The Students’ Parliament of the University of Montenegro (SPUCG) has announced plans to implement a system for student employment in the country. This initiative aims to enhance the overall student experience and adhere to the recent amendments in the Law on Higher Education, which includes recognition of students’ rights. The announcement was made during a working breakfast with media representatives, where SPUCG detailed its achievements and future objectives.
Jakov Vukčević, President of SPUCG, emphasized that introducing a student employment system is one of the parliament’s key goals. This model will be inspired by successful practices from Europe and the region. Vukčević explained that the proposed system would establish a student service at higher education institutions, allowing students to work legally, transparently, and flexibly, without compromising their academic commitments.
“This service would enable students to earn additional resources for their studies, while employers benefit from a skilled local workforce,” Vukčević stated. He noted that the recognition of the right to student employment as part of the new educational standards is a significant advancement. SPUCG has already prepared a draft legislation, which will soon be presented to the relevant ministries, with hopes for broad institutional and public support.
Alongside this initiative, SPUCG is also pushing for legislative measures to regulate the employment of foreign workers. This includes introducing a fixed fee for employers hiring foreign labor, which would contribute to a special fund for financing local employment programs.
Another priority remains the improvement of student standards, highlighted by plans for the construction of a new student dormitory in Podgorica, renovation of existing facilities, and the introduction of air conditioning in dorms. SPUCG has also pledged significant investments in student canteens across Montenegro.
General Secretary of SPUCG, Vedran Vujisić, remarked that the new Law on Higher Education represents a comprehensive framework that encompasses numerous solutions for which the Students’ Parliament has advocated through discussions with decision-makers, initiatives, and petitions.
“We can finally say that we have passed a law we have been waiting for, containing solutions we fought for in the interest of students,” Vujisić added. He highlighted one of the most significant changes, which is the introduction of flexible study models, such as 3+1+1+3 and 4+1+1, allowing institutions to retain integrated studies based on their preferences.
Vujisić also pointed out that the proposal for additional exam periods in April and July was not included in the new law, but SPUCG will continue to advocate for it. “A congested academic calendar and the volume of material make exams particularly challenging. Additional exam periods, as seen in the region, would contribute to better organization and student success,” he remarked.
Concerns regarding student accommodation were also raised. Vujisić stressed the urgent need for a new dormitory due to the ongoing shortage of places, alongside necessary infrastructural investments and renovations of existing student housing facilities, including the introduction of air conditioning.
Reflecting on the achievements of the past year, Ivana Popović, student ombudsman at UCG, expressed pride not only in the number of activities but also in the way they fostered dialogue, support, and community among students. “Our work shows that UCG students are not just students; they are catalysts for change and the bearers of the future,” Popović stated.
SPUCG also highlighted the successful launch of the KOMPASS conference on youth partnership, activism, and student collaboration. With the support of ten mentors, ten innovative student initiatives addressing key challenges faced by the student population were developed, focusing on issues ranging from employment and education to ecology, digitalization, and cultural standards. UCG and SPUCG allocated a prize fund of €5,000 for the top three ideas, which will be implemented in the near future.
The traditional “Summer Job” project and the Open Day event at UCG were also noted as significant successes. The seasonal employment fair, “Summer Job 2025,” took place on March 12 in Podgorica and on March 13 in Kotor. This event reaffirmed its status as the largest seasonal employment fair in Montenegro, where over 500 young individuals gain their first work experience each year.
On the same day, the Open Day allowed high school graduates from across Montenegro to learn about study programs, faculties, international exchange possibilities, and extracurricular activities.
SPUCG has continued the production of its podcast, “We Are Still Green,” covering topics related to education, psychology, ecology, culture, and sports. The annual Students’ Festival of Arts, held from November 17 to 20, was described as one of the most significant cultural events within the student community.
