Young people want and need to learn about the 1990s to better understand not only that era but also certain aspects of their daily lives, considering the impact of events from that time on contemporary society. This was highlighted during today’s Museum of the 90s – A new approach to learning workshop, organized by the Centre for Civic Education (CCE) in Podgorica to present this part of history to high school students in a more engaging and dynamic way, using modern teaching methods.
The workshop attracted significant interest, bringing together around 35 high school students. The first part, led by historian Miloš Vukanović, focused on the importance of learning about the 1990s. In the second part, Vesna Kovačević, a history teacher, and Zvezdana Lakić, a teacher of history and geography, addressed the economic and social challenges in Yugoslavia during the wartime period from 1992 to 2000.
“The session on The Economy of Yugoslavia During the Civil War 1992–2000 that we conducted as the second segment of the workshop is crucial for both educators and students. It provides insight into the complex economic processes that shaped the region’s fate. This contributes to understanding the historical and social frameworks with an emphasis on critical thinking,” explained Vesna Kovačević and Zvezdana Lakić. They emphasized that the topic is especially valuable for young people, helping them grasp the consequences of war on the economy and society, while learning important lessons from the past. “Unfortunately, young people often lack sufficient information about this period, which can lead to distorted perceptions or a lack of understanding of these historical events. Through such workshops, they can gain deeper knowledge and develop a critical approach to history, empowering them to shape the future,” Lakić and Kovačević added.
“I joined the workshop to better understand the 1990s, a period that has left a lasting mark on contemporary society and culture,” said Eva Radunović, a workshop participant and student of the “Petar I Petrović Njegoš” Gymnasium. She noted that her associations with this period are linked to conflict, transition, but also a rich cultural scene, music, and films. “Through this workshop, I gained a deeper insight into how the events of that time influenced daily life, art, and social changes,” she said.
“My motivation to participate in this programme was to learn more about the 1990s, a time before I was born, but one I find particularly intriguing to explore. I enjoy studying history, especially this era, which also marked the development of today’s technology. I want to learn more about the beginnings of these changes,” said Miloš Ognjanović, a participant and student at the “Vaso Aligrudić” Secondary Electrical Engineering School in Podgorica.
The workshop Museum of the 90s – A new approach to learning is part of the project Museum of the 90s – A Regional Center for Reconciliation, Education, and Future Cooperation, implemented by the CCE from Montenegro and the Cultural Front from Serbia, with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands. This workshop is additionally supported by the French Agency for International Technical Cooperation (Expertise France).
Maja Marinović, Programme Associate