Meet the Superschools in Podgorica

During an event organised in Europe House, participants had a chance to “Meet the Superschools”.Agreements were signed with nine Montenegrin schools whose projects were awarded within the 4th cycle of the Superschools RYCO programme. 

“Meet the Superschools“ programme aims to contribute to peacebuilding, reconciliation, intercultural learning, and dialogue within the framework of the Western Balkans School Exchange Scheme.

The event was organised by the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO), Local Branch Office in Montenegro.

In her opening remarks, Bojana Lalatović, RYCO Programme Coordinator, welcomed both new and returning schools awarded in this cycle:

“We strongly believe that a better and more prosperous region rests on young people, as evidenced by the numerous experiences of students and their teachers who have had the opportunity to participate in exchanges. In this context, our cooperation with teachers is of key importance, as their enthusiasm provides an invaluable contribution to RYCO’s mission. They are the ones who ensure that every student feels safe and comfortable, that every exchange is engaging and educational, that young people have space to speak and learn about topics they find relevant, and that through these exchanges they build deeper connections with their peers.”

Mr. Riccardo Serri, Deputy Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro, speaking on behalf of the EU as a long-standing partner, reflected on the achievements of the previous cycles:

“The results of the first cycles of this programme speak for themselves: more than 120 projects supported, 240 exchanges implemented, and over 3,000 students and 480 teachers involved. Each of these exchanges represents a step forward in strengthening trust, understanding, and cooperation in the region. For Montenegro, given its size, these results are even more impactful. We look forward to seeing the ideas and projects that you will develop and to learning from your experiences.”

RYCO

Addressing the directors and teachers present, Mr. Darko Stojanović, Director General of the Directorate for Youth and Cooperation with NGOs at the Ministry of Sports and Youth, stressed that the Ministry remains a dedicated partner in this project, thanking those who have already participated in previous cycles: 

“I am confident that the synergy of our joint efforts will bring lasting results—not only in the fields of education and cooperation, but also in consolidating peace and mutual trust.”

Mr. Ralf Reusch, Deputy Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, emphasised:

“The RYCO Superschools programme is truly great. It strengthens the initiative of students and teachers. It provides participants with the opportunity to develop an individual and authentic understanding of the region, its history, and the future of the Western Balkans. I therefore hope that all your exchange projects will be a great success—and that your example will inspire more schools in Montenegro.”

RYCO

Closing the opening remarks, Mr. Dragan Marković, State Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation of Montenegro, underlined that the Ministry highly values RYCO’s mission:

“It clearly demonstrates that human rights, mutual respect, and trust are the best foundations for long-term stability and development of the region. In this sense, Superschools are not just an educational programme — they are a school of life, a school of solidarity, and a school of peace.”

Following the opening remarks, the event continued with the ceremonial signing of agreements and the presentation of the upcoming activities related to this project.