The Education System Digitalization Strategy 2022–2027 of Montenegro

The Education System Digitalization Strategy 2022–2027 of Montenegro, published in October 2021 with an Action Plan for 2022–2023, provides a comprehensive roadmap for transforming the country’s education system through the use of digital technologies. Developed by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with UNICEF and based on EU digital education frameworks, the strategy outlines three core strategic goals:

1. Improvement of the Education Information System (MEIS)

This goal addresses the modernisation and expansion of Montenegro’s centralised education database and digital services.

Key components include:

• Legislative reforms to align MEIS operations with GDPR and create legal preconditions for inter-ministerial data exchange.
• Hardware improvements to replace outdated infrastructure, which averages 10–15 years old.
• Software upgrades to support the secure and efficient operation of services like online enrollments, digital certificates, and performance tracking.
• Data quality and reliability enhancements with internal procedures and improved user training.
• Interoperability development with systems like the Government Service Bus (GSB).
• Strengthening human resources, especially ICT specialists within the Ministry and educational institutions.

2. Development and improvement of the digital ecosystem

This goal focuses on enabling a supportive infrastructure and digital content environment in schools.

Priorities include:

• Establishing a planning and development mechanism for digital initiatives.
• Upgrading school infrastructure, ensuring Wi-Fi and devices are available in classrooms beyond just IT labs.
• Creating and integrating digital content, including multimedia textbooks and resources for children with special needs.
• Developing a platform for independent learning and improving platforms for collaboration, like Microsoft Teams.
• Enhancing legal frameworks to support digital education reforms.

3. Development and improvement of digital skills and competencies

The strategy recognises that digital transformation requires empowered teachers and students.

Objectives include:

• Training teachers via structured professional development in areas like digital pedagogy, programming, and online safety.
• Enhancing students’ digital literacy, particularly among vulnerable groups.
• Promoting safe technology use and cyber hygiene.
• Implementing awareness campaigns to boost understanding of digital tools and careers in ICT.

Foundational Research and Context

The strategy was based on:

• A detailed baseline assessment of infrastructure, laws, and institutional readiness.
• Two cycles of SELFIE surveys to understand digital maturity in schools.
• A comprehensive SWOT and problem tree analysis, revealing gaps in digital readiness, digital literacy, equipment, and inclusive access.

Stakeholder involvement

Numerous stakeholders are engaged, including:

• Educational institutions, teachers, students, and parents.
• Ministries (Education, Interior, Finance, Public Administration).
• National agencies and international organisations like UNICEF.

Implementation and monitoring

• Includes a detailed Action Plan 2022–2023, Gantt chart, and indicators.
• Monitoring is aligned with national and EU strategic frameworks, including the EU Digital Education Action Plan 2021–2027.

This strategy places digital education as a central pillar for both inclusion and quality improvement in Montenegro’s educational landscape, while explicitly addressing infrastructure, content, skills, and governance.