On October 31, 2025, thousands of students from across Serbia gathered in Novi Sad to commemorate the first anniversary of a tragic accident that resulted in the deaths of 16 individuals when a roof collapsed at the city’s railway station. The event was marked by a vibrant celebration, featuring torches, fireworks, and enthusiastic chants of “Pumpaj!” as students arrived from various regions.
Among the participants were students from Novi Pazar, who completed a remarkable 300-kilometer journey on foot, taking 16 days to arrive in Novi Sad. They were welcomed by thousands of supporters lining the streets, displaying flags and expressing their solidarity with emotional cheers. The atmosphere was electric, with the sense of unity palpable as students celebrated both their journey and their resilience.
Celebration and Remembrance
The arrival of the Novi Pazar students coincided with a larger gathering of students from Bačka Palanka, Belgrade, Niš, and Užice, who also made their way to Novi Sad to participate in the festivities. In a poignant gesture, students from Novi Sad presented certificates to their peers from Novi Pazar, inscribed with the message: “For every step you took in the fight for freedom. Steps of remembrance. Without division, love is resistance.”
In a moment of surprise, a proposal took place on the Freedom Bridge, where student Daris Šuković asked Džejla Ahmetović to marry him, adding a personal touch to the day’s events. This joyful occasion amidst the solemn remembrance served to highlight the spirit of community that emerged from a period of grief.
Calls for Solidarity in Belgrade
In Belgrade, students encouraged those unable to attend the celebrations in Novi Sad to gather at 11:52 AM at key intersections near the Faculty of Law or the Faculty of Agriculture. This gathering aims to honor the victims of last year’s tragedy and to ensure their memory continues to resonate within the community.
The events of the evening underscored not only a remembrance of the past but also the collective strength and solidarity of students across Serbia. As they marched and celebrated in Novi Sad, the message was clear: they stand united in love and remembrance, advocating for a brighter future together.
