Speaking at a press conference, Fila pointed out that the deadlines for obtaining licences or prerequisites for receiving the licenses automatically, that is without taking a licensing exam, are all envisaged in the rulebook on obtaining work permits, which has been in effect since May 2005.
Fila said that the licence guarantees quality of work of educational staff in Serbia. Together with the previously announced programmes for assessment and self-assessment of schools, this will help in approximating the education in Serbia to European standards of quality.
According to Fila, these licences will be obligatory for teachers employed in both state and private schools and educational institutions. Licences will be permanent, but may also be suspended or revoked if necessary.
Head of the Exam Department at the Serbian Ministry of Education and Sport Momir Grahovac said that introduction of licences represents a qualitatively new approach in the educational system and added that the first 11 candidates obtained their licences in late 2005.
The deadline for obtaining a licence has been set for March 2007. Apart from offering the opportunity of continuous professional development, this exam will also provide an opportunity for a career move through acquiring one of the four titles – a pedagogical counselor, a mentor, an instructor or a senior pedagogical counselor, explained Grahovac.