European values are often best presented through the creativity, ideas and messages of younger generations, and it was precisely through art that students from Šavnik conveyed messages of unity, peace and Europe’s shared future.
As part of the Europe Day celebration, an exhibition of artworks by primary and secondary school students was organized at Pekić House, featuring works created within an art competition dedicated to Europe and European values.
The event brought together representatives of institutions, the international community, the education sector and the local community. The participants were addressed by the President of the Municipality of Šavnik, Jugoslav Jakić, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to Montenegro, Andreina Marsella.
The President of the Municipality of Šavnik, Jugoslav Jakić, spoke about the importance of involving young people in promoting European values and in the development of the local community.
“Through cultural activities, creative expression, exhibitions, workshops and international cooperation, young people have the opportunity to develop openness, tolerance, creativity and a sense of belonging to the modern European community. Culture is not only about preserving tradition, but also a space where young people develop their ideas, build new connections and actively participate in shaping the society they want to live in,” said Jakić.
The Ambassador of Italy to Montenegro, Andreina Marsella, emphasized the importance of culture, education and creativity as spaces that connect people and strengthen the European spirit of togetherness.
“Across Montenegro this month, we see this idea come to life through culture, music, sports, environmental activities and local traditions. Young people are at the heart of this project. They are not only the future of Europe – they are already shaping its present today. The European Union provides young people with opportunities to learn, travel, connect and create. Young people in Montenegro deserve these opportunities. Their openness, curiosity and willingness to cooperate across borders further strengthen the sense of a shared European family to which Montenegro belongs,” said Ambassador Marsela.
As part of the programme, the best student artworks were announced and awarded, while the exhibition demonstrated how children and young people perceive Europe, unity, solidarity and Montenegro’s future within the European family of nations. As winners of the competition, Anđela Kršikapa and Svetlana Grdinić from Boan, as well as Maša Dragić from the school in Šavnik, received appropriate awards.
The celebration of Europe Day in Šavnik is part of the national programme taking place across Montenegro throughout May, aimed at bringing European values closer to citizens and highlighting the country’s European perspective.
Europe Day celebrations are organized by the EU-funded projects Europe House, EU4ME and Municipalities4EU in cooperation with municipalities across Montenegro.
