Stupnik residents protest over potential loss of 12 million euro school funding

Residents of Stupnik held a protest to demand the construction of a new primary school, a project that has been discussed for nearly two decades. The demonstration was prompted by the approaching September 30 deadline to apply for funding through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. Local officials warn that missing this deadline could result in the loss of 12 million euros in EU funds.

Stupnik is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Zagreb County, with over 150 building permits recently issued. Currently, the municipality lacks an independent primary school; children attend local classes up to the fourth grade before being sent to Lučko. Mayor Vladimir Crnečki warned that existing capacities will be unable to accommodate the influx of young families within the next two years.

The project faces administrative complexities because while Stupnik is territorially part of Zagreb County, its current school system is managed by the City of Zagreb. Although land has been secured and necessary consents have been obtained, the county has yet to submit the application for the funding.