The project “Music of Hope: An Inclusive and Diversity-Sensitive Music Curriculum for Working with Marginalized Children and Youth”, implemented by the association Music Art Project (MAP), was successfully completed with the support of the United States Embassy in Belgrade, in partnership with schools and local communities in Zemun and Bujanovac.

The aim of the project was to improve educational inclusion of children from marginalized groups—primarily the Roma community and children from multiple vulnerable backgrounds—through the development of an innovative, culturally sensitive music curriculum and empowering teachers for its application.

Education That Listens to Every Student
Within the project, an inclusive music curriculum was developed that uses music as a tool for social integration, fostering empathy and teamwork. The curriculum was designed in collaboration with domestic and international experts, with special modules for orchestral performance, music literacy, and group work. The curriculum was piloted and applied in the following schools:

  • Elementary School “Branko Pešić,” Zemun

  • Music School “Bujanovac” and Elementary School “Branko Radičević,” Bujanovac

  • Music School “Milenko Živković,” Paraćin

At a conference held on December 23, 2024, at the European House in Belgrade, it was presented as a model for further advancement of inclusive education in Serbia.

Strengthening the Capacity of Teachers and the Community
The project organized a series of accredited trainings and seminars, during which 170 teachers and educators from Belgrade, Paraćin, and Bujanovac enhanced their knowledge and skills for working with children from sensitive groups. Trainings were also conducted within the Resource Center of the Ministry of Education at Elementary School “Branko Pešić” in Zemun. Special attention was given to working with families and strengthening cooperation between schools and local governments. Throughout the project, over 50 direct contacts were established with parents, teachers, and community representatives, further strengthening the support network for students.

Children Who Are Heard
The music program was attended by 135 students from Zemun and Bujanovac through weekly workshops and classes in music and elementary schools. In addition to learning music, children received psychosocial support, and their progress was monitored through pedagogical maps and team reflection.

During the year, students performed at more than 30 concerts and public events, including the opening of the EXIT Festival, the UNICEF conference “Together for Every Child”, as well as school concerts for parents and the local community in Zemun and Bujanovac. Performances were part of testing the results of the innovative curriculum and served as an opportunity to build self-confidence, connect with the audience, and affirm the students’ work.

Thanks to this project, the municipalities of Zemun and Bujanovac have become spaces for hundreds of children and their families where music opens doors to free expression, mutual respect, and acceptance of cultural diversity. Through cooperation among local communities, schools, and families, a strong hand of support was offered, empowering children and their families, building bridges of understanding and togetherness.

You can download our PDF Curiculum from this LINK