A delegation of the Institute for Education Quality and Evaluation visited the Book and Education Fair in Novi Sad on Friday, 20 March. The fair, held from 17 to 23 March, brought together publishers, educational institutions, and a wide audience, providing a platform for dialogue, exchange of knowledge, and presentation of educational resources.
At the fair, the Institute presented its publishing activities, with a particular focus on task collections in Serbian language, mathematics, and the third elective subject. These publications are designed to support both classroom teaching and individual student preparation, contributing to the development of functional knowledge and skills.
Discussions with visitors addressed key challenges related to the final exam, as well as the upcoming mock final exam scheduled for 27 and 28 March. The Institute emphasised the importance of continuous preparatory teaching within schools, highlighting that effective preparation cannot be reduced to short-term test practice but requires a structured and sustained approach.
In exchanges with students, teachers, and parents, it was underlined that the final exam should not be viewed merely as the final output of primary education. Instead, it represents a step within a broader educational process aimed at preparing eighth-grade students for the transition to secondary education. The focus is therefore placed on readiness for future learning and challenges, rather than on testing alone.
The programme also included discussion on international assessments implemented by the Institute in the Republic of Serbia. Particular attention was given to PIRLS, the international study assessing reading literacy. It was highlighted that participation in such studies is only one aspect, while the real value lies in the effective use of results to inform teaching practices, curriculum development, and everyday classroom work.
The event was moderated by Dr Maja Stokin from the Svetozar Marković Gymnasium in Novi Sad, who facilitated interaction with the audience and contributed to a dynamic and engaging discussion. The audience included a large number of primary school students, as well as parents, teachers, and other visitors, ensuring a diverse and active exchange.
The Institute’s participation at the fair reaffirmed the importance of direct engagement with stakeholders in the education system, as well as the need for continuous communication and inclusion of the wider public in discussions on education.
