International Relations office UNSA

9-13 June 2025

The University of Sarajevo hosted the 13th International Staff Training Week from June 9 to 13, 2025, welcoming representatives of partner universities from Europe and around the world. The event aimed to foster the exchange of experiences, networking, and capacity building in the field of internationalization and Erasmus+ programs, bringing together 44 teaching and administrative staff members from 29 higher education institutions across 16 countries. For the first time, the National Research Centre in Giza (Cairo, Egypt) also participated, further expanding the international scope of the event.

Participants of the 13th International Staff Training Week came from:

• Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece),
• Charles University (Czech Republic),
• Vocational Training Centre Valle de Elda (Spain),
• Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (Germany),
• Manisa Celal Bayar University (Turkey),
• Middle East Technical University – METU (Turkey),
• National Research Centre in Giza (Egypt),
• Palacký University of Olomouc (Czech Republic),
• Phillips University of Marburg (Germany),
• Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco (Portugal)
• Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo (Portugal),
• South East European University (North Macedonia),
• University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti–Pescara and University of Trento (Italy),
• University of Helsinki (Finland),
• University of Liechtenstein (Liechtenstein),
• University of Saarland (Germany),
• University of Szczecin (Poland)
• University of Warsaw (Poland),
• University of Technology of Belfort–Montbéliard (France),
• University of Valladolid (Spain)
• Pontifical University Comillas in Madrid (Spain),
• Vocational Training Centre for Audiovisual Technologies Vigo (Spain),
• School of Arts and Design “Antonio Faílde” (Spain)
• Higher School for Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage of Galicia – CARTES consortium (Spain),
• University of Zadar (Croatia)
• University of Zagreb (Croatia),
• Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania),
• West University of Timișoara (Romania).

The International Staff Training Week was formally opened at the Rectorate of the University of Sarajevo, where the participants were welcomed by the Vice-Rector for International Relations, Prof. Dr. Kemal Durić. The European university alliance EUPeace was presented to the participants, which promotes peace, justice, and inclusive societies. The alliance’s activities were introduced by the academic coordinator Prof. Dr. Kemal Durić, while work package activities were presented in a panel discussