The Secondary School of Economics and Hospitality in Bar organized finals of its school debate tournament dedicated to EU topics, organized as part of the EUbuzz campaign. The campaign is implemented by the Ministry of European Affairs and the Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation, with financial support from the EU through the EU4ME and European House projects.
In the final debate the Affirmative Team—comprising Elena Petrušić, Hena Kočan, and Jovan Milović—competed against the Negative Team, consisting of Sara Pepđonović, Jovana Zindović, and Anđela Zindović. The debate topic was: “Montenegrin citizens will enjoy greater rights and freedoms upon joining the EU.” After a dynamic exchange of arguments, the judges declared the Negative Team as the winners.
The debate final was opened by Melita Rastoder Ljaić, a representative of the Ministry of European Affairs, Tanja Spičanović, Deputy Mayor of Bar, and Neđeljko Đurović, the debate club mentor.
Rastoder Ljaić, the author of the Guide to Buzzing About the EU, encouraged the young people by emphasizing their role as agents of change, shaping how society addresses the challenges of a European future through discussions like these.
“Through debates like this we learn not only how to discuss and argue but also how to respect one another. Let me remind you, however, that debating is not just an opportunity to showcase your knowledge and argumentation skills but also a chance to connect with your peers, gain new insights, and perhaps lay the foundations for further learning about the EU,” she said.
Deputy Mayor Spičanović highlighted the dual benefits of such projects—broadening knowledge about the EU, its values, and opportunities, while also developing social skills that will be valuable in future careers.
“I hope that as full-fledged citizens of a great European family, united not only in status but also in values, you will realize your personal and professional potential and contribute to the welfare of your city and Montenegrin society,” emphasized the Deputy Mayor of Bar.
The school in Bar is one of 18 high schools from 16 municipalities that participated in the three-month-long EUbuzz campaign, during which more than 300 young debaters discussed current EU topics. The campaign’s closing event will take place in mid-December in Podgorica, where the most successful teams will receive awards and diplomas.