A recent change to Serbia’s higher education accreditation framework has formally acknowledged the relevance of training for academics who teach in English. The development gives English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) training a clearer role in demonstrating the competences required of teaching staff working on foreign-language study programmes. 

The National Entity for Accreditation and Quality Assurance in Higher Education of the Republic of Serbia (NEAQA) has recognised EMI training as relevant evidence of teaching staff competence within the accreditation process for study programmes. 

Under the Regulations on Standards and Procedure for Accreditation of Study Programmes, in force since 6 February 2026, Standard 12, “Studies in a foreign language,” requires teaching staff and associates delivering courses in a foreign language to demonstrate appropriate competence to teach in that language. 

One way of demonstrating this competence is through the completion of specialised training for teaching in English. The Tempus Foundation, Serbia’s National Erasmus+ Agency and an ACA member, has successfully delivered EMI training in recent years with the support of the U.S. Embassy in Serbia and, this year, the U.S. Department of State. 

Beyond meeting accreditation requirements, EMI training helps lecturers strengthen both their language and pedagogical skills. It also equips them to work more effectively in international classrooms and communicate with students from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds. 

By investing in the professional development of teaching staff, higher education institutions can strengthen the quality and international profile of their study programmes while creating new opportunities for international cooperation. 

To learn more about English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) training in Serbia, visit the Foundation Tempus EMI website.