The Students’ Parliament of the University of Montenegro (SPUCG) is set to implement a system for student jobs aimed at enhancing student standards in the coming period. This initiative follows the successful achievement of earlier goals, particularly the recognition of student demands in the new Law on Higher Education. The announcement was made during a working breakfast with media representatives, where SPUCG highlighted its accomplishments and plans for the upcoming year.
President of SPUCG, Jakov Vukčević, stated that one of the primary objectives is to introduce a legal framework for student jobs in Montenegro, modeled after successful systems in the region and Europe. He explained that this model would establish a student service within higher education institutions, allowing students to work legally, transparently, and flexibly without compromising their academic responsibilities.
“This student service would enable students to earn additional funds for their education while providing employers with quality local labor,” Vukčević added. He emphasized the significance of recognizing the right to student employment as a part of the student standard in the new legislation.
In preparation, SPUCG has drafted a specialized law, which will soon be presented to relevant ministries, with expectations of broad institutional and public support. Alongside this initiative, SPUCG plans to advocate for regulatory measures concerning the employment of foreign workers, proposing a fixed fee for employers hiring foreign staff, with proceeds directed to a fund for supporting domestic employment programs.
Student standards remain a priority, with plans for a new student dormitory in Podgorica, renovations of existing facilities, the introduction of air conditioning in dormitories, and significant investments in student dining services throughout Montenegro.
The General Secretary of SPUCG, Vedran Vujisić, remarked that the new Law on Higher Education is a comprehensive act containing various solutions that the students’ parliament has actively pursued through meetings with decision-makers, initiatives, petitions, and other forms of advocacy. “We can finally say that the law we have been waiting for has been adopted, with solutions we fought for in the interest of students,” he noted.
Vujisić highlighted the introduction of flexible study models, such as 3+1+1+3, 3+2+3, or 4+1+1, depending on institutional choices. He pointed out that a significant amendment allows students enrolled in a two-year master’s program to receive a diploma of postgraduate specialist studies after earning at least 60 ECTS credits.
Although the proposal for additional examination periods in April and July was not included in the law, Vujisić emphasized that SPUCG would continue to advocate for it. “A congested academic calendar and the volume of material make examinations particularly challenging. Additional examination periods, as seen in the region, would contribute to better organization and student success,” he stated.
The need for new student accommodation has been underscored due to a persistent shortage of places. Vujisić called for urgent infrastructural investments and renovations in existing dormitory phases, including air conditioning installation.
Reflecting on the year’s achievements, Ivana Popović, the student ombudsman at UCG, expressed pride not only in the number of activities conducted but also in the manner of building dialogue, support, and community among students. “Our work confirms that UCG students are not just students; they are catalysts for change and bearers of the future,” Popović said.
Among the notable achievements is the inaugural KOMPASS Conference on youth partnership, activism, and student collaboration. Supported by ten mentors, this initiative has developed ten innovative student ideas addressing key challenges faced by the student population, from employment and education to ecology, digitalization, culture, and student standards. The University of Montenegro and SPUCG have allocated a prize fund of €5,000 for the top three ideas, which will be implemented shortly.
SPUCG also continued its traditional projects, such as the “Summer Job” program and the Open Day at the University of Montenegro. The seasonal employment fair, “Summer Job 2025,” took place on March 12-13, 2025, in Podgorica and Kotor, reaffirming its status as the largest seasonal employment fair in Montenegro, providing over 500 young people with their first work experience each year.
On the same day, the Open Day event allowed high school graduates from across Montenegro to explore study programs, faculties, international exchange opportunities, and extracurricular activities.
Additionally, SPUCG has launched a podcast titled “We Are Still Green,” focusing on themes related to education, psychology, ecology, culture, and sports. The current edition of the Student Art Festival, held from November 17 to 20, has been described as one of the most significant cultural events within the student community.
