The Congress of Manastir, held in the city of Manastir (present-day Bitola, North Macedonia), was a pivotal moment in the development of Albanian national identity and education. It brought together educators, linguists, and activists from across the Albanian regions, including both those in the Ottoman Empire and those in Kosovo and Albania proper. Notable attendees included figures like Naum Veqilharxhi and Aleksandër Stavre Drenova, who played crucial roles in the discussions. The Congress focused on addressing the disparities caused by using different alphabets and dialects among Albanian speakers, which created barriers to education and national unity.The delegates recognized the importance of establishing a common writing system to facilitate communication and foster a sense of belonging among Albanians. After extensive deliberations, the Congress adopted a modified Latin alphabet, replacing the previously used Arabic script and other variations. This decision marked a significant step toward modern education in Albanian and helped promote literacy among the population. The new alphabet was instrumental in the publication of books, newspapers, and educational materials in the Albanian language, further catalyzing a cultural and national revival among Albanians.The Congress also reflected broader trends in the Balkans, where rising nationalism was influencing various ethnic groups within the declining Ottoman Empire. The establishment of an alphabet was not merely a matter of linguistics; it was part of a larger movement for societal reform and national self-determination for the Albanian people. As such, the Congress of Manastir became a landmark event in the history of Albania, laying the groundwork for future cultural and political developments.