On February 7, 1941, the distinguished linguist, historian, and educator, Mati Logoreci, passed away.

Born on February 10, 1867, in Shkodër, Logoreci received his early education in his hometown. He later attended the Saverian College in the city for four years, where he acquired knowledge in economics and trade. At a young age, he worked as an apprentice in the trading company of the Parruca family, which had emigrated to Italy. Subsequently, he was assigned as an accountant in Trieste, where he also pursued pedagogical studies.

Upon returning to Albania in 1889, Logoreci was resolute in advancing the nation’s educational development. He spearheaded the establishment of the first Albanian school in Prizren, where he served as a teacher, shaping the minds of future generations. His contributions to the advancement of education were pivotal in Kosovo and northern Albania.

In 1908, Logoreci, along with Father Ndre Mjeda, participated in the Congress of Monastir as a representative of the “Agimi” society. After the declaration of independence, he continued his work as a teacher in Tirana. In 1916, he was appointed an educational official in Shkodër, a role that coincided with his membership in the “Commission for Albanian Literature.” In 1920, he was entrusted with the responsibility of representing Shkodër at the Congress of Lushnja.

On the centenary of the opening of the first Albanian school, Logoreci was honored with the title “Teacher of the People” and was awarded the “Order of Freedom,” Class V, in recognition of his exceptional contributions.

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