Vuković Ends Hunger Strike, Content with Education Inspectorate’s Recommendation to Dismiss Međedović
Vuković, Photo: Jadranka Ćetković
Professor Novo Vuković from the Bijelo Polje “Miloje Dobrašinović” Gymnasium announced to “Vijesti” that he has ended his hunger strike, feeling hopeful after the Education Inspectorate’s indication that it will recommend the dismissal of the school’s principal, Jasminka Međedović.
Earlier today, the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (MESI) confirmed that the Education Inspectorate intends to suggest the removal of Međedović.
Vuković refrained from commenting extensively on the Ministry’s decision and is awaiting the final resolution.
“Patience is virtue, and when the time arrives for her retirement, we will see her off peacefully. I urge the Minister to explain the absence of classes to students who have been affected. These were crucial lessons for students defending human dignity. I also call on the Ministry of Education to address this issue decisively. Many teachers within the school remain uninformed, negligent, or have acquired diplomas through dishonest means. Let this initiative serve as the foundation for rectifying the educational system. I propose a thorough inspection by educational authorities; let qualified, earnest individuals assess our classrooms and address the prevailing ignorance across our institutions,” stated Vuković.
Students of Bijelo Polje High School have been protesting for several days, demanding the principal’s removal, arguing that the situation with Professor Vuković is not the sole instance of improper and illegal conduct on her part.
A video that circulated online depicted a security guard entering a classroom and asking Vuković to exit.
In a statement to the media, Principal Međedović mentioned that Vuković had unauthorizedly removed a geography teacher from both the classroom and office on March 13th without prior notice or consultation with the school administration.
Međedović also clarified that Vuković had formally signed a decision for annual leave beginning March 12, which continued until his mandatory retirement on April 8.
During this period, the school hired a geography teacher to ensure continuity in education.
Last week, Vuković told “Vijesti” that he had returned to work on March 12 and never ceased his teaching duties despite the scheduled vacation.
He noted that a farewell celebration was arranged for March 11, a day that Principal Jasminka Međedović coincidentally scheduled a cross-country race to interfere with the festivities.
“Out of defiance, I continued teaching despite having signed a vacation request intended to start the following day, March 12,” he shared with “Vijesti.”
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