Domagoj Crnković, a representative of the PISMO incubator from Novska, a project that rightfully bears the epithet of one of the most positive and progressive in the entire region, recently visited Montenegro. PISMO, although a Croatian project by location, goes far beyond national borders in its mission of educating and developing the gaming industry. In an interview for our portal, Crnković revealed to us what is hidden behind the scenes of the project that everyone is already writing about, but also shared new, exclusive insights.
Center of the gaming industry – a campus without borders
"Currently, we are all living for the beginning of the construction of the Gaming Industry Center campus, which will be the largest in the region, and possibly beyond. It will be an area of education in the production of video games, including eSports, marketing and all related content related to the industry," Crnković pointed out.
What makes this project revolutionary is not only its size, but also its openness. Although Croatian citizens will have access to the scholarships, the doors of the program are open to everyone else, including students from Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the wider region.
"There are no restrictions on attendance, except that students from abroad cannot use state scholarships. However, everyone can participate if they cover their own living expenses," explained Crnković.
The first high school for video game development
PISMO is also proud of the fact that the first high school with a focus on video game development has been launched in Novska, a unique project in the Balkans. This gives young people the opportunity to enter the world of an industry that is growing at an incredible rate globally, at an early age.
"Our goal is not just to educate, but to create an entire ecosystem in which video games are learned, created, and lived. From workshops and seminars to university education, it's all part of the same vision," emphasizes Crnković.
Open to the region and the world
Despite the fact that the project is physically located in Croatia, its reach is certainly international.
"We are not here to keep knowledge to ourselves. Our goal is to grow together with the region and the world. Cooperation already exists with organizations from Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and other countries. Everyone is welcome," says Crnković.
He adds that education is the foundation of everything, and that gaming must be seen as a tool that connects, not divides. "The digital world connects us all with two clicks. So why should we limit ourselves?"
Moral guide and anomaly of the region
When asked whether PISMO can serve as a model for other countries by introducing gamification into school structures, Crnković answers with certainty: "We are proud that we are already seen as pioneers. We are ready to advise, help and transfer knowledge to anyone who wants to follow that path."
The interview ends with words of gratitude and a shared vision.
"To call us the pearl of the Balkans - that's wonderful to me. But I love it even more that we know that we are not alone. We work for the common good and we are here for everyone," concludes Crnković.
