Montenegro has allocated over €2 million for the modernization of heating systems in educational institutions ahead of the second semester, according to the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation. Minister Anđela Jakšić-Stojanović confirmed that all educational facilities will be ready to welcome students back next week.
The Ministry has reported that there are currently no challenges in the operation of heating systems across all schools. “All educational institutions in Montenegro possess a heating system, whether central, alternative, or individual for classrooms,” the ministry stated. Each year, funding is provided through both the current and capital budgets to enhance conditions within these establishments.
Ongoing modernization efforts aim to replace outdated heating systems, with several schools receiving new, more efficient systems annually. The Ministry conducts regular inspections to ensure compliance with minimum heating standards and to monitor school management reports. Additionally, emergency funds are available for urgent repairs to heating systems when necessary.
In the past year, over €2 million has been dedicated to upgrading heating systems in various schools, including JU OSŠ “Polica” in Berane, JU OSŠ “Milun Ivanović” in Rožaje, and JU OSŠ “Mojsije Stevanović” in Kolašin. Other institutions benefiting from these improvements include JU OSŠ “21. maj” in Bijelo Polje and JU OSŠ “18. oktobar” in Podgorica.
Many schools are currently implementing energy efficiency projects, such as JU OSŠ “Jugoslavija” and JU OSŠ “Srbija,” both located in Bar, as well as JU Gimnazija in Cetinje. These initiatives aim to bolster energy efficiency while ensuring a comfortable learning environment for students.
Historically, some schools in Montenegro have faced heating challenges during winter months, leading to shortened classes or online instruction due to insufficient fuel supplies. Reports indicated that students were sometimes forced to attend classes in jackets. As the second semester approaches, school directors have reassured that heating systems are operational, with some facilities maintaining warmth even during the winter break.
Directors have indicated that their schools are equipped with various heating methods, including pellets, gas, heating oil, and wood, assuring that there is ample supply to keep systems functioning smoothly. Recent temperatures in northern Montenegro have dipped as low as -20 degrees Celsius, but officials assert that all rooms are adequately heated.
Caution has been exercised in some institutions, where heating was not turned off during the break to prevent damage to plumbing from freezing temperatures. Nonetheless, challenges remain for certain schools, such as the First Vocational School in Nikšić, which has not undergone significant renovations for years. Although the heating system is functional, older wooden structures complicate the heating process, and school officials expect renovations to take place in May 2024.
As Montenegro continues to invest in its educational infrastructure, the emphasis on modern heating solutions reflects a commitment to providing students with a conducive learning environment, despite the challenges faced in previous years.
