Montenegrin-Primorsky Metropolitan Ioanniky has congratulated schoolchildren, students, parents and teachers on the start of the new academic year, calling for education to be accompanied by moral development, responsibility and positive personal example.

In his message, published on the metropolitanate’s website, Metropolitan Ioanniky said the beginning of the school year brings not only new responsibilities and preparation for classes, but also the joy of reuniting with friends and teachers. For students, he said, it is an opportunity to gain new knowledge as well as valuable life experience.

The metropolitan stressed that education should go hand in hand with upbringing. He highlighted the important role of parents and teachers in shaping children’s character and abilities, emphasizing that adults themselves must set an example.

“Every upbringing and education should begin with ourselves,” Metropolitan Ioanniky said, urging adults to demonstrate the values of peace, love, truth, freedom and responsibility in their daily lives.

He also called for the preservation of the Serbian language and Cyrillic script, saying they help younger generations understand the history, culture, traditions and spiritual heritage of the Serbian people. At the same time, he noted that learning other languages and cultures broadens horizons and encourages respect for people with different cultural experiences.

Concluding his message, Metropolitan Ioanniky wished children, parents and teachers good health, patience and love, as well as success in their studies and personal development.

“You are our future and our hope for a better and more blessed tomorrow,” he told the children.