Winter School of Programming and Game Development – Code&Play
The Code&Play Winter School project was implemented as an educational program aimed at computer science students and high school students interested in modern IT technologies.
Over the course of six months, participants gained knowledge and skills through three specialized programs:
Frontend web application development using the React framework (for students)
Backend web application development using the Laravel framework (for students)
Game development using the Unity engine (for high school students)
The trainings were led by experienced experts and mentors from the IT sector: Zoran Mastilović and Marko Lekić, technical directors of Data Design and Fleka companies, respectively, in the field of web programming, while game development was conducted under the mentorship of Aleksandar Dlabač, director of Codelab.
The programs were designed as intensive courses lasting 40 hours each, featuring interactive work, practical exercises, and small group collaboration, which contributed to a high quality of instruction and a personalized approach. Lectures were held live, with additional support provided through online consultations.
The project aimed to improve the practical skills of young people for work in the rapidly growing IT sector, thereby supporting Montenegro’s economic development and opening new career advancement opportunities.
Target Audience
Computer science students from three Montenegrin universities were eligible to participate in the React and Laravel programs, provided they had an intermediate level of knowledge of relevant programming languages, proficiency in English, and access to their own laptop. Selection was conducted through an entrance exam.
High school students from Podgorica, Nikšić, Danilovgrad, Bijelo Polje, Herceg Novi, and Zeta were enabled to participate in the Unity program, with special focus on students from vocational schools and gymnasiums interested in web and mobile application development.
Participant Outcomes
Gained deep understanding of web and game development
Acquired practical skills in React, Laravel, and Unity technologies
Developed teamwork, critical thinking, communication, and presentation skills
Increased readiness for work and growth in the IT industry
This program is funded by the Montenegrin Innovation Fund through the program for implementing educational programs in smart specialization areas, and is implemented by ICT Cortex.