In a colourful display of unity and civic engagement, the plateau in front of the Cultural Centre in Kučevo became a hub for democratic values during the recently held "Day of Education for Democratic Culture." Organised as part of the joint European Union and Council of Europe action "Quality Education for All," the event was facilitated by the mentor school "Veljko Dugošević" from Turija, showcasing the transformative power of the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC).
The event commenced with a Ceremonial Parade, as students and teachers from participating schools marched from the local Post Office to the Cultural Centre. Carrying school symbols, vibrant panels, and messages of cooperation, the participants turned the streets of Kučevo into a living gallery of democratic principles, promoting respect and diversity.
Opening the ceremony, the Deputy Head of the Council of Europe Office in Belgrade, Evgenia Giakoumopoulou, said “I am encouraged to see young people here today who understand the values we all promote and nurture and are ready to advocate for them. You are the future leaders of this community, and your commitment to human rights and democracy will shape the future of Serbia”.
The host school highlighted how the project has helped create a safer, more stimulating, and open environment where every student's voice is valued.
A central feature of the day was the interactive thematic stands. Rather than passive observers, visitors and guests were invited to be active participants. Through student-led quizzes, interactive tasks, and creative discussions, each stand demonstrated a different competence of the RFCDC - ranging from critical thinking and empathy to valuing cultural diversity.
One of the symbolic moments of the day was the creation of a "Message Capsule." Under the prompt "What Kind of School Do We Want?", students, educators, and community members wrote down their visions for the future of education. These messages, emphasising a desire for schools built on dialogue and mutual appreciation, were placed in a capsule as a shared commitment to continue building an inclusive educational culture in Serbia.
The event concluded with a group photo and an informal gathering, reinforcing the spirit of the "Quality Education for All" action: that democracy is not just a subject to be taught, but a culture to be lived.
This initiative continues to support schools across Serbia in becoming centres of excellence for democratic culture, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to become an active and responsible citizen.
The action “Quality education for all” is part of the joint European Union and Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye”.
