This is our trace in time

This is a story about a place where, despite the distance and harsh winters, children still receive an education, ambitions are born, plans are made, and hope is nurtured that life in the mountains still holds many beautiful surprises. Students and teachers showcased the most significant moments from the 122-year-long history of the school in Donji Bučumet, as well as from contemporary school life, through the video Trace in Time. “This is a letter that has lasted more than a century. A letter written in chalk, pen, and heart. It holds the steps, voices, and dreams of all who have studied here. And while time changes faces and walls, the spirit of the school remains the same. This is our trace in time.”

A touching dedication from the ‘Partizanski Dom’ school, which is situated at an altitude of about 650 meters. There, eight students set off for school every day, which means much more to them than just a place for learning. Some children walk two to three kilometers to the station, from where organized transport takes them another six kilometers to school. These kilometers, often in frost, rain, or snow, do not present an obstacle for them. For them, the classroom is their safe haven, the only nearby place where they can learn, socialize, and dream about the future.

It is precisely because of the needs of these children and their journey to knowledge that, through a project from our ‘Green Energy’ program, the old and worn-out windows and doors were completely replaced. The classrooms are now incomparably warmer during the winter. The children attend lessons in a healthier and more comfortable environment. Thanks to better thermal insulation, the consumption of firewood has decreased. This saves the school money and allows more investment in what truly matters—the students.

„Due to a large population outflow, the school is attended by a historically low number of students from first to eighth grade. Nevertheless, its existence is crucial for the survival of the community. If they did not have the opportunity to attend classes here, even fewer children would grow up in the village. And, more importantly, further education would be difficult for many to access,” emphasizes the school principal, Dragan Miletić.

In addition, photovoltaic systems have been installed on the school roof to generate electricity. Part of the electricity is supplied to the power grid, which further reduces electricity bills, making the school more

“Following these investments, the Municipality of Medveđa supported the school by replacing the old gutters. The building is now completely protected from the weather, and the new carpentry is safeguarded against damage. The school, which is over 120 years old, has gained a new appearance and strength, but its true significance lies not in the renovated windows and roof, but in the fact that it continues to preserve the sound of children’s laughter in a place where every child is invaluable,” added Director Miletić.

We hope that this project will also leave its mark over time, through the smiles of new generations of students in Bučumet.