to students information materials or brochures; Criterion 5 Institution guides students wishing to change study programs and documents the process; Criterion 6 Structure for guiding and advising students supports them in all cycles of study that Institution provides.

recognition are stipulated in the academic regulations.


Standard III.4 - Institution pursues a support policy for specific social categories.

Criterion 1 Institution pursues a policy of support for students with disabilities; Criterion 2 Institution pursues a policy of support for Roma students and Balkan Egyptians; Criterion 3 Institution pursues a policy of support for students engaging in sports activities at high levels; Criterion 4 Institution pursues a policy of support for students wishing to pursue part-time studies.

During the visit it was confirmed that all

legal requirements for students with

disabilities or from certain ethnic

backgrounds are fulfilled. The institution

offers scholarships and part-time studies in order to facilitate access to the

programmes for different groups of

students.


Standard III.5 - Institution offers basic and support literature for students. Criterion 2 Institution has a structure for documentation maintenance; Criterion 4 Institution enriches library literature steadily; Criterion 5 Institution estimates funds for purchase of specialized literature in scientific research field; Criterion 6 Institution offers multidisciplinary literature through the library; Criterion 7 Library working time is posted on institution premises; Criterion 8 Student has a card for registration and literature provision; Criterion 9 Library provides electronic materials.

The library is currently being expanded.

Opening times and accessibility are

adequate. Teaching staff confirmed that requested literature is purchased without

reservations. Nevertheless, the library

overall seems rather small and it is

recommended to extend its stock,

specifically in terms of literature suitable for high level research.

The standard is partially met.

Standard III.6 - Institution offers support to first-cycle students through university services to facilitate their performance.

Criterion 1 Institution provides leadership and tutorship for students (tutors); Criterion 2 Institution assists and guides students how to find literature. Criterion 3 Institution offers courses at its premises to help students in difficulty.

In addition to the option of discussing directly with lecturers, a mentoring

system has been set up. Library staff is

available to help students.


Standard III.7 - Institution encourages students' participation in institutional life.

Criterion 1 Students are represented in governing bodies of Higher Education Institutions, structures of teaching-research and services; Criterion 2 Student Councils express opinions and proposals for all problems of general interest of Higher Education Institutions as educational plans and research programs, study regulations, etc.. Criterion 3 Institution supports student councils and finances their activities.

The establishment of a student council is

foreseen in the statutes. The members of the student government confirm that

they are satisfied with their level of

engagement. Students are members of all

committees of the institution.


Standard III.8 - Institution pursues a policy of support to ensure quality of student life.

Criterion 1 Institution pursues a policy to facilitate student life Criterion 2 Institution supports student's cultural life; Criterion 3 Institution supports students who engage in sports activities organized by its structures and other institutions; Criterion 4 Institution cooperates with health structures to pursue preventive and curative policies to help students' health.

Students’ life is facilitated by a number of

resources for sports and health, e.g. the

facilitated access to a clinic on the

campus and at collaborating medical and

judicial institutions.


Standard III.9 - Institution favors students' employment.

41

Criterion 1 Institution has a structure that owns of statistical data on employment of its graduates; Criterion 2 Institution provides assistance for integration into employment; Criterion 3 Academic, teaching and scientific, administrative staff commit to implementing this policy; Criterion 4 Institution follows favoring policies for employment of its graduates.

The institution aims at facilitating students’ employment through the

services of a career office. Nevertheless,

no data has been provided to

demonstrate the success rate of

graduates and it would be

recommendable to establish structured tools such as graduates’ surveys in order

to both gain feedback on the quality of

education as well as demonstrate the

programmes’ success.

The standard is partially fulfilled. Conclusions of EEG The standards in this section are fulfilled with some concern regarding students’ employment. It is

recommended to increase the availability of data about graduate’s whereabouts, both for the

purpose of quality management and for the purpose of accountability.

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH POLICIES

11. Scientific research

Description part

Research activities are mostly bundled in the so-called Scientific-Research & Development

Center of the University (SCRKU) as well as the research centres of each faculty (“Aleks Buda” Center, Faculty of Law and Sociology; ”Center of Collection and Processing of

statistical data”, Faculty of Economics; “Research Center of Information Technology

Application and Automation” /RCITAA, Faculty of Electronics; University Center “Mother’s

and Child’s Health”, Faculty of Medical Sciences; Center for Albanian-US Studies, Faculty of

Law and Social Sciences; Center of Research and Development of Artistic-Cultural activities,

Faculty of Arts. Furthermore, the institution publishes a scientific journal (Scientific Investigations) which is ISBN and ISSN approved. The participation in international

conferences by staff members is encourages as well as the further education in terms of

pursuing PhD programmes.


