Gecić Law is proud to announce its contribution to a groundbreaking scholarship agreement. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed yesterday in Bruges between Telekom Srbija and the College of Europe. Telekom Srbija will provide up to ten annual scholarships for students in Serbia to attend this prestigious institution. Additionally, the students will have the opportunity to work at Telekom Srbija for at least one year following their studies. This pioneering effort is the first in the broader Adriatic and Balkan regions.
The scholarship program applies to the Master’s in European Studies at the College of Europe. The college has campuses in Bruges, Belgium, Warsaw, Poland, and soon in Albania’s capital, Tirana. The selection process will be fully public and transparent.
This initiative is poised to significantly contribute to developing essential national expertise necessary for Serbia’s path towards EU integration. Furthermore, it aims to create a generation of leaders to strengthen ties and foster cooperation with institutions and businesses across the EU.
Federica Mogherini, the former High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Rector of the College of Europe since 2020, endorsed the initiative on behalf of the College of Europe. Herman Van Rompuy, the former President of the European Council, is the chairman of the institution’s board.
“This initiative marks a significant milestone for European studies and Serbia’s journey towards EU accession. By supporting this innovative scholarship agreement with the College of Europe, we are opening doors for up to ten talented Serbian students every year, paving the way for future leaders in law, economics, and public administration. By leading this initiative, our client, Telekom Srbija, demonstrates their dedication to fostering talent and strengthening Serbia’s capabilities for further growth and development. We are incredibly proud to contribute to this historic venture, aiding in the advancement of national expertise and the European integration of our country,” stated Bogdan Gecić, founding partner at Gecić Law.
In a related development, EU Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen recently announced that the EU Commission would offer up to fifteen scholarships to students from the Western Balkans over the next three years.
The College of Europe, recognized as the most prestigious and elite educational institution in the European Union for postgraduate studies in law, economics, and public administration, has been instrumental in the careers of numerous officials and functionaries of the European Commission. Founded in 1949 by notable European figures and EU founders, including Salvador de Madariaga, Winston Churchill, Paul-Henri Spaak, and Alcide De Gasperi, the College aims to cultivate “the spirit of solidarity and mutual understanding among all peoples of Western Europe” and to “train an elite cadre of young European leaders.” The College’s Natolin (Warsaw) campus was inaugurated in 1992, while a campus in Tirana is currently being established. Its alums include diplomats and high-ranking officials in European institutions. Politico’s 2021 study states that the College of Europe is the most represented alma mater among senior EU officials.
