Improving reading and media literacy is a challenge that requires intersectoral cooperation and synergy at all levels, Minister of Culture and Media Tamara Vujović said.
On the occasion of International Literacy Day, she reminded that literacy is a key skill that enables individuals to develop their potential, realize their rights and actively participate in social life.
Vujović said that in Montenegro steps should be taken in order to develop reading skills among children and young people.
"Because improving literacy is a challenge that requires intersectoral cooperation and synergy at all levels," Vujović added.
According to her, the Media Strategy seriously deals with the issue of media literacy of all our citizens.
Vujović recalled the latest results of the PISA test, according to which Montenegrin 15-year-olds have worse reading skills than students a decade ago, which further distanced them from the world average.
As she added, in a world where technology is advancing rapidly and access to information is becoming easier, literacy no longer means only the ability to read and write, but also understanding and critical processing of information.
"We want more children and young people in libraries. Through increasing the offer of books and the organization of attractive programs, we must awaken the love for reading," said Vujović.
According to her, appreciating the importance of librarianship and libraries for every modern democratic society, their informational, cultural, scientific, educational and broader social role, the Ministry of Culture and Media will take significant steps in their additional affirmation in the coming period.
Vujović reminded that in Montenegro there are eight libraries organized as special public institutions, while the other libraries are part of cultural centers, stressing that this is not in accordance with the Law on Library Activity.
She stated that there are significant discrepancies in the work of libraries, as well as in programs that encourage reading habits among children and young people in different municipalities.
"These data clearly indicate that encouraging reading literacy is not equally developed in all municipalities. At all levels, from local self-governments to state bodies, work must be done to affirm reading among children and young people," said Vujović.
She also said that the Media Strategy is aimed at strengthening media literacy among citizens, especially among young people.
Vujović pointed to a public opinion survey that showed that media literacy in Montenegro is at 12,2 out of a possible 25 points.
According to that research, as she added, there is almost absolute agreement among the citizens of Montenegro that media literacy is of great importance (92 percent).
"However, 62 percent of respondents rate citizens' media literacy as poor, and their understanding of the Internet and social networks seems to be at an insufficient level," said Vujović.
She emphasized that education is widely recognized as a key measure for improving media literacy, adding that the Ministry of Culture and Media has taken a number of steps to improve the state of media literacy among citizens.
"As part of the Media Strategy, we have numerous activities that treat the issue of media literacy, as one of the basic skills of the digital age. It is no longer an optional skill in today's world, but is necessary for active participation in modern society," Vujović said.
According to her, the Ministry of Culture and Media is determined in its approach to support the development of media literacy among citizens.
"The issue of media literacy is not only a challenge for our Government or institutions. It is a challenge for every individual in our society," said Vujović.
She called on citizens to take an active role in acquiring media literacy by educating themselves, researching, asking questions and critically analyzing the information they consume.
"That's the only way we can become resistant to manipulation, half-information and disinformation," Vujović said.
She said that it is everyone's duty to promote reading and media literacy as a key element in the development of critical thinking and the ability to make informed decisions.
"This is the only way we will create citizens who are ready to take responsibility and actively participate in society," concluded Vujović.
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