6^th May 2025, Podgorica

The Human Resources Management Authority, with the support of the Ministry of European Affairs, the Ministry of Public Administration, and ReSPA, marked the successful conclusion of the first cycle of the Ready4EU Training Programme with a formal certificate award ceremony.

The ceremony featured opening remarks by Maida Gorčević, Minister of European Affairs; Marash Dukaj, Minister of Public Administration; Maja Handjiska Trendafilova, Director of ReSPA; and Agron M. Camaj, Director of the Human Resources Management Authority. Their speeches emphasized the strategic importance of the Ready4EU Programme in preparing Montenegrin civil servants to contribute meaningfully within EU institutions and international organizations.

Director Handjiska-Trendafilova expressed satisfaction with the successful implementation of the "Ready4EU" program and thanked the Government of Montenegro for their trust in "collaboratively designing and implementing this significant program, which is much more than training – it symbolizes Montenegro's dedication to its European future."

Handjiska-Trendafilova congratulated the program participants and praised their exceptional motivation, dedication, and readiness to assume responsibilities in future work within European Union institutions. "I hope that you will make the most of the upcoming study visit to EU institutions in Brussels facilitated by ReSPA for both gaining additional knowledge and networking with officials who will soon become your colleagues."

Lastly, the Director of ReSPA emphasized the institution's role in organizing training, providing access to relevant experts, and practical preparation for EPSO tests, as well as the significance of the valuable messages of support conveyed to participants by the EPSO Director, Ms. Minna Vuorio.

Following the opening addresses, certificates were ceremonially awarded to the 25 participants of the programme.

Demonstrating its continued commitment to excellence and mobility, ReSPA supported a special reward for the programme’s five top-performing participants—a study visit to the institutions of the European Union in Brussels. This opportunity will allow them to deepen their practical understanding of EU processes and enhance their readiness for future international roles.

The Ready4EU Programme was specifically tailored to strengthen the capacities of 23 civil servants for work within the EU’s institutional framework. Combining 21 expert-led lectures, hands-on workshops, and role-play simulations, the programme provided a comprehensive learning journey covering EU institutional architecture, legislative procedures, and essential soft skills for thriving in a multicultural, international administrative setting.

ReSPA’s integral role in the programme reaffirmed its mission to support the professional growth of civil servants throughout the Western Balkans and to actively prepare them for meaningful participation in the European administrative space.