NOVI SAD, Serbia — University students in Serbia are engaging in various activities such as reading, playing sports, or simply socializing as they maintain protest blockades that have stretched over several days.
Over the weekend, students occupied a bridge in the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad, where they camped in tents within a park and spent most of Sunday outdoors.
Teodora Kilibarda, who traveled to Novi Sad from the capital city of Belgrade, joined her peers for a game of volleyball. The park was alive with youthful energy as students gathered to make the most of their time during the protest.
“We are playing volleyball right now, and many of us are participating,” she remarked. “All of us are committed to this struggle; we are determined to keep fighting for positive change in our country.”
The university students are at the forefront of anti-corruption protests in Serbia that were ignited following a tragic incident on November 1, when a concrete canopy collapsed at the central train station in Novi Sad, leading to 15 fatalities and two severe injuries.
These demonstrations have seen massive participation, with crowds taking to the streets to seek justice for those affected by the disaster, which is attributed to inadequate renovation efforts and government corruption.
In recent weeks, students have organized a variety of actions, such as a two-day walk to Novi Sad, a 24-hour blockade of a key intersection in Belgrade, and several daily protests. Additionally, they have maintained a presence on their campuses for an extended period.
Their resolve and creativity have earned them respect and encouragement from across the nation.
During the bridge blockade, Aleksandar Ilic could be seen playing darts with a fellow student, aiming for a target hanging from a tree. “As you can tell, I just defeated my friend. We are having a good time while also being active in our protests,” he said. “Some of us are playing football or basketball, but I am hopeful that in the end, we will emerge victorious.”
To battle the chilly January weather, local residents have been generous, providing students with tea, coffee, pancakes, and hot meals. Some students pass the time by reading, watching movies, or playing musical instruments.
A student named Lidija expressed her joy about the vibrant environment, stating, “We have created a festival atmosphere here.”
“Spending 24 hours outside wasn’t as challenging as it might seem,” she remarked. “In this weather, it sounds daunting—but with all the activities we engage in, I believe everyone has managed quite well.”
Many participants appreciated the opportunity to meet fellow students from other cities who joined the blockade in Novi Sad.
In an interesting twist, a photography professor took the initiative to impart an old technique to students during this event. As Zeljko Mandic noted, “Professors take advantage of these moments to connect with students.”
For Marija Beljkas, a photography student from Belgrade, the key to their resilience lies in unity. She explained that being together is essential, as it has sustained their energy throughout two months of protests.
“As we await action on our demands and apply pressure on the authorities, we bond, share moments, and enjoy one another’s presence,” Beljkas expressed. “This sense of togetherness has been our source of strength.”
Over the weekend, students occupied a bridge in the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad, where they camped in tents within a park and spent most of Sunday outdoors.
Teodora Kilibarda, who traveled to Novi Sad from the capital city of Belgrade, joined her peers for a game of volleyball. The park was alive with youthful energy as students gathered to make the most of their time during the protest.
“We are playing volleyball right now, and many of us are participating,” she remarked. “All of us are committed to this struggle; we are determined to keep fighting for positive change in our country.”
The university students are at the forefront of anti-corruption protests in Serbia that were ignited following a tragic incident on November 1, when a concrete canopy collapsed at the central train station in Novi Sad, leading to 15 fatalities and two severe injuries.
These demonstrations have seen massive participation, with crowds taking to the streets to seek justice for those affected by the disaster, which is attributed to inadequate renovation efforts and government corruption.
In recent weeks, students have organized a variety of actions, such as a two-day walk to Novi Sad, a 24-hour blockade of a key intersection in Belgrade, and several daily protests. Additionally, they have maintained a presence on their campuses for an extended period.
Their resolve and creativity have earned them respect and encouragement from across the nation.
During the bridge blockade, Aleksandar Ilic could be seen playing darts with a fellow student, aiming for a target hanging from a tree. “As you can tell, I just defeated my friend. We are having a good time while also being active in our protests,” he said. “Some of us are playing football or basketball, but I am hopeful that in the end, we will emerge victorious.”
To battle the chilly January weather, local residents have been generous, providing students with tea, coffee, pancakes, and hot meals. Some students pass the time by reading, watching movies, or playing musical instruments.
A student named Lidija expressed her joy about the vibrant environment, stating, “We have created a festival atmosphere here.”
“Spending 24 hours outside wasn’t as challenging as it might seem,” she remarked. “In this weather, it sounds daunting—but with all the activities we engage in, I believe everyone has managed quite well.”
Many participants appreciated the opportunity to meet fellow students from other cities who joined the blockade in Novi Sad.
In an interesting twist, a photography professor took the initiative to impart an old technique to students during this event. As Zeljko Mandic noted, “Professors take advantage of these moments to connect with students.”
For Marija Beljkas, a photography student from Belgrade, the key to their resilience lies in unity. She explained that being together is essential, as it has sustained their energy throughout two months of protests.
“As we await action on our demands and apply pressure on the authorities, we bond, share moments, and enjoy one another’s presence,” Beljkas expressed. “This sense of togetherness has been our source of strength.”
