Amid rising tensions over education reforms, student demonstrators in Tirana escalated their protests yesterday, resulting in a dramatic blaze that consumed parts of the Ministry of Education building. Witnesses reported thick black smoke billowing from multiple windows as fire crews struggled to contain the flames. The unrest erupted after weeks of peaceful demonstrations demanding increased funding and transparency in university admissions, but clashes between protesters and police intensified overnight. Authorities condemned the violence while promising a full investigation into the cause of the fire, which has left several critical documents damaged or destroyed.

Key developments during the incident included:

  • Deployment of additional riot police to secure the ministry perimeter
  • Temporary closure of…