During Integrity Week 2025, students from various schools in Albania carried a powerful message about integrity and transparency. Within the framework of the Council of Europe project Strengthening Democratic Citizenship Education in Albania, activities were carried out focusing on the creativity and voice of young people. Under the motto “Schools for Integrity: Young people speak out through art”, the activities aimed to promote the values ​​of active citizenship and transparency both in school and in society.

A key activity was the interactive debate, attended by more than 50 students and teachers from high schools in Tirana and Elbasan. Organized in a “world café” format, the debate offered young people the opportunity to discuss ethical dilemmas and reflect on the importance of integrity in decision-making processes. Throughout the discussions, participants generated new ideas, highlighting the role of integrity in everyday life and in the challenges they face at school. Representatives from public institutions, the private sector and civil society organizations also participated in the debate, enriching the discussion with their experiences and suggestions.

Furthermore, the exhibition "Integrity inspires - young people speak through art" captured the attention of all visitors. The students' artworks, including paintings and other creative pieces, reflected the values ​​of integrity and efforts towards a more honest society. Students used art as a means to express their thoughts on the importance of integrity, not only in schools, but also in everyday life. The exhibition, which was held at the Centre for Openness and Dialogue, was addressed by Giulia Re, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Tirana, Adea Pirdeni, Minister of State for Public Administration and Anti-Corruption, Orjana Osmani, Deputy Minister of Education, and Nicholas A. Rana, Chair of the International Chamber of Commerce in Albania.

During the exhibition, students had the opportunity to present their works and discuss with visitors the message they intended to convey. In addition to the exhibition, participants also enjoyed essays on integrity and received certificates of appreciation for their contribution. This engagement was accompanied by a sharing of ideas and an exchange of inspirations, strengthening the commitment of young people to a more open and democratic society.

The activities were organized by the Council of Europe project, in cooperation with the Ministry of State for Public Administration and Anti-Corruption, the Ministry of Education, and the International Chamber of Commerce in Albania, with financial support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).