Part of the Strategy on secondary education and lifelong learning presented

Representatives of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development presented the second part of the Strategy for Education until 2027. At the consultations held in Belgrade and Novi Sad on 4th and 5th June, it was emphasised that the most important innovations in this educational area refer to the development of programmes focused on competencies and qualifications, compulsory high school, the introduction of the state matura and enriched one-shift work.

The Minister of Education, Mladen Šarčević, pointed out that the biggest change would be compulsory secondary education for all, and in order to achieve that, it is firstly necessary to change the Constitution. Speaking about the reform of secondary education, Šarčević emphasised two important elements - the reform of secondary schools, which, as he said, had been waiting for 40 years, and the increased coverage of secondary education, to which the introduction of dual education also contributed.

"Our most important project is certainly the state graduation exam, which will be introduced in 2022 and will mark a complete turning point in the secondary education system." At the same time, it will affect higher education, because it will contribute to the quality of future students, "said the Minister.

Quality education for all is the main goal of the Strategy and refers to all types of secondary education, from general, through art to vocational. Representatives of the Ministry presented to the audience other parts of the Strategy related to the improvement of competency-based teaching, human resource development and lifelong learning.

The consultations were attended by teachers and principals of educational institutions, representatives of professional associations, trade unions and civil society organisations.