Data for research (verify the data according to Table 19)

Table 19

Individual planned activities and at institution level during the last five

years

1. Number of publications from the full time HEI academic

staff 50

2. Number of research projects won

3. Number of implemented projects 5

4. Number of scientific activities organized by HEI 20

5. Number of participants in scientific activities within HEI About 100 in

each activity.

6. Number of scientific researches with the teaching process

7. Number of students involved in scientific researches 40

8. Number of National Prizes ---

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CHAPTER II: SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITY Standard I.1 - The Department, as Institution basic unit, highlights its strengths and weaknesses in scientific research field.

Criterion 1 The department is the basic teaching-research unit, which includes homogeneous research fields and groups respective academic disciplines; Criterion 2 Department is organized in educational and research groups. Group may be only for research; Criterion 3 Department promotes, coordinates and manages teaching activities, research or artistic activities, while respecting academic freedom of academic staff and its right to use available material and financial resources to realize the study program; Criterion 4 Department is responsible for the progress of scientific research work of research groups; Criterion 5 Department is supported financially in a transparent and open form by the institution and it is responsible for funding research groups; Criterion 6 Based on work outcomes of research groups, department suggests continuation or termination of cooperation with them.

Research activities seem to

depend mostly on the

motivation and commitment of the single

subject units. While in

some areas, the research

activities are easily

identifiable (e.g. pharmaceutics,

electronics), this has

become less evident for

other areas. While teaching

staffs generally confirms

that research is encourages in their units, there is little

evidence as to its

organisation and

implementation.

The standard is not yet fulfilled.

Standard I.2 - Institution encourages development, dynamism and scientific research.

Criterion 1 Institution supports new scientific research groups and projects; Criterion 2 Institution ensures cooperation with other research structures; Criterion 3 Institution provides interaction between different structures and institutions.

While teaching staffs

generally confirms that

research is encourages in

their units, there is little

evidence as to its actual implementation in most

subject areas and

departments. The examples

given in the self-evaluation

report to not typically

evidence research as would be considered research at

HEIs in the EHEA.

Participation in

conferences and the

invitation of international lecturers cannot be

considered proper

research; neither can, for

example, the organisation

of study tours.

The standard is not yet fulfilled.

Standard I.3 - Institution concentrates on scientific research internationalization.

Criterion 1 Institution is committed to the collection and dissemination of information to its laboratories; Criterion 2 Institution is committed to respond to European bids in the scientific research field; Criterion 3 Institution organizes international conferences or activities in the research field; Criterion 4 Institution participates in international conferences or activities in the research field through academic staff; Criterion 5 Institution signs partnership agreements with foreign institutions of

The institution is in the

process of establishing

double degree programmes

with foreign HEIs and organises as well as

participates in

international conferences.

A scientific journal is also

published internationally.


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higher education; Criterion 6 Institution organizes ceremonial meetings about his achievements in the research field; Criterion 7 Scientific research papers of Institution's academic staff are published in international scientific journals.

Standard I.4 - Institution determines priority areas of scientific research.

Criterion 1 Research departments and groups determine Institution priorities in scientific research; Criterion 2 Institution pursues a policy of support for innovations / inventions; Criterion 3 Institution encourages scientific debate in priority areas of scientific research.

It is unclear how far

specific research areas are

determined. This would

seem an important step into the enhancement of

real research activities.

The standard is not yet

fulfilled.

Standard I.5 - Institution applies scientific research priorities.

Criterion 1 Institution provides means for implementing priorities set by it; Criterion 2 Institution recruits academic staff qualified in scientific research for the strategy of Institution development; Criterion 3 Institution implements priority policies developed in the research field.

The institutional strategy

foresees hiring staff taking

into account their research

activities. However, there is

no evidence as to how this

is actually implemented. The standard cannot yet be

considered fulfilled.

Standard I.6 - Institution provides continuity in the scientific research field.

