Launch of public works project

On June 25, 2010, Ethno Network organized the launch of a nation-wide public works project that is implemented in cooperation with Ministry of economy and regional development, National Employment Agency and NALED.

The launch was held at In Hotel in Novi Beograd and attended by the state secretary for regional development, Mrs. Dragijana Radonjic-Petrovic, Director of National Employment Agency, Mr. Dejan Jovanovic, as well as representatives of local governments and producers from 23 municipalities throughout Serbia. The guest list included select donors and international organizations that support activities oriented towards employment of women and youth in rural areas.

This project employs 100 producers from 23 municipalities throughout Serbia to be employed for six months. The main goal of the project is to generate employment by actively preserving Serbian cultural heritage. Handicrafts produced within the project are deeply rooted into Serbian tradition and refreshed with modern design and attractive packaging and product certificates.

State secretary Radonjic-Petrovic delivered the employment contracts to 23 groups including a 100 producers. Mrs. Radonjic-Petrovic confirmed that the project is valued 20million dinars and will employ 100 women over six months, adding that \'this is just one of the employment measured implemented by the Ministry of economy. A billion and eight hundred thousand was allocated for the First chance program to provide employment opportunities for young graduates. Moreover, what is of importance in Ethno Network project is employment of women in rural areas by active preservation of Serbian heritage\'.

Director of National Employment Agency, Mr. Dejan Jovanovic stated on the occasion that the handicrafts produced during the project will be sold and/or delivered as gifts on select diplomatic visits and official holidays. Mr. Jovanovic stated that the government set aside 700million dinars for public works in 2010 aiming to employ 5