Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić attended the official opening of the reconstructed Mladenovac Gymnasium, a project reportedly worth around 325 million dinars (approximately €3 million). However, the ceremony has sparked controversy, with critics claiming the event resembled a party gathering rather than an institutional opening.
The school, which serves 603 students, was reopened after more than two years of reconstruction. Vučić attended the ceremony alongside the Minister for Public Investments and the Mayor of Belgrade, while highlighting the financial investment and thanking international partners, including Germany’s development bank KfW.
Despite the celebration, civil society organizations and opposition representatives accused authorities of using the school opening for political purposes. Members of the citizens’ group Dogovor za Mladenovac argued that educational institutions are being politicized, despite claims from authorities that teachers introduce politics into schools.
Opposition figures also raised concerns about transparency in the reconstruction process, demanding officials disclose which company carried out the renovation works. Reports have circulated suggesting that the project may have involved a company previously linked to the controversial reconstruction of the Novi Sad railway station, though no official confirmation has been provided.
Observers noted that the gathering outside the school appeared similar to a political rally, with allegations that groups of attendees were transported by buses. During the event, Vučić also reiterated infrastructure promises, including plans to build a highway connecting Malo Požarevac and Mladenovac, which he said would significantly reduce travel time to Belgrade.
Additional questions were raised about the presence of Belgrade city security personnel at the event, with critics questioning their role and authority at a school ceremony.
Although the reopening was presented as positive news for students and parents, many families only received official confirmation later in the afternoon that students would return to the renovated building after months of attending classes at another school facility.
