School year preparations and student support measures across the Balkans

As the new school year approaches, various regions are implementing measures to support students and families. In Slavonski Brod, Croatia, a public call has been issued to hire 98 teaching assistants to support students with developmental difficulties through the ‘Helping – phase VII’ project.

In Serbia, the municipality of Stara Pazova is renovating the ‘Vera Miščević’ elementary school in Surduk, with investments potentially reaching 50 million dinars to improve facilities for students. Meanwhile, in Podgorica, Montenegro, parents of first-graders and those receiving social assistance can apply for financial aid to purchase school supplies starting September 1.

Economic pressures are also noted, with reports indicating that textbook costs for elementary students in Serbia can range from 10,000 to 24,000 dinars per set, significantly impacting family budgets. Additionally, health experts are highlighting the existence of summer depression, a seasonal affective disorder characterized by insomnia, loss of appetite, and anxiety, which can be triggered by heat and disrupted routines.