On September 2, 2026, students at Maks Durjava Secondary School in Maribor began their new school year with a unique tradition that highlighted community support and mentorship. As part of the opening ceremony, 22 first-year students were symbolically welcomed into the school environment by older pupils who had previously been in higher grades. These senior students, known as devetošolci, presented the newcomers with yellow ribbons, a gesture meant to signify protection and assistance throughout their academic journey. The act was described as both emotional and meaningful, marking a key moment in the day’s events. The tradition of welcoming new students through symbolic gestures is not limited to the first day of school. Throughout the year, older students help younger ones navigate the school environment, guiding them to classrooms and offering support in integrating into the school community. This initiative fosters a sense of responsibility among the older students, who take on the role of mentors and protectors. According to Mojca Rozman, assistant headmaster at the school, the distribution of yellow ribbons was a powerful symbol of safety and transition. She noted that the older students acted as guardians, offering their hands in friendship and promising support along the school corridors. The morning began with the arrival of the youngest students, who were greeted by their class teacher, Petra Rozman. She accompanied them during the initial stages of their school journey. Headmaster Albert Mihajlović addressed the group, emphasizing the importance of cooperation, friendship, and curiosity. He reminded the students that school life extends beyond academics and includes opportunities for play and social bonding. A local parish priest, Davorka Pregl, also spoke to the children, wishing them a safe and successful start to the school year. She emphasized that school is not just about learning but also about building relationships and exploring friendships. The cultural programme for the day was organized by students from different classes. Second-year students performed an original rap called “Volk” alongside seven stuffed animals, which they had created together with teachers. Fifth-grade students sang an African song titled “Kin kaj ku,” while sixth-grade students led the procession, acting as the Red Cap, a traditional figure associated with guidance and protection. Fourth-year students opened the event with a dance performance set to the song “Ura” by the band Čuki. The day concluded with group and individual photo sessions, with each first-year student receiving a portrait upon leaving home, serving as a lasting memory of the beginning of their academic journey. The school year officially resumed after a summer break, with students returning to their classrooms. The first school holidays are scheduled for October, allowing time for students to adjust to the new routine. While the focus remained on the welcoming ceremony, other aspects of the school calendar were also being prepared. Reports from local media indicated that the first day of school saw some typical chaos, including haircuts, colorful outfits, and even eggs thrown around, common traditions in many schools. However, these activities were managed by emergency services, and education minister issued a warning against disruptive behavior. As the school year progresses, the roles of older and younger students will continue to evolve, with the mentorship system playing a crucial role in fostering a supportive and inclusive educational environment. The symbolic gesture of the yellow ribbons serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to care and collaboration within the school community.
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