The Academy of Arts, University of Novi Sad, is calling upon the global academic and cultural community to stand in solidarity with Serbian students and university staff who continue to face unprecedented challenges following a national tragedy and subsequent government actions.
On November 1, 2024, a tragic collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad claimed the lives of 16 individuals and left one seriously injured. In the wake of this devastating event, student-led protests have been ongoing for over four months, drawing daily participation from across the country. The protests, which have grown into a wider movement for justice and accountability, have received steadfast support from the academic community and Serbian citizens.
In response to the protests, government measures have severely impacted the academic sector, slashing the salaries of professors and university staff, first by 50%, and as of May 2025, reducing them further to just 12.5% of their standard earnings.
To aid those most affected, the Academy of Arts is organising an online donor auction of artworks created by its own professors and associates from the Department of Fine and Applied Arts. The auction opened on April 28 and will remain live until May 10, 2025. All proceeds will go directly to support university employees who have suffered significant income loss due to recent policy changes.
Auction Link: Donor Auction of Artworks – Academy of Arts Novi Sad
Watch & Share: Support Video Message
Dean Prof. Zoran Krajišnik urges fellow institutions, artists, and educators worldwide to share this message, express solidarity, and, where possible, contribute through donations or by amplifying the voices of students and faculty in Serbia.
Help us raise awareness and extend the reach of this vital cause.
With gratitude and resolve,
The Academy of Arts, University of Novi Sad
