The second cycle of the “Ready4EU” training program has begun, aimed at civil servants who wish to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to work in the institutions, bodies, and agencies of the European Union.
The “Ready4EU” training program is the result of cooperation between the Human Resources Administration, the Ministry of European Affairs, the Ministry of Public Administration, and the Regional School of Public Administration (ReSPA). The program’s goal is to contribute to building the administrative capacities of Montenegro’s civil service in the context of EU accession, by strengthening the professional competencies of civil servants to work in an international administrative environment.
At the official opening of the program, the following spoke:
- Biljana Papović, State Secretary at the Ministry of European Affairs
- Marija Hajduković, General Director at the Ministry of Public Administration
- Maja Handjiska Trendafilova, Director of ReSPA
- Agron M. Camaj, Director of the Human Resources Administration
- Đorđije Drinčić, Senior Adviser at the Ministry of Culture and Media
The speakers at the opening ceremony of the second cycle of the “Ready4EU” program emphasized the importance of continuous investment in knowledge and human resources as a key foundation for Montenegro’s European path.
State Secretary Biljana Papović stated that the program strengthens the foundations of a modern and professional public administration, ready for EU membership.
“The second cycle of Ready4EU offers participants a deeper understanding of European policies and decision-making mechanisms, as well as practical insights into how European institutions operate. Special focus is placed on developing competencies that will enable our civil servants to actively participate in post-accession processes, whether through engagement in European bodies or employment in EU institutions. This program thus becomes an investment in Montenegro’s future, as every training, new knowledge, and skill our civil servants gain represents a step toward a stronger, more professional, and resilient public administration.”
General Director Marija Hajduković emphasized that civil servants are key drivers of reform processes.
“Professional and competent civil servants are the pillar of public administration, and you, through your work, knowledge, and competencies, contribute to strengthening that pillar. Your participation in this program sends a strong message that Montenegro is not only ready to adopt EU standards but also to actively be part of them.”
ReSPA Director Maja Handjiska Trendafilova expressed satisfaction that the successful cooperation with the Government of Montenegro through the “Ready4EU” program continues in this cycle.
“We are proud to support the realization of the Government of Montenegro’s vision to be fully prepared for EU membership. Civil servants are at the center of our activities, as they are the bearers of key reform processes. This training will provide them with a strong foundation for successful work in the European environment,” said Handjiska Trendafilova, thanking the Ministry of European Affairs, the Human Resources Administration, and the Ministry of Public Administration for their partnership and support.
Director of the Human Resources Administration Agron M. Camaj highlighted that the program has become a symbol of a new culture in public administration, one that values knowledge and professional development.
“Today, as we launch the second cycle of the program, we can proudly say that we have created new energy and a new culture in our institutions—a culture of learning, cooperation, and results. The first cycle not only brought new knowledge but also demonstrated that there is an authentic desire in public administration for learning, personal development, and taking responsibility. This is the best proof that trust in knowledge and competence is returning to where it belongs—in state institutions.”
On behalf of the first cycle participants, Đorđije Drinčić shared his experiences and encouraged the new participants.
“The Ready4EU program has shown how important it is to continuously invest in the knowledge and professional development of civil servants. During the training, we had the opportunity to practically engage with the challenges and realities of European administration, exchange experiences, and build a network of cooperation. To the new participants, I say: be diligent, open, and persistent, because this approach brings the greatest benefits, both to the individual and the entire public administration.”
The second cycle of the “Ready4EU” program gathered 30 civil servants from various government bodies, reflecting the high interest this program generates among public administration employees.
Through five modules, participants will attend intensive training focused on acquiring knowledge about the functioning of EU institutions, legislative processes, project management, and other aspects of working in the European administrative space.
The training program is designed to provide participants with a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills through lectures, workshops, and simulations of real administrative situations, thereby enhancing their readiness for future roles in EU institutions.
With the launch of the second cycle, the “Ready4EU” program confirms the continuity and commitment to strengthening the capacities of Montenegro’s civil administration and its full alignment with European Union standards.