Day 3 – Reflect
Podgorica, Montenegro, 15 May 2026
The final day of the NO-DEPENDENCE educational programme Discover → Experience → Reflect was dedicated to reflection, discussion and presentation of research ideas related to advanced materials, environmental protection and sustainable energy systems. The Reflect session was held on 15 May 2026 at the University Sports and Cultural Centre of the University of Montenegro within the framework of the SPS MYP G6037 project – “Development of Hydrogen Compressors (NO-DEPENDENCE)”, implemented with the support of the NATO Science for Peace and Security Programme.
Moderated by Prof. Milena Tadić, the final session provided participants with an opportunity to connect the knowledge and experiences gained during the previous days of the programme with broader scientific and technological challenges related to future energy systems.
A particularly valuable part of the session was the presentations delivered by alumni of the Faculty of Technology, University of Montenegro:
- MSc Emina Međedović
- MSc Marija Bajković
- MSc Aleksandra Žurić.
The presented research topics included:
- pyrophyllite-based composites for dye removal from wastewater;
- biomass-based materials for oil removal from water;
- application of chitosan as a potential adsorbent for wastewater treatment.
Although primarily focused on environmental applications, the presented research also demonstrated the broader importance of advanced materials and sustainable processes for future hydrogen and energy technologies. Special attention was devoted to the role of functional materials, water treatment processes and material behaviour in the development of sustainable technological systems.
The session encouraged discussion of how research in materials science can contribute not only to environmental protection but also to future energy solutions, including technologies relevant to hydrogen production, storage, and sustainable energy infrastructure.
An important aspect of the Reflect session was creating space for dialogue among students, researchers, and participants from diverse backgrounds, encouraging interdisciplinary thinking and connecting scientific research with real societal and technological challenges.
At the closing session, certificates of participation were awarded to all participants of the NO-DEPENDENCE educational programme.
The final day of the programme concluded the Discover → Experience → Reflect concept by emphasising the importance of connecting scientific understanding, experimental research and critical reflection in the development of future energy technologies.
Hydrogen is not a universal solution. But understanding where it matters – is.