BANJA LUKA STUDENTS ORGANIZE A RALLY IN SUPPORT OF THEIR SERBIAN PEERS

In solidarity with students in Serbia, an informal group of students from the University of Banja Luka has scheduled a peaceful rally on Friday, January 31, to show support for their colleagues.

"We invite all our fellow students, professors, university staff, as well as all citizens, to join us for a peaceful gathering in support of students in Serbia. The rally will take place in the main alley of the Banja Luka Student Campus. In memory of the victims of the tragic November 1, 2024, canopy collapse in Novi Sad, we are organizing this event to express clear support for students in Serbia. Join us on January 31 at 11:30 AM as we stand together to uphold the dignity of higher education," the student statement reads.

The group emphasized that they distance themselves from any political organizations, activist groups, or non-governmental organizations.

This rally comes in the context of ongoing student protests in Serbia. For nearly three months, Serbian students have been demanding that the truth be uncovered and all those responsible for the November 1 canopy collapse at the Novi Sad Railway Station, which claimed 15 lives, be held accountable.

Alongside students, thousands of Serbian citizens have been marking 15 minutes of silence daily in memory of the victims. Protests, attended by thousands of students, pupils, teachers, and public figures, have been calling for accountability and justice.

On January 27, Serbian students staged a one-day blockade of the Autokomanda intersection in Belgrade, a peaceful protest that ended without incident. The following day, Serbian Prime Minister Miloš Vučević and Novi Sad Mayor tendered their irrevocable resignations, while Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić announced plans for a major government reshuffle.