Student protests in Serbia have intensified, marked by a bicycle journey towards Strasbourg that commenced on April 3, aimed at raising awareness of student demands and the tragic deaths of 16 individuals in a shelter collapse in Novi Sad.

As of last night, the student cyclists reached Vienna where they were welcomed at Maria-Theresien-Platz.

They plan to continue their journey to Emersdorf on the Danube, covering approximately 88 kilometers.

Simultaneously, significant demonstrations occurred in Belgrade following the arrest of Stefan Radojičić, a student from the Faculty of Transport.

Radojičić stated he was detained over a video aired on Informer television, prompting protests in front of the Police Headquarters in Belgrade, spearheaded by fellow students.

Their assembly highlighted concerns over freedom and solidarity against perceived violence and intimidation.

In the northern city of Novi Sad, teachers, students, and parents gathered in front of Jovina Gymnasium in response to announcements about transitioning to online classes, seeking further clarity from the School Administration amidst discontent regarding sudden changes in education.

The student bicycle protest continues to bring attention to various issues, with participants expressing their resolve to fulfill demands related to the tragic accident and ongoing student frustrations.

An informal group of students from Niš proposed the creation of an expert government as a solution to the country’s political crisis, articulating dissatisfaction with existing political structures.

They emphasize the necessity of forming a government composed of specialists rather than party affiliates, to restore institutional integrity and address the pressing issues facing society.

Students articulated their frustrations through a public announcement, questioning the government’s lack of response following months of protests, and emphasizing the need for a government built on expertise and accountability to stabilize current conditions in Serbia.

In Belgrade, the President of the National Assembly, Ana Brnabić, publicly stated that she perceives a connection between the protesting students and opposition parties, suggesting their goals align in advocating for a transitional government.

This comment arose amidst ongoing discussions about potential radicalization of protests and the calls for political change spurred by student movements.

As the protests evolve, the participants have made clear their intent to continue advocating for their demands, with several organized actions planned, such as 'Malo večernje dinstanje' near Vukov Spomenik, designed to solidify community support for their cause.

The situation remains dynamic, as student protests challenge established political norms and demand changes that reflect a broader societal consensus on governance and accountability.

Recent discussions surrounding the proposed expert government have prompted reactions from various segments of society, including the Faculty of Philosophy in Niš, which has expressed concerns surrounding the implications of such governmental structures.

Further complicating the landscape, the dean of the Faculty of Philosophy in Niš has sought police protection amid rising tensions, citing incidents of harassment and fear stemming from media portrayals and public sentiment.

The complexities of the protests reflect deep-rooted discontent with the current political state, encompassing demand for educational reforms, accountability for systemic failures, and a re-evaluation of governance that prioritizes expertise over political allegiance.