On February 6, 2025, a solemn ceremony was held in the crypt of the Church of Saint Sava in Vračar, where scholarships were awarded to school and university students from large, low-income families living in Serbia. This year, the total scholarship fund amounted to 15,660,000 dinars, with each recipient receiving an annual stipend of 180,000 dinars (approximately 1,500 euros). Financial support was granted to 87 students from Serbian secondary schools and universities.
Speakers at the ceremony emphasized the significance of the Sima Igumanov Foundation, which has been supporting Serbian youth and education for over a century. Patriarch Porfirije noted that three years ago, the foundation decided to prioritize scholarships for students from large families, aiming to support their education and development.
This year, the foundation continued to expand its efforts, and thanks to the support of sponsors, the number of scholarship recipients increased once again. The ceremony featured musical performances by scholarship recipients, as well as a performance by the Church of Saint Sava Choir.
At the conclusion of the event, Serbian Patriarch Porfirije delivered a sermon on the role of education and upbringing in society:
"One of the most important aspects for any nation, including ours, is enlightenment and education. Economy, security, protected borders—all of these are important, but without faith in Christ and His presence among the people, everything turns into an empty shell. Orthodox faith has not only shaped us historically but has also given us the strength to preserve our identity even in the most difficult times. This faith has left its mark, especially in the field of education and upbringing.
That is why, among many important issues, nothing is as significant as education. If we have everything—strength, power, wealth—but lack education, sooner or later we will become nothing more than dust in the wind."