Serbia

Learning different languages is emphasized in Serbian schools very early. Most Serbian students begin learning their first foreign language, usually English, in first grade. By fifth grade, students are required to learn a second foreign language.

As a historically important point along the trade route between Europe and Asia, Serbian culture as a wide range of influences. These factors also help foster an interest in other cultures in many Serbs.

Students in Serbia must take examinations to determine what high school they will attend. There are two types of high schools in Serbia. The first is a comprehensive school, where students learn a variety of subjects and receive a certificate. The second is a technical or vocational school, where some general education courses are taken in addition to specific vocational training courses over two, three, or four years. The majority of Serbs are Orthodox Christians, though the country itself is secular and does not have an official religion. Other religions practiced in substantial numbers in Serbia include Roman Catholicism and Islam.

Fun Fact: Nearly 95 percent of the world’s highest- quality raspberries are from Serbia.