A full lecture theatre, new faces and the energy of a generation embarking on its engineering journey – this was the atmosphere at the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering as it welcomed its 79th cohort of students. Their first week at the Faculty began with introductory lectures in mathematics and physics, seven days before the official start of the academic year on October 5. For the new students, this was an opportunity to meet their lecturers and receive essential information about the organization of teaching and the academic work that awaits them during their first year of study.
Once again, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering was among the most popular choices for young people in the field of engineering and technology. This is reflected in the enrolment figures: a total of 690 new students enrolled on the two undergraduate academic study programmes – Mechanical Engineering, including the English-taught programme, and Information Technologies in Mechanical Engineering. Of the total number of newly enrolled students, 172 are women.
“This is always one of the loveliest days of the academic year, because the lecture theatre is almost completely full and you can feel a new energy across the Faculty,” prof. dr Vladimir Popović said, the Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, as he welcomed the new cohort.
Professor Popović reminded the students that the Faculty had maintained a long-standing tradition of offering introductory preparatory classes. “These classes are designed to help you revisit what you learned at secondary school and refresh your knowledge so that you can begin your studies better prepared,” the Dean explained.
In his address, he particularly emphasised the importance of choosing the right faculty and profession. “I believe you have chosen the right faculty – one that will further develop the way you think. I am confident that you have made the right choice for your future career and professional development,” prof. dr Popović said.
He noted that interest in enrolling at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering had once again been high this year, which, he stressed, was an important indication of the confidence young people placed in the institution. “You are our future. Without you, without our students, neither the Faculty nor its development would be possible. That is why this is the most wonderful sight we could hope to see in this lecture theatre,” the Dean said.
He advised the new students to remain persistent throughout their studies, study regularly and meet their academic obligations, while also fostering a spirit of collegiality.
“Socialise, work together and communicate with one another. This is very important. In a way, completing your studies at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering also means learning together,” prof. Popović emphasised.
Reflecting on the demanding nature of the programme, he acknowledged that studying at the Faculty was not easy, but stressed that all challenges could be overcome through consistent effort and a responsible approach to academic commitments.
At the end of his address, he wished the 79th cohort a successful start and every success throught their studies. “We are delighted to see the lecture theatre filled like this. It guarantees a future for both the Faculty and the University of Belgrade,“ prof. Popović said, wishing the students every success in their academic journey.
The welcome event was also attended by prof. dr Maja Todorović, Vice-Dean for International Cooperation, prof. dr Dragoslava Stojiljković, Vice-Dean for Research, heads of departments, mathematics and physics lecturers, and representatives of the Student Affairs Office.