Students and Graduates are Future of Montenegro, its Economy and Society
.jpg&h=1000)
.jpg&h=1000)
Students and high school graduates make Montenegro part of the world—they are the future of every economy and society. The goal is to build bridges between education and the labour market, fostering the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and ideas that lead to a more stable and prosperous community.
This was key message from opening of the 17th Seasonal Employment Fair in Tourism, Summer Job 2025, and the Open Day of the University of Montenegro, held at the University Sports and Cultural Centre. The event was organized by the Student Parliament of the University of Montenegro (SPUMNE) and the Career Development and Lifelong Learning Office of UMNE.
The President of the Student Parliament of the University of Montenegro, Jakov Vukčević, announced that more than 90 employers from across the country are participating in the fair, offering over 2,000 job positions to students and high school graduates.
"Seasonal employment brings numerous benefits not only to young people but also to employers and society as a whole. For high school graduates and students, it is an opportunity to gain practical knowledge, establish professional contacts, and achieve financial independence. For employers, it means easier access to qualified labour and the ability to utilize government incentives to strengthen domestic capacities and enhance Montenegro’s tourism image," said Vukčević.
He emphasized that through this project, more than 10,000 young people have gained work experience.
"Our goal remains the same—to build bridges between education and the labor market, encouraging the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and ideas that lead to a better future for young people in Montenegro," Vukčević added.
UMNE Vice-Rector Veselin Mićanović stated that the end of high school is the right time for young people to choose a path toward higher education, and the University of Montenegro proudly invites them to become part of its community.
"Enrolling at the University of Montenegro is not just a step toward acquiring academic knowledge—it is also a chance for personal growth, exposure to new ideas, and engagement in a dynamic international environment. In this academic year, we are offering 67 study programs across 19 organizational units in various fields," said Mićanović.
He assured young people that UMNE is not just a place of learning but also an environment where opportunities for mobility and student exchanges will help them think more creatively, conduct research, and connect with peers from different parts of the world.
"Our mission is to equip you with the knowledge and competencies that will form the foundation of a successful career, as well as to provide all necessary resources to help you achieve your goals. Each of you, with different interests, talents, and ambitions, can become a leader in your field. At the University of Montenegro, you will have the chance to reach your full potential by participating in research, projects, and various extracurricular activities," Mićanović emphasized.
The Minister of Sports and Youth, Dragoslav Šćekić, highlighted the challenges young people face when seeking employment, particularly the lack of experience, which is often cited as a barrier by employers.
"How can young people gain experience if they are not given a chance for their first job? This is precisely why events like this play a crucial role in connecting employers with young individuals eager to learn, work, and build their future. Seasonal jobs may not be your final destination, but they are an excellent starting point. Every new skill and contact can open doors to more serious career opportunities in the future. Take advantage of this opportunity—be curious, proactive, and courageous. Ask questions, engage in conversations, and learn," encouraged Šćekić.
He thanked employers who recognize the importance of investing in young talent.
"Youth are the future of every economy, and your support ensures that we build a more stable and prosperous society for all," Šćekić added.
He also stated that the Government and the Ministry will continue to support programs and projects that improve the status of young people and create new opportunities in all areas of their lives.
The Mayor of Podgorica, Saša Mujović, emphasized that there is no greater fortune for a city than having a university that attracts the brightest and most productive minds.
"A university generates knowledge, dispels prejudices, erases boundaries, and broadens horizons. You, dear students and high school graduates, are what make Podgorica a part of the world, painting it in the most beautiful colours. The knowledge you gain at the University of Montenegro from your professors is truly remarkable, but knowledge must have a purpose and practical value. That is precisely why we are here today. We want to ensure that you have opportunities to start your careers in your Podgorica, in your Montenegro. We don’t want you to leave. Our country may not be the richest or most developed, but remember—one step beyond its borders, and you are just a foreigner," Mujović stated.
He expressed his belief that young people will recognize the opportunities presented to them and work towards building a brighter future "tailored to their needs and the needs of future generations."
The Director of the Employment Agency of Montenegro, David Perčobić, pointed out that Summer Job is not just an employment opportunity but a traditional bridge connecting young people with employers, giving them a chance to step into the workforce and develop their potential.
"The Employment Agency is an institution ready and capable of contributing to resolving unemployment issues. However, this is not a task we can accomplish alone. Synergy between all relevant institutions and the community is necessary to find effective solutions to this serious national challenge," said Perčobić.
He highlighted the concerning unemployment rate in the northern region, which stands at 35%, compared to 6% in the central region and 3% in the south.
"You will agree that the statistics clearly indicate the need to mobilize the workforce from the north for seasonal employment, which will gradually stabilize our labour market. Our goal and mission are to prioritize domestic labour and make available job positions accessible to young Montenegrins. That is why we are developing measures to enhance competitiveness in the labour market," Perčobić explained.
He called on employers to place their trust in local workers.
"Together, we can create a better future for our youth and our beautiful Montenegro," Perčobić concluded.
The Seasonal Employment Fair and Open Day at UMNE will be held today from 10 AM to 4 PM at the University Sports and Cultural Centre and will continue tomorrow at the Faculty of Tourism and Hotel Management in Kotor.