Helena Ninković Budimlija appointed head of education in Primorsko-goranska County

Helena Ninković Budimlija has been appointed as the new head of the Administrative Department for Education and Training in Primorsko-goranska County. She is set to take office on October 11, 2026, succeeding Edita Stilin, who is retiring after thirteen years in the role.

Ninković Budimlija, a rehabilitation professor with nearly thirty years of professional experience, was selected from several candidates following a public competition. She is most recognized for her long-term leadership as the director of the ‘Vladimir Nazor’ Kindergarten in Kastav, a position she held since 2009. Her career has focused heavily on early childhood education, inclusive approaches, and supporting children with developmental difficulties.

The appointment is part of a trend of leadership from the Kastav region moving into county-level roles. The new head will undergo a mandatory three-month probationary period and must pass a second-level state exam within one year.