Culture on Life Support: Serbia’s Ministry of Culture Throws Millions at Cultural Centers, But Is It Enough?
Serbia is supposedly undergoing a cultural revolution — or so claims the Ministry of Culture. Recently, millions of dinars have been pouring into renovating cultural centers, with Kikinda and Niška Banja as prime examples of how the government and local authorities are trying to save cultural heritage from decay.
Kikinda: 12 Million Dinars for a Facade, But That’s Just the Start
The Ministry of Culture signed a contract worth 12 million dinars for the renovation of the facade of the Cultural Center in Kikinda. But that’s not all — the province will invest an additional 20 million, and the city of Kikinda about 8 million dinars. In total, around 40 million dinars are going into restoring this cultural gem. Minister Nikola Selaković praises this cooperation as an example of how small and large communities can unite around culture.
Selaković reminded that through the “Cities in Focus” program, Kikinda has already received 67 million dinars, and a total of 2.3 billion dinars have been invested across Serbia through this program. The Cultural Center in Kikinda, which was in a terrible state just a year ago, will now shine in full glory. But is this enough to save cultural heritage, or just a drop in the ocean of needs?
Niška Banja: Summer Stage for 14.7 Million Dinars
In Niška Banja, the Ministry of Culture approved 14.7 million dinars for the renovation and adaptation of the summer stage. The goal is to revive cultural life and strengthen the tourist offer of this part of the city. The mayor of Niška Banja and Minister Selaković signed the contract, with the minister emphasizing that this stage will become a gathering place for all generations and significantly contribute to spa tourism.
Besides these investments, the Ministry of Culture allocated 6 million dinars for the conservation and presentation of the thermal baths in Mediana, part of Niš’s archaeological heritage. Over the past five years, 5 million dinars were allocated for Mediana, and this year another 6 million, showing serious commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
Millions for Culture — But Where Are the Results?
Are these millions enough to stop the decay of cultural institutions? The Ministry of Culture and local governments are investing significant funds, but problems remain huge. Cultural centers and stages have been neglected for decades, and renovations are often just cosmetic.
Nikola Selaković stresses there is no division between small and large cities; what matters are dedicated people and vision. However, citizens wonder if this vision is clear enough and whether the investments will bring lasting change or just another project quickly forgotten.
What Do the Citizens Say?
While the authorities celebrate investments and contract signings, citizens of Kikinda and Niška Banja often ask where the real benefits are. Will cultural centers truly become places of gathering and creation, or remain just pretty facades? Will young people have places to express themselves and develop their talents?
Conclusion: Culture or Just Numbers?
Millions of dinars are spent on restoring cultural buildings, which is commendable. But the real fight for culture is much deeper and requires more than money. A clear strategy, support for artists, and active community involvement are needed.
As we wait to see if Kikinda and Niška Banja will truly shine, the question remains — is this just the beginning or another story of promises without real results?
So, what do you think? Are these millions just a waste of money or finally a light at the end of the tunnel for Serbian culture? Drop a comment, spark a debate, or just share a good joke about government spending — all is welcome in this cultural arena!
