Montenegro has allocated over €2 million to enhance heating systems in schools across the country. This investment is aimed at ensuring all educational institutions are prepared for the upcoming second semester, as confirmed by the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation, led by Minister Anđela Jakšić-Stojanović.
The Ministry reports no current challenges in heating system functionality within educational facilities. All institutions in Montenegro, including schools and kindergartens, are equipped with heating systems, whether central, alternative, or individual heating in classrooms. Every year, the Ministry secures funding through its operational and capital budget to improve conditions in these establishments. Efforts to modernize heating systems continue, with several schools receiving new, more efficient systems each year.
Schools are regularly monitored for compliance with minimum heating standards through inspections and reports provided by school administrations. The Ministry also allocates funds for urgent interventions in the event of malfunctions or failures in heating systems.
In the past year, more than €2 million has been dedicated to upgrading heating systems in various educational institutions. Notable upgrades have occurred at schools such as JU OŠ “Polica” in Berane, JU OŠ “Milun Ivanović” in Rožaje, and JU OŠ “Mojsije Stevanović” in Kolašin, among others. Many schools are also participating in energy efficiency projects, including JU OŠ “Jugoslavija” and JU OŠ “Srbija,” both located in Bar.
Historically, there have been instances where schools experienced inadequate heating during winter months, leading to shortened class schedules and online lessons. Some students even attended classes in winter jackets due to insufficient heating. To assess the situation for the upcoming school term, reports were gathered from various school directors, who confirmed that their facilities are ready for students. In some cases, heating systems operated continuously over the holiday break.
School directors indicated that their institutions utilize a variety of heating sources, including pellets, gas, heating oil, and wood. They expressed confidence that supplies are adequate to ensure uninterrupted heating operations. Recent weather reports noted extremely low temperatures in northern regions, reaching as low as -20 degrees Celsius. Despite the cold, directors assured that all spaces are adequately heated, emphasizing that heating systems remained active during the break to prevent damage from freezing conditions.
However, some institutions, such as the First Secondary Vocational School in Nikšić, have faced challenges due to the lack of significant renovations over the years. Although the heating system itself is functional, the presence of old wooden fixtures complicates the efficient heating of all rooms. The school anticipates renovations in May 2024 to address these issues.
Overall, the substantial investment in heating systems reflects Montenegro’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure and ensuring a comfortable learning environment for students as they return for the new semester.
