Investing in Albania's Future Generation

Quality Christian education for every child in Tirana. Your support transforms lives.

Your $1 = $2 for Iliria School

Every donation is matched 100% through our 2-year matching grant (2026–2027). Double your impact today.

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The Need

Albania's public education system presents significant challenges that underscore the need for quality alternatives like Shkolla Iliria. State schools operate on half-day schedules from kindergarten through 12th grade, often accommodating 35-45 students per classroom. This structure creates substantial educational quality gaps, as reflected in Albania's performance on international education assessments. Additionally, the abbreviated school day frequently leaves children unsupervised for extended periods, creating both educational and childcare challenges for families. Concurrently, Muslim foundations have been seeking to purchase private schools. In this context, families are faced with a dilemma to choose between poor quality standards and liberal ideology in public schools or Islamic teaching in the acquired private schools.

60%
of students below proficiency
104 pts
below OECD average
$0
gov't funding for evangelical schools

Our Story

Iliria classroom with teacher and students

In 2024, ISTL Foundation — which has equipped Christian leaders through theology and masters in leadership degrees since 2008 — seized the opportunity to purchase a school license in Tirana. Within one year, we’ve transformed operations, standards, and community relationships with integrity and excellence. Our teachers are energized, families are engaged, and around 30% of our families are now actively practicing Christianity — with all families appreciating quality education and character values we deliver. Our first three years are key to our success as we reach our break-even point.

We’re building something unprecedented in Albania: rigorous academics, strong character formation, and genuine Christian witness — accessible to every family regardless of faith background.

Our Approach

Four pillars that set Iliria apart

🎓

Academic Excellence

STEM curriculum, native English instruction, and all materials provided.

🌟

Character Formation

Values of truth, integrity, service, stewardship, forgiveness, and grace.

👥

Personal Engagement

Small classes of 18 or fewer with individualized, whole-child attention.

🤝

Community Impact

Parent workshops, summer camps, and Bible study classes.

Our Impact

Two years of transformation

🎓
100
Students Enrolled
📈
95
Retention Rate (%)
🍽️
38,800
Meals Served
👩‍🏫
25
Dedicated Staff

Our Leadership

Dedicated to excellence and integrity

Hervin Fushekati

Hervin Fushekati

Founder & Executive Director

A prominent Christian pastor and leader in Albania, Hervin was born into a Muslim family and came to faith in Christ at age 17. With over 25 years in ministry, he founded ISTL in 2008 and became director of Iliria School in 2024.

Alba Jani

Alba Jani

Academic Principal

Alba brings extensive experience in international education and the IB curriculum. An ISTL alumna, she is committed to intellectual growth and character development grounded in Biblical values.

“I have confidence that my child is getting a good education that will help them excel in life.”

— Parent, Iliria School

“The teachers genuinely care about my child’s growth — academically and as a person.”

— Parent, Iliria School

“Iliria has become a second family for us. The values they teach carry into our home.”

— Parent, Iliria School

Latest Updates

Follow our journey

Iliria students celebrating

April 2026

Matching Grant Secured

A generous partner has committed to matching every dollar donated 1:1 through our 2026–2027 campaign. Your gift is doubled — bringing us closer to full sustainability for Iliria School.

Students doing hands-on learning

January 2026

Hands-On Learning in Full Swing

Students across all grades are thriving with hands-on projects — from recycling crafts in Grade 2 to multiplication games in Grade 4 and Albanian Independence role plays in Grade 9.

ISTL Graduation 2025

November 2025

New Academic Year & ISTL Graduation

The 2025–2026 year launched with 15 new ISTL students, and we celebrated the graduation of 31 students in October. Heartfelt testimonies reminded us why this mission matters.

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