Author: Tatjana Srceva-Pavlovska

On June 20, 2024, the Macedonian American Alumni Association (MAAA), in cooperation with the Faculty of Philology at the University of Tetovo, organized a roundtable honoring the life and oeuvre of Murtezan Arifi, a renowned poet and publicist from Tetovo, within the new literary club established through the project "Alumni encouraging Volunteering and Extra-curricular activities".

The event, held at the premises of the University of Tetovo, featured a meaningful discussion led by university professors Salajdin Salihu (Vice Chancellor), Fatmir Suleimani, Bardul Zaimi, and Berton Suleimani, who reflected on Arifi’s artistic significance and lasting legacy. In attendance were MAAA President Zorica Trajkova Strezovska, management board members Ognen Janeski and Rozita Petrinska-Labudovic, and MAAA member Prof. Bashkim Ziberi, all of whom contributed to the celebration of Arifi’s life and work by donating books to the university’s library on behalf of the organization.

The event was formally opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Philology, Prof. Dr. Berton Sulejmani, who described the roundtable as a valuable opportunity to reflect on the profound contributions of Murtezan Arifi, whose work has enriched Albanian literature.

The panelists each offered their own assessments of Arifi’s literary achievements. Prof. Dr. Salajdin Salihu, Vice-Rector for International Relations, noted that Arifi’s body of work had earned recognition in numerous literary competitions. Prof. Dr. Fatmir Sulejmani praised Arifi’s poetry, noting that while frugal in quantity, it possessed exceptional aesthetic value and enormous depth. Bardhyl Zaimi, MA, expressed his personal admiration, calling Arifi both a true friend and a lasting inspiration to younger generations of writers.

MAAA President Zorica Trajkova Strezovska addressed the panel and audience, emphasizing the significance of the event as part of a broader project supporting alumni in voluntary and extracurricular activities. She expressed hope for continued collaboration on similar initiatives in the future.

Following that, the students from the club closed the celebration by reciting poems by Arifi. The Macedonian American Alumni Association further supported the club by donating books essential to the students' ongoing participation in literary activities.

The roundtable not only celebrated Murtezan Arifi’s literary achievements but also highlighted the importance of cultural collaboration and academic exchange. Events like these foster a deeper understanding of shared heritage and encourage dialogue between different communities. By honoring the life and work of one of Tetovo’s most influential poets, the organizers aimed to inspire future generations to appreciate the value of literature, language preservation, and creative expression. The partnership between the Macedonian American Alumni Association and the University of Tetovo serves as a model for meaningful engagement.