Balkan regions prepare for new school year amid infrastructure and cost concerns

As the new school year approaches across the Balkans, various regions are managing different aspects of the transition. In Brčko District, while textbooks are provided for free, parents face significant costs for backpacks, stationery, and clothing. In Banja Luka, local authorities have introduced five measures to improve student welfare, including school uniforms to promote social equality and limits on social media use.

In Serbia, the Ministry of Education has confirmed that preparations are complete for 62,450 new first-grade students, noting that textbooks are being printed in eight languages to support multiculturalism. Financial updates indicate that teacher salaries have seen significant increases. Meanwhile, in Croatia, Koprivnica is undergoing major school infrastructure investments, leading to temporary two-shift schedules for some students.

Health and psychological experts are also weighing in, emphasizing the importance of nutrition, sleep, and mental health support to help children manage the stress of returning to routine. In Montenegro, preschool institutions in Nikšić are finalizing enrollments and enforcing new vaccination regulations for attendance. Additionally, large-scale infrastructure projects are underway in Croatia, such as the construction of a new school in Dugoselo to accommodate 672 students.