Some people leave behind titles; others leave behind a legacy that continues to inspire. The newly established Rauf Fico Memorial Scholarship at the American University in Bulgaria (AUBG), offering two €5,000 grants, celebrates the early-20th century Albanian ambassador and politician whose influence extended into education, humanitarianism, and social justice.
The scholarship is the work of distinguished Albanian alumna Edlira Dashi (’10) who wanted to capture the essence of Fico’s enduring legacy.
“Fico was a diplomat, but also a humanitarian, an educator, and a man who used his influence to uplift others. In times of crisis, he chose courage. This scholarship is for students who would do the same,” she said. “AUBG has always been about more than just education—it’s about shaping people who think critically, lead boldly, and stand for something greater than themselves. This scholarship isn’t just about honoring Fico’s past; it’s about inspiring the future.”
The scholarship
The Rauf Fico Memorial Scholarship is open to continuing undergraduate students at AUBG. Two students will receive €5,000 each for their university expenses for the 2025-2026 academic year. AUBG will choose the recipients based on academic merit and alignment with Fico’s values of compassion, leadership, and service. The scholarship aims to support students who embody the principles that guided Fico throughout his life—those who strive to make a meaningful difference in the world. Interested applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their commitment to community engagement, social justice, and humanitarian efforts in their application essays.
A diplomat and humanitarian
Rauf Fico was born in 1881 in Sanaa, Yemen, to the prominent Albanian Fico family of Gjirokastër. He received his education in Shkodra, Vienna, and the Mekteb-i Mülkiye, launching his political career in 1912 as a counselor in the Ministry of the Interior under the Vlora government. His dedication to Albania’s political and societal development began early, co-founding Tirana’s first public orphanage in 1917, which provided shelter and education to orphaned children. Fico played a key role in the Congress of Tiranë and the Congress of Durrës in 1918, helping to secure Albania’s sovereignty after World War I.
Fico’s career continued with significant positions, including serving as Minister of the Interior in 1921 and as a deputy of Durrës. Despite his opposition to the Fascist Italian regime, which led to his resignation as Foreign Minister in 1930, his diplomatic work persisted. He held important posts in Turkey, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Greece, and Germany, where he famously facilitated the escape of Jewish refugees from the Holocaust. Even after being interned in Italy during the Italian invasion of Albania, Fico remained steadfast in his commitment to justice. He passed away in 1944, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends politics and embodies humanitarianism and courage.
Throughout his life, Fico received numerous prestigious awards, including the Grand Cordon of the Order of Franz Joseph, the Order of Leopold, and the Officer of the French Legion of Honor. He was also a recipient of the Palm of the French Academy, the Order of King Boris from Bulgaria, and was named a Doctor Honoris Causa by the Naples Academy.
A lasting legacy
Fico’s legacy lives on not just in history but in the hearts of his family. “For us, Rauf Fico wasn’t just a public figure; he was a moral compass. His belief in education and justice shaped generations, and through this scholarship, it will continue to shape many more,” his great-grandson Neli Demi said.
Albanian Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Igli Hasani also echoes this sentiment, recognizing Fico’s enduring impact.
“Rauf Fico was a distinguished statesman, politician, and diplomat whose unwavering dedication to Albania began with our nation’s declaration of independence. Serving from the very beginning in the first government of independent Albania of 1912, Fico played a pivotal role in laying the foundations of our fledgling state. Throughout his illustrious career, Fico held numerous key positions, including Minister of Interior Affairs and Minister of Foreign Affairs, where he tirelessly advocated for Albania’s interests on the international stage. His diplomatic acumen was instrumental in strengthening our nation’s foreign relations during a critical period in our history. This scholarship stands as a fitting tribute to a man who not only embodied the principles of integrity, dedication, and patriotism but also worked relentlessly to uplift the lives of his fellow citizens. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of leaders committed to advancing these enduring values,” Hasani said.
Applications are open until March 20.
