On Saturday, March 14, 2026, the Association Sport for All Serbia celebrated the official conclusion of the 12-week HEPA-Olympics pilot program at the Milan Đ. Milićević Elementary School in Belgrade. This international initiative, co-funded by the European Union, has successfully demonstrated the transformative power of educators as primary role models for healthy living.

The innovative pilot program brought together 100 educators from 10 elementary and high schools across Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, Inđija, Vojka, and Požarevac. Over the past three months, these teachers moved beyond their traditional academic roles to become certified HEPA Ambassadors, dedicating themselves to a rigorous training process to improve their personal health and professional vitality.

The success of the mission is best reflected in the enthusiastic reaction of the students, who found new inspiration in seeing their teachers lead active lifestyles. A significant long-term outcome of the project is the decision by several participating schools to officially integrate these recreation sessions (2-3 times per week) into their regular permanent work programs for staff starting next school year.

The closing ceremony was transformed into a vibrant sports festival where staff from all 10 participating schools competed in a spirit of friendly cooperation. The program, designed by the ASFAS team of experts, focused on team-building and coordination through a variety of activities:

• Classic Sports: Volleyball, basketball, and badminton.
• Skill and Precision Games: Darts and jump rope.
• Innovative Elements: Balloon games and specialized coordination polygons.

To ensure the training process continues, the Association provided the participating schools with new sports equipment and props. These resources will allow school coordinators and teachers to maintain their fitness routines and continue motivating their colleagues in the years to come.

Through the HEPA-O project, the Association Sport for All Serbia continues its mission of building an active community, proving that healthy habits within the school system are the key to a healthier society.

The HEPA-O project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the granting authority.