The Future of Education

This study explores the impact of education policies on strengthening teacher authority in Albania, within the broader framework of European integration and EU standards. In EU countries, teachers are recognized not only as knowledge transmitters but also as mentors and pedagogical leaders, balancing pupil autonomy with instructional guidance. These roles are crucial in shaping both the educational system and the overall development of pupils.
Albania has undertaken several reforms to align with this model, yet key discrepancies remain, particularly in the implementation of policies that support teacher authority. A major concern is the country's performance in international assessments. According to PISA 2022, Albania ranked 62nd out of 80 countries, with scores significantly below the EU average: 368 in mathematics, 358 in reading, and 376 in science. These results highlight deep-rooted systemic challenges that affect both pupil outcomes and the professional authority of teachers.
Additionally, the pupil-teacher ratio in Albania stands at 12.8, higher than the EU average of 11.2. This disparity implies heavier workloads for teachers and reduces the time and resources available for individualized support for pupils, ultimately affecting teacher-pupil relationships and the quality of education. Another critical gap is the lack of continuous professional development. Unlike the EU, where ongoing teacher training is systematic and often publicly funded, opportunities for professional growth in Albania remain scarce, limiting pedagogical innovation.To address these issues, the paper proposes a new model focused on reinforcing teacher authority while enhancing pupil autonomy. This includes revising teacher education and training programs, aligning national policies with EU best practices, and institutionalizing professional development. Strengthening the teaching profession through supportive policies is essential for improving educational quality and advancing Albania’s path toward European integration. Such reforms would not only improve the quality of education but also empower teachers to exercise greater authority in the classroom, fostering better educational outcomes for pupils.

Keywords: education policies, teacher authority, pupil autonomy, educational reform, European integration, European Union.