In recent months, Serbia has taken significant strides in enhancing public health and safety measures, particularly in the education sector. Following a tragic school shooting in May 2023, the government has prioritized mental health support and violence prevention initiatives in schools, while also addressing the needs of refugees and asylum seekers in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive training programs for educators on mental health support.
- New initiatives aimed at preventing peer violence in schools.
- Focus on housing and employment for refugees to aid integration.
- Public sector professionals enhancing communication and awareness skills.
Mental Health Support Initiatives
In response to the growing recognition of mental health’s importance in education, Serbia’s Ministry of Education has launched a comprehensive training program. This initiative, in collaboration with the Institute for Mental Health, aims to equip over two thousand educators with the skills necessary to identify and address mental health issues among students. The training covers crisis intervention, behavioral disorder prevention, and strategies for supporting students’ reintegration into school life.
Following the training, educators are expected to implement action plans tailored to their schools, ensuring that the skills acquired are put into practice. Additionally, educational advisors have received specialized training to monitor and support the ongoing implementation of these mental health initiatives.
Preventing Peer Violence in Schools
Alongside mental health training, the Ministry of Education has partnered with the Council of Europe to launch a project focused on preventing peer violence in schools. This initiative aims to create safer school environments through enhanced prevention and response systems. A national survey will assess student well-being, particularly concerning digital violence and other forms of peer abuse, to identify areas needing intervention.
Supporting Refugees and Asylum Seekers
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has been actively working to support refugees and asylum seekers in Serbia. A recent conference highlighted the importance of housing and employment for refugees, emphasizing the need for private sector engagement. Recommendations from refugees included the necessity for private housing, professional development opportunities, and support for entrepreneurship.
The UNHCR’s initiative, “For Refugees,” aims to foster collaboration between the private sector and refugees, enabling them to integrate into society and contribute economically. This partnership is seen as mutually beneficial, as it not only aids refugees in becoming self-reliant but also enriches the workforce.
Enhancing Public Sector Communication
In addition to educational and refugee support initiatives, Serbia’s public sector professionals are enhancing their communication and awareness skills. A recent training workshop organized by the State Aid Control Commission (CSAC) focused on improving outreach and evaluation tools. This training is part of a broader effort to ensure compliance with state aid regulations and to foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including academia and the private sector.
The workshop provided a platform for knowledge exchange among professionals, equipping them with the necessary tools to improve institutional transparency and accessibility. This initiative is crucial for building a more informed and engaged public sector that can effectively address the needs of the community.
Conclusion
Serbia’s commitment to strengthening public health and safety measures reflects a proactive approach to addressing the challenges faced by its citizens, particularly in the wake of recent tragedies. By focusing on mental health support in schools, preventing peer violence, and aiding the integration of refugees, the country is taking significant steps toward fostering a safer and more inclusive society.
Sources
- Serbia: Supporting mental health and prevention of peer violence in schools, Eurydice network.
- Serbian schoolboy shooter testifies at parents’ trial in Belgrade, BBC.
- Housing and Employment are Key for New Beginnings of Refugees in Serbia – UNHCR Serbia, UNHCR – The UN Refugee Agency.
- Serbia’s public sector professionals strengthen their awareness and communication skills – FIIAPP, FIIAPP.
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