On September 2, 1909, Elbasan National Congress commenced, marking a pivotal moment for Albania. This important assembly led to key decisions about the expansion of Albanian schools and the promotion of the Albanian language.

Organized by the Albanian club of Selanik (Thessaloniki), 35 delegates from various Albanian clubs and societies took part in the proceedings. Prominent attendees included O. Pojani, Grigor Cilka, Gj. and S. Qirjazi, Mit’hat Frashëri, Dervish Biçaku, Refik Toptani, A. Dakli, H. Ohri, Abdullah Koprëncka, Th. Papapano, N. Kaçori, S. Shuteriqi, and Selman Blloshmi.

The congress resolved to establish a six-class Albanian pedagogical (Normalja) school in Elbasan to train teachers for Albanian primary schools, with funding from all Albanian clubs and societies.

Additionally, it decided to create the central educational society “Përparimi” (The progress) in Korça. This society would manage the normal school, work on opening more Albanian schools, and publish Albanian books and texts. The congress also sought official recognition of the “Përparimi” society from the Ottoman government.

Resolutions of the Elbasan Congress significantly advanced the Albanian national movement.

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