Continuous investment in teacher professional development is the foundation of a strong education system in Montenegro.
The conference Continuous Professional Development: Opportunities and Challenges took place in Podgorica. The British Council, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation and the Bureau for Education Services of Montenegro, organized the event. Over 170 teachers, principals, and education professionals from across Montenegro came together for an event that aimed to foster meaningful discussions on the ongoing professional development of teachers.
We were privileged to have Anđela Jakšić-Stojanović, Minister of Education, Science, and Innovation of Montenegro, and Dawn McKen, UK ambassador British Embassy Podgorica, deliver opening speeches at the conference. They both highlighted the significance of ongoing investment in teacher professional development. After opening speeches, Ljiljana Subotić from the Bureau for Education Services of Montenegro delivered a presentation on the Continuous Professional Development System in Montenegro. Her presentation provided a thorough overview of the current opportunities and challenges in this field.
The conference then shifted its attention to two panel discussions focused on teacher professional development and the role of principals in monitoring and evaluating teacher professional development at the institutional level.
The first panel focused on teacher professional development, and discussed its critical components, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and practical application in teaching practices. Key points included strategies for effective professional development, impact on teaching practices, and cross-border collaboration.
The discussion underscored the necessity of equipping educators with the latest knowledge and skills to adapt to an ever-changing educational landscape.
The second panel focused on the role of directors in monitoring and evaluating teacher professional development at the institutional level. Key points discussed were the importance of leadership, effective monitoring and evaluation, making data-driven decisions, the benefits of collaborative approaches, and approaches to overcoming challenges.
Thank you to all our speakers, panellists, and attendees for their valuable contributions. Together, we are committed to fostering lifelong learning and professional development in education.