The Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (MESI) has provided 37,5 million euros in grants for the implementation of projects in the field of education since 2023, the relevant Minister Anđela Jakšić Stojanović announced today.
According to her, the latest grant in the amount of 13,07 million euros was approved at the end of January through a joint application with the European Investment Bank and the Council of Europe Development Bank, through the WBIF mechanism.
"Grants from the European Union and partner institutions represent a clear indicator of trust in the reform processes implemented by the Ministry, but also in the state's ability to implement its obligations responsibly, efficiently and within the set deadlines," said Jakšić Stojanović.
She added that, in parallel, in cooperation with the European Investment Bank, the Council of Europe Development Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, loan arrangements worth more than 70 million euros have been concluded, providing funds for the construction of ten new educational facilities, the reconstruction of more than 30 existing ones, as well as improving conditions for modern and high-quality teaching throughout the country.
"The Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation expresses special gratitude to the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of European Affairs, as well as the Government of Montenegro as a whole, because this process would not have been possible without strong interdepartmental cooperation, synergy in planning and high productivity in project implementation. It was precisely the degree of preparedness and maturity of the projects, as well as the coordinated approach of all institutions involved, that were key to attracting significant grants and favorable financial arrangements," she said.
Jakšić Stojanović also said that, taking into account the total value of projects from the Growth Plan intended for the education sector and the fact that the largest part of the activities, especially when it comes to infrastructure projects and the reform of the education system, is still ahead of us, the Ministry of Education and Science will continue to implement all activities defined by the Reform Agenda with dedication and responsibility in the coming period.
"The results achieved so far represent just the beginning of a long-term and stable cooperation between the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation and the institutions of the European Union, with which, on the basis of mutual trust, shared responsibility and clearly defined development goals, we continue to build a modern, accessible and high-quality education system in the interest of current and future generations," concluded the minister.
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