Vucic: Serbia to enable foreign students to get citizenship and work here

BELGRADE - Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced on Wednesday Serbia would make it possible for foreign students to obtain Serbian citizenship to enable them to stay and work in the country after completing their studies.

"I will do my best to ensure we enable those who have studied for several years - especially those who have been successful students - to not only stay and reside here in Serbia, but to also get citizenship, so that you can live here," Vucic told African students who had expressed a desire to live and work in Serbia after their studies.

"We have nothing against you returning to your countries, but Serbia, too, is your country, and you have spent a significant period of time in it," he said.

At a Palace of Serbia ceremony that marked the 15th anniversary of the World in Serbia scholarship programme for students from Non-Aligned Movement member or observer states, Vucic said their knowledge was a resource Serbia wanted to keep.

"We want to utilise your knowledge, your work and your work ethic," he said.

Since its inception in the academic year of 2010-2011, the programme has provided more than 2,000 students with free education at Serbia's state-owned universities, including preparatory Serbian language classes, board and lodging, monthly allowances and health insurance.