He walked several kilometers every day for his three students — the heart of a heroic teacher stops

A tragic incident has been reported in the Maliq area, where a teacher suddenly passed away after reportedly suffering a heart attack. The teacher is believed to have been around 52 years old and was identified as Alban Bejleri. For years, he showed great dedication to his profession, working in the village of Marjan, a remote area of Maliq, while living in Devoll.

Every day, he walked several kilometers on foot to reach the school, as it was impossible for a vehicle to access the village.

He did this to teach the only three students studying there.

According to preliminary information, after finishing his lesson and while returning to his car as usual, his heart suddenly stopped, and he passed away on the spot. He was later found by village residents, who notified the authorities. Investigations are ongoing to fully clarify the circumstances.

A statement was issued by the Local Education Office of Maliq, expressing deep sorrow for the loss and highlighting his 20 years of experience in education. They noted that he had worked for six years in the villages of the Gorë administrative unit, where he was highly respected by students and the community for his dedication, professionalism, and human values.

“We received with great sadness the news of the sudden passing of our respected colleague, teacher Alban Bejleri, due to a cardiac arrest. With 20 years of experience in education, he was known for his commitment, cooperation, and the values he represented,” the statement read, also extending condolences to his family, including his parents, wife, and children, as well as friends and colleagues.

In an interview, his close friend Artur Vrenozi shared his grief:

I’ve known Alban for years. When I heard the news yesterday, I couldn’t believe it. When I went to the morgue, I realized he was truly gone. He was a role model. He previously worked at the high school in Bilisht, then in the village of Mjaltëz, and later in Marjan, teaching just a few students.

I have accompanied him myself. In Mjaltëz, he would walk up to six hours; here, at least 3–4 hours. From Bilisht by car, then on foot, just to teach students. A great sacrifice. What he did is rare. He came from a family of intellectual teachers. Even now, as I speak, I find it hard to believe. He had been suffering from diabetes for years but was under treatment. His dedication to educating students was extraordinary.”