Decision of the National Council for Education of Montenegro on the adoption of the subject program 'Film Culture'

Music and visual arts, as well as language and literature, are studied from the earliest years of schooling because through them children develop creativity, sensitivity, expressive abilities, and understanding of the world around them. The development of technology and the digital age have introduced information and communication technologies, programming, and coding into schools. Similarly, there has long been a need for audiovisual culture to have a clearer and more systematic place in the educational curriculum. In recent years, new media laws, including the Law on Audiovisual Media Services, have aligned our regulatory framework more closely with European standards and opened space for stronger connections with the European audiovisual sector, including renewed participation in the Creative Europe MEDIA program. However, the legislative framework is only part of the work. That is why the introduction of 'Film Culture' has a broader significance, as it simultaneously contributes to cultural, film, and media literacy among young people. It is particularly valuable that students will learn about film language, the history of cinematography, and various film forms, as well as have the opportunity to develop their own creativity. In this way, we develop a new film audience, nurture critical thinking, and I believe, open space to recognize some of the future Montenegrin authors among these students. Congratulations to the Montenegrin Film Centre, the National Council for Education, and all experts involved in developing the program. This is a good example of how connecting culture and education can yield concrete and long-term results. The Ministry of Culture and Media strongly supports initiatives that bring culture closer to children and youth because the attitude towards art, cultural heritage, and creativity is built from the earliest age.