Criterion 1 Scientific research priorities are the focus of institutional objectives; Criterion 2 Institution pursues a clear activity of scientific research development in relation to its capacity; Criterion 3 Institution pursues a policy of cooperation with national scientific bodies; Criterion 4 Institution provides effective integration of students taking doctorate in scientific research groups; Criterion 5 Institution pursues a policy of young researchers' involvement in research projects; Criterion 6 Institution is committed to designing and implementing regional and national science policies; Criterion 7 Institution pursues a policy of integration for foreign researchers; Criterion 8 Institution pursues a favorable policy for mobility of academic staff engaged in scientific research; Criterion 9 In order to promote quality increase and internationalization of studies, Institution invites foreign academic staff for research and teaching activities for limited periods of time.

As described above, little

evidence is available about actual research activities

and results. Therefore,

most aspects of this

standard cannot be judged.

According to the

information available, principally young lecturer’s

research activities are

encouraged as are

academic mobility and the

attraction of foreign lecturers.

This standard is partially

met.

Standard I.7 - Institution publishes outcomes in research field. Criterion 1 Institution pursues a supporting policy for organization of international seminars and scientific symposia; Criterion 2 Institution pursues a supporting policy for publication of outcomes in scientific research field; Criterion 3 Institution pursues a policy for research culture promotion in a regional and national level.

As mentioned above, the

institution publishes its

own journal and organized

conferences.

The standard is considered fulfilled.

Standard I.8 - Institution pursues a policy of evaluation and transfer of outcomes in research field. Criterion 1 Institution establishes a unit that evaluates the progress of scientific research outcomes; Criterion 2 Institution pursues a policy for promotion of outcomes in scientific research field; Criterion 3 Institution pursues a policy for protection of intellectual property, and good practice in research-publishing activity; Criterion 4 Institution encourages young researchers to undertake personal initiatives in scientific research field; Criterion 5 Institution collaborates with local and foreign business and economic and social factors;

There is no evidence

available on the evaluation

of research activities. All other aspects have been

mentioned above.

The standard cannot be

assessed.

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Criterion 6 Institution has scientific publishing activities; Criterion 7 Institution is informed about scientific research activity of its academic staff.

Conclusions of EEG While the institution principally seems to be interested in research, most of the activities

described would not be considered to be research in comparable HEIs within the EHEA. This

assessment must be based on the evidence available which is somewhat limited. It seems that the breadth and depth of actual research depends largely on the subject area/departments and

their staff members. Thus the establishment of a Scientific Research Center and the publication

of a journal are recommendable steps in the right direction. In order to provide a sustainable

research basis for high quality degree programmes, particularly at Master’s level, a more in-depth

research policy would be recommendable.

12. National and international cooperation and relations with the public

Description part

The institution describes contacts with local, national and international institutions,

companies and governmental organisations, both on personal as well as on an

institutionalized level. Relations to the labour market in Albania are quite good, not least to

other partners and companies within the holding. Staff mobility is encouraged in principle.

The institution is in the process of setting up double degree programmes in cooperation with foreign universities. The most advanced project is that with the University of Sienna, Italy.


Data for national and international cooperation (verify the data according to Table 20)

Individual scientific activities and / or institution level, in the framework of international cooperation in the past

five years The number

1 The number of the members of staff who participate in qualification cooperation and specialization programs.

30 from Tirana University (sports

teams), 50 from Statistics Institute, 5

from Ministry of Labor and Social

Affairs, 10 from Conrad Adenauer

Foundation, 10 from Friedrich Ebert

Foundation.

2

The number of members of staff who have been engaged as an invited/teaching guest to teaching, seminars, in cooperation

a. In universities and other academic institutions of the country;

b. In universities and other foreign academic institutions

426 classes

3 Number of foreigners visitors to HEI, for purposes of teaching, research, and cooperation;

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4 The number of training courses organized for other parties outside the Higher Education Institutions (long life learning qualification).

5

The number of members of academic staff who are members in professional organizations;

a. Country b. International

15 modern laboratories and 5

scientific cabinets owned within the

premises of the University,

agreements with foreign Universities

for the use of their laboratory basic

resources and agreements with the

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local government units for the use of

database, questionnaires etc.

6 The number of international Price 38

7 The number of students involved in research We have not received any prizes in

competitions abroad.

Comunication and cooperation with the business community and the labor market (verify the

data according to Table 21)

Table 21

Collaborating Institutions and Organizations

Collaborating Governmental Institutions Type of Cooperation

1 Academy of Sciences Cooperation Agreements in the field of

Scientific Research.

