Inclusive Education – A Responsibility We All Share: Together for Every Child
Conference on Inclusive Education

- Srpski
- English
Belgrade, 18 November 2024 – Inclusive education has become an inseparable part of the educational system and children’s education in Serbia. This is reflected in significant improvements in the quality and availability of inclusive education. There is growing support for inclusive education for every child in preschools and schools, with numerous examples of successful inclusive practices by dedicated teachers. The education system is undergoing reorganisation, introducing new resources and mechanisms to empower teachers and schools in supporting children who need more comprehensive assistance, including the use of assistive technologies.
The “Together for Every Child” conference brought together more than 200 decision-makers, education professionals, teachers, and representatives from academic and research organisations, non-governmental and international organisations, as well as children and youth. Participants exchanged experiences and examples of good practices in inclusive education from Serbia and abroad. The conference also presented the results of the project “Enhanced Equal Access to and Completion of Pre-University Education for Children in Need of Additional Support in Education”, implemented by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Serbia, UNICEF, and the Delegation of the European Union in Serbia.
Since the systemic introduction of inclusive education in 2009, the Government of the Republic of Serbia and the Ministry of Education have defined inclusive education as one of the priorities in the Strategy for the Development of Education in the Republic of Serbia by 2030.
The Minister of Education, Professor Dr Slavica Djukic Dejanovic, emphasised that the development of inclusive education is a strategic goal of the Government of the Republic of Serbia and the Ministry of Education.
“Over the 15 years of implementing the inclusive education concept, schools and teachers have enhanced their capacities. Today, more than 20,000 students are educated under individualised education plans in mainstream schools. Additionally, innovative mechanisms for supporting institutions have been introduced, such as external advisors for inclusive education, 13 resource centres providing students access to assistive technologies, and the engagement of 280 pedagogical assistants for Roma children. We are also intensively working to provide pedagogical assistants for students with disabilities. Advancing inclusive education is a strategic goal because it represents the most equitable educational context,” said Minister Djukic Dejanovic.
The project “Enhanced Equal Access to and Completion of Pre-University Education for Children in Need of Additional Support in Education” is one of the initiatives through which the European Union, Serbia’s largest donor, supports the modernisation of the education system and alignment with EU standards and practices. Since 2003, the European Union has donated over 130 million euros for the reform of the education sector, including improving early childhood education, reforming secondary vocational education and adult education, renovating and equipping schools and universities, and supporting inclusive education.
“Today we are concluding a successful project on inclusive education, but also, we are celebrating a remarkable milestone: 15 years of advancing inclusive education in Serbia. I would like to recognize the critical role that local stakeholders play in driving this process forward. I am hopeful that the vibrant community of practitioners we have fostered through this project will continue to grow, ensuring that every child receives the support they deserve. We will continue to support inclusive education policies in Serbia,” said Plamena Halacheva, Deputy Head of EU Delegation to Serbia.
Inclusive education can lead to better learning outcomes for all children, not just those with disabilities. It promotes tolerance and enables social cohesion by fostering a cohesive social culture and promoting equal participation in society. Therefore, inclusive education is more cost-effective than segregated schooling.
“Serbia has made significant strides in inclusive education over the past 15 years and is dedicated to demonstrating how inclusive practices not only uphold every child's right to quality education but also build a strong and diverse human capital base essential for economic resilience. However, the ongoing global learning crisis and challenges such as disparities in access and outcomes for marginalized children highlight the urgent need to deepen reforms and ensure that no child is left behind,” said Deyana Kostadinova, UNICEF Representative in Serbia.
Inclusive education goes beyond the education sector. Lasting change requires coordinated action in education, health, social, and private sectors, with families at the centre. Inclusive education must be seen as part of a broader goal: to use education to create a fairer and less discriminatory society for every child.
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