Education policy disputes emerge in Banja Luka and Serbia

In Banja Luka, a dispute has emerged between the city administration and the Ministry of Education and Culture of Republika Srpska regarding an initiative to introduce school uniforms in primary schools. The city administration argues that uniforms can reduce visible social differences among students and has already secured 450 uniforms for a pilot phase in lower grades. However, the Ministry has not supported the project in its current form, citing a lack of preparation and insufficient involvement of key stakeholders, including school directors, parents, and experts. The Ministry has requested clarification on implementation costs, future financing, and the selection criteria for participating schools.

In Serbia, proposed amendments to the Law on the Foundations of the Education System have been suspended following objections from unions. The Ministry of Education stated that the changes were intended to address issues identified during school supervision, specifically regarding the respect for decisions made by school directors and governing bodies. Conversely, unions and parents, including members of the Ninth Belgrade Gymnasium Parents' Council, view the amendments as a form of repression and an attempt to exert control over schools following previous protests. The controversial provisions include new grounds for suspending teacher licenses and changes to the role of parents' councils.