Thousands of university students gathered in Albania’s capital for a second consecutive day of anti‑government protests, confronting police forces on the streets.

The unrest began on Tuesday outside the Ministry of Education, where participants demanded improvements to university conditions and better job prospects.

On Wednesday the protests intensified, with a section of the Education Ministry’s building ignited and several other public facilities attacked.

Authorities reported that the prime minister’s office, as well as the finance and interior ministries, were also hit by demonstrators amid growing anger over the government’s record.

Riot police responded with tear‑gas canisters and water‑cannon fire, while protesters threw stones and firecrackers through the gates of the education ministry.

Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu called on the crowd to restrain themselves, warning that violence would not achieve the desired reforms.

Education Minister Mirela Kumbaro affirmed the right to peaceful demonstration but stressed that attacks on public property could not be tolerated.

Economy Minister Delina Ibrahimaj condemned the arson, noting that setting fire to government buildings endangers lives.

State‑run news agency figures indicate that 16 individuals were detained in connection with the violent incidents on Tuesday.

Opposition leader Sali Berisha praised the students as exceptionally courageous during an evening meeting on Wednesday.