The American University in Bulgaria has created a new scholarship named after prominent Albanian diplomat Rauf Fico. The newly established scholarship offers two grants of 5,000 euros each and honors the early 20th-century Albanian ambassador and politician, whose influence extends to education, humanism, and social justice.
An initiative for the future
This scholarship is the fruit of the dedication of a distinguished Albanian former AUBG student, Edlira Dashi, who wanted to embody the essence of Fico's legacy.
“Fico was a diplomat, but also a humanist, an educator, and a man who used his influence to help others. In times of crisis, he chose courage. This scholarship is for students who would do the same,” she said. “AUBG has always been more than an educational institution - it is a place where people are formed who think critically, lead courageously, and stand for something bigger than themselves. This scholarship is not only to honor Fico’s past, but to inspire the future.”
Scholarship details
The Rauf Fico Scholarship is open to undergraduate students at AUBG. Two students will each receive 5,000 euros for their undergraduate expenses for the 2025-2026 academic year. Selection of recipients will be based on academic merit and alignment with Fico’s values: compassion, leadership, and community service. Interested students are encouraged to demonstrate their commitment to community involvement, social justice, and humanitarian efforts in their application essay.
A diplomat and humanist
Rauf Fico was born in 1881 in Sanaa, Yemen, to the prominent Albanian Fico family from Gjirokastra. He was educated in Shkodër, Vienna, and at the Mekteb-i Mülkiye, beginning his political career in 1912 as an advisor to the Ministry of Interior under the government of Ismail Qemali. His commitment to Albania's political and social development was evident early on, when he co-founded the first public orphanage in Tirana in 1917, which provided shelter and education for orphaned children. He played a key role in the Congress of Tirana and the Congress of Durrës in 1918, helping to secure Albania's sovereignty after World War I.
His career included important positions, including Minister of the Interior in 1921 and MP for Durrës. Despite his opposition to the Italian fascist regime, which led to his resignation as Foreign Minister in 1930, his diplomatic work continued. He held important posts in Turkey, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Greece and Germany, where he helped save Jewish refugees from the Holocaust. Even after his exile in Italy during the Italian occupation of Albania, Fico remained steadfast in his commitment to justice. He passed away in 1944, leaving behind a legacy that transcends politics and embodies humanity and courage.
During his lifetime, Fico was honored with many prestigious awards, including the Grand Cordon of the Order of Franz Joseph, the Order of Leopold, the title of Officer of the Legion of Honor of France, as well as the Palme d'Or of the French Academy and the Order of King Boris of Bulgaria. He was also awarded the title of Doctor Honoris Causa by the Academy of Naples.
A legacy that continues
Fico's legacy lives on not only in history, but also in the hearts of his family. "For us, Rauf Fico was not just a public figure; he was a moral compass. His belief in education and justice has shaped generations and through this scholarship, will continue to shape many more," said his great-grandson, Neli Demi.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Albania, Igli Hasani, also praised his continued influence. “Rauf Fico was a distinguished statesman, politician and diplomat, whose commitment to Albania began with the declaration of independence. Serving in the first government of independent Albania in 1912, Fico played a key role in building the foundations of our state. During his distinguished career, he held key positions, such as Minister of Interior and Minister of Foreign Affairs, resolutely defending Albania’s interests in the international arena. This scholarship is a fitting tribute to a man who embodied the principles of integrity, dedication and patriotism. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of leaders committed to advancing these enduring values,” said Hasani. (A2 Televizion)
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