Ministry of Education of Canton Sarajevo tells students: Articulate your demands in schools

(Patria) - The Ministry of Education of Canton Sarajevo, headed by Minister Naida Hota-Muminović, issued a press release after two days of young people protesting, demanding her resignation and stating that they were banned from participating in the protests.

"The tragedy that struck our community has left an indelible mark on all our hearts. Today, above all, we stand in silence with the family of the deceased young man, sharing a pain that no words can alleviate. To our injured student, we send all our strength for recovery, and to her loved ones, a promise that they are not alone in this struggle.

We are aware of the unrest in our schools and on the streets. We want to make it clear: The Ministry is not, and never will be, an obstacle to your right to seek justice. The voice of our students is proof that you have learned the most important lesson, the lesson of civic courage and empathy.

All claims about an alleged Ministry instruction regarding punishment, identification, or restriction of freedom of movement for students who wish to express their protest are untrue. We have never sent such a letter to schools. School is a space of freedom and responsibility, not coercion. Our duty is to ensure that the teaching process continues, but we will never do so at the expense of your dignity or your right to grieve and express your views. Rules on recording absences exist solely for your safety, so that we know at all times that you are well, not to restrain you.

Dear students, your teachers and pedagogues are not there only to grade you and teach subjects, but to be your support. We invite you to articulate your demands in schools, in a safe environment. We are here to turn those demands into actions.

We will not just talk; we will, as before, be your shield within the system. In cooperation with you, student councils, and experts, we will insist on urgent changes that will ensure we achieve the highest possible level of your safety. You are our conscience. We are your support," the Ministry's statement reads.