Montenegro has applied for $15 million in Adaptation Fund grants to strengthen the climate resilience of schools, with the proposal prepared by the Education Ministry with UNICEF and World Bank experts. A decision is expected by the end of 2026, with financing potentially available in 2027. The grant has not yet been approved.
If successful, the programme would finance school infrastructure upgrades, classroom equipment, teacher training and climate-related teaching materials.
Climate-Resilient Infrastructure
The planned investments would address risks including higher temperatures, extreme rainfall, flooding and drought. Measures could include drainage, shading, insulation, ventilation, water management and improvements to outdoor areas. Montenegro has experienced more intense summer heat, drought and heavy rainfall, while many public buildings were designed under earlier climate conditions. The programme would combine physical improvements with training and educational measures, including climate-related curricula and procedures for extreme weather events.
International Financing
The proposed funding would be non-repayable, reducing the need for additional public borrowing for investments that do not generate direct commercial revenue. Montenegro already has an education investment pipeline supported by the European Investment Bank, European Union and World Bank. The Adaptation Fund programme would add a specific climate-resilience component.
Coordination would be required with existing programmes covering energy efficiency, reconstruction, digitalisation and safety to avoid duplicated work.
Construction and Regional Needs
A $15 million programme would create demand for engineering, architecture, energy-efficiency equipment and construction services, with projects potentially distributed among municipalities. School requirements would differ by location. Coastal and central areas could require greater heat adaptation, while northern schools could face different needs related to snow, drainage and extreme weather. Internationally financed projects would also require compliance with donor procurement, environmental, health and safety, financial and reporting standards.
Public Investment
The proposal comes as Montenegro faces investment requirements across transport, energy, water, waste, healthcare and education, limiting the scope for financing all projects through additional debt. The government can combine EU grants, international climate finance and concessional lending to fund infrastructure. The $15 million application remains subject to approval by the Adaptation Fund. If approved, implementation could begin in 2027.
