The European Investment Bank (EIB Global) has secured €20.3 million to support Montenegro’s education sector, enabling the renovation and modernization of numerous schools while promoting youth employment and economic sustainability.
The funding includes an €18 million loan and €2.3 million in grants to the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) for technical assistance. This investment will improve infrastructure and learning conditions in 13 educational institutions, provide new digital equipment to over 500 primary and secondary schools, and create approximately 530 full-time teaching jobs.
Over the next two years, school capacity is expected to increase by 1,700 student places, benefiting more than 11,500 students with enhanced learning environments. The grant to UNOPS will help assess existing infrastructure and prepare key investment projects, aiding the Ministry of Education in making informed decisions.
These efforts aim to better align academic qualifications with labor market demands, addressing skill mismatches, boosting youth employment, increasing productivity, and strengthening Montenegro’s economic competitiveness.
Since 2020, EIB Global’s investments in Montenegro’s education sector have reached €55 million, combining loans, EU grants, and technical support as part of the “Team Europe” initiative.
A notable example of progress is the newly built “Vladimir Nazor” school in Podgorica, offering modern facilities for over 1,000 students, energy-efficient design, and fully equipped classrooms, laboratories, and sports halls.
EIB Global has also provided a €2 million grant to supply schools with tablets, laptops, desktops, and digital tools to enhance digital skills among students and teachers, supporting equal opportunities for future employment and lifelong learning.
Alongside these investments, EIB Global formalized its strong partnership with Montenegro through a Host Country Agreement, reinforcing ongoing support in various sectors worth over €1.1 billion. These initiatives align with Montenegro’s EU integration goals, focusing on connectivity, sustainable development, and climate objectives under the new Growth Plan.
EIB Global remains committed to backing economically sustainable and technically sound educational projects to strengthen Montenegro’s economic resilience and development path.
