MINIĆ: NIKOLA TESLA PRIMARY SCHOOL IN DERVENTA ONE OF THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE IN SRPSKA

DERVENTA, SEPTEMBER 25 /SRNA/ – Republika Srpska Prime Minister Savo Minić said that, with today's opening of the reconstructed Nikola Tesla Primary School, Derventa has gained one of the most comprehensive school facilities in Republika Srpska, both in terms of modern equipment and capacity.

"The equipment here is completely new, including state-of-the-art smart boards, computers, and a gym," Minić said after the ceremonial opening of the school building, whose renovation and equipment were funded by the Republika Srpska Government with approximately BAM 7.2 million. Minić said that work is currently being carried out on more than 90 school buildings in Republika Srpska, while three additional schools are being constructed. Republika Srpska Minister of Education and Culture Borivoje Golubović said that investments in education include infrastructure and the equipping of schools throughout Republika Srpska. Regarding Nikola Tesla Primary School in Derventa, he said the facility has a library, an extended-day programme, and facilities for children with special needs. "Simply put, it is a school that looks impressive," Golubović said. Derventa Mayor Igor Žunić said they are proud of the reconstructed school building, which members of his family also attended. "Our goal is to equip all primary and secondary schools in Derventa in this way, together with the Ministry of Education and the Government of Republika Srpska," Žunić added. Nikola Tesla Primary School Principal Ljubiša Đurić said the building has been completely reconstructed and that optimal conditions have been created for students to study and spend time at the school. "We have gained a new, larger space with three classrooms, an extended-day programme for nine groups of students, a new library and reading room," Đurić said. He added that the reconstruction also included renovation of the roof, as well as expansion of the areas used for the extended-day programme and school administration. The Nikola Tesla Primary School building was damaged in the earthquake that struck in late 2020, which required full reconstruction and because of the age of the building. The first students enrolled at the school in 1879, which is considered the year of its establishment. The school building is listed as a protected monument, so its exterior appearance was not changed during the reconstruction. The facade was restored based on the original design, with new lighting.