The Rector of the University of Montenegro (UCG) Vladimir Božović expressed his support for proposals that align the education system with the needs of the labor market and the standards of the European Higher Education Area. He emphasized the importance of dialogue in the working group to find the best solutions.
On the occasion of International Students' Day, Božović met with representatives of the Student Parliament of UCG, led by President Jakov Vukčević, to discuss current issues important to the student population.
The Student Parliament previously announced that it advocates the introduction of the education system in the "3+1+1+3" format, because they believe that the current system (3+2+3) is not compatible with the labor market.
UCG announced that the focus of the meeting was on legal acts, infrastructure projects and student initiatives supported by the University.
At the meeting, which was attended by SPUCG Secretary General Vedran Vujisić and student ombudsman Ivana Popović, changes to the draft of the new Law on Higher Education were discussed.
Representatives of the Student Parliament emphasized the need for the transitional and final provisions of the Act to allow the issuance of diplomas or certificates to students of two-year master's studies after the first year, which would facilitate the recognition of their qualifications on the labor market.
Božović supported the initiative to establish mediation centers in student affairs in order to increase transparency and reduce abuses.
Infrastructure projects were the central topic of discussion. The solution to the heating problem at the Faculty of Philosophy and the adaptation of its yard was discussed, as well as the installation of an outdoor gym on the university campus. Special attention was paid to accommodation and nutrition of physiotherapy students from Igalo, as well as permanent and temporary solutions for accommodation of students in Podgorica, including the construction of a new student dormitory on the campus of the University of Montenegro.
"The University of Montenegro is continuously working on improving the spaces used by students, making them modern and functional," Božović said.
He emphasized the importance of the works on the rehabilitation of the infrastructure of the Faculty of Philosophy in Nikšić, including the renovation of the roof and facade, and the implementation of modern heating and cooling systems, with the expectation that the works will be completed before the next heating season.
Božović pointed to the numerous infrastructure works being carried out at UCG, whereby the University relies on cooperation with competent state institutions, as well as credit support from the World Bank for energy efficiency projects, in order to ensure sustainable financing and successful implementation of projects, he writes in announcement.
Special attention is paid to the internationalization of studies through the development of master's programs in English, such as the Master's program for information security, which attract international students. Božović pointed out that such programs enable students to gain global experiences and strengthen the international recognition of the University.
The students thanked the rector for his support of the "Tree of Knowledge" project, whose action is scheduled for Monday at 12 noon, and which is implemented in the spirit of the "green university" idea. In the following period, the expansion of that initiative through the creation of a botanical garden was also considered.
Also, ideas were exchanged about the humanitarian activism of students and potential activities that "will have the full support of the academic community" of UCG.
Božović concluded that students at the University of Montenegro have a reliable partner for improving the legal framework, infrastructure and student standards, as well as for strengthening international programs and student initiatives, which will ensure the quality and competitiveness of the higher education system of Montenegro.
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