2 Institute of Sociology

Cooperation in the field of scientific research

and social studies, organization of seminars

and workshops.

3 Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs

Cooperation in the field of integration of

national minorities, mainly of population of

people of color.

4 Statistics Institute

Cooperation in the field of data collection for

national projects and experts for training

sessions.

Professional Organizations Type of cooperation

1 ASAN

Cooperation Agreements in the framework of

employment of Albanian students who have

completed their studies abroad

2 Albanian Institute of Public Relations Joint projects with students in support of

elderly people.

3 ISC, Institute of Social Communication

Cooperation Agreements for “Implementation

of Employment Policies through operational

NGO network”, in Tirana, Durrës and Fier.

4 Albanian Union for Life Quality

Cooperation Agreements in all fields of

activity of this Union. Projects for children in

need with families of low incomes, projects for

young disabled persons, projects for children

of color.

Award of scholarships for the young people

from these communities.

Business community, labor market Type of cooperation

1 Company “Stefani & Co” Cooperation Agreements for the internship of

students and their employment.

2 ABCOM Company Cooperation Agreements for the internship of


3 Tring Company Cooperation Agreements for the internship of


4 Mobile Phone Company “Plus” Cooperation Agreements for the internship of


5 Legal Studio “Kushe” Cooperation Agreements for the internship of


6 Legal Studio “Visha” Cooperation Agreements for the internship of

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7 Forensic Cabinet “Fisher & Spitz” Cooperation Agreements for the internship of


8 Italian-Albanian Bank Cooperation Agreements for the internship of


9 International Bank Cooperation Agreements for the internship of




III – PARTNERSHIP Standard III.2 - Institution pursues an open strategy of collaboration and partnership in a regional, national and international level.

Criterion 4 Institution collaborates with regional partners in the framework of cooperation strategy implementation; Criterion 5 Institution organizes and formalizes agreements with counterpart institutions of higher education.

The collaboration with regional partners is

confirmed to be good.

While the institution has

signed a number of

agreements with foreign universities, it is not clear

to which these are actually

made use of for student or

staff mobility.

The standard is

substantially fulfilled.

Standard III.3 - Institution pursues a cooperation strategy of with other supporting institutions.

Criterion 1 Institution collaborates with other instances to provide services to students; Criterion 2 Institution collaborates with other instances to meet its needs for realization of study programs.

As mentioned, the

institution collaborates

with a number of health clinics, legal clinics as well

as companies.

The standard can be

considered fulfilled.

Standard III.4 - Institution pursues a favoring policy for mobility of academic personnel and students in an international level.

Criterion 1 Institution participates in international activities; Criterion 2 Institution pursues a favoring policy for mobility of academic staff and students; Criterion 3 Institution pursues an integration policy for foreign students; Criterion 4 Institution pursues an integration policy for foreign invited academic staff and researchers.

Principally the university

encourages mobility but the actual use of this offer

seems low. Similarly, the

actual number of foreign

students and foreign

academic staff is quite low. It is recommendable to

pursue this policy in a

more systematic manner.

The standard can be

considered substantially

fulfilled.

Conclusions of EEG While the standards are substantially fulfilled on paper, the extent to which cooperations are

used is unclear and could likely be increased. This would mean a more systematic approach to

both outbound and inbound mobility of students and staff as well as cooperation with the

industry.

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SWOT analysis on the activity of the Institution of Higher Education

Strengths

1. Solid financial base, principally ensuring the possibility to update equipment for teaching and

learning as well as research

2. Commitment of management to providing high quality education

3. Principally the resources available (teaching rooms)

Weaknesses

1. Number of full-time staff compared to number of part-time staff

2. Actual research activities

3. Depth and breadth of literature available at the library for research

4. Systematic approach to quality management, particularly with view to closing loops

Opportunities

1. Wide range of subject areas covered by degree programmes

2. Principal interest in quality assurance

Threats

1. Dependency on owner of company (financially)

2. Admission of students with weak qualifications

3. Sustainability of offer

Recommendations

1. It is recommended to professionalize the internal quality management system in order to ensure

continuity of the activities and the systematic closing of feedback loops.

2. It is recommended to ensure the sustainability of the programs by carefully monitoring the paths of

graduates and their inclusion into the labour market.

3. It is recommended to enhance real research activities and ensure the provision of necessary

resources for research.

External Evaluation Group:

1. Jana Möhren

2. Adela Shera

External Evaluation Report Universiteti Kristal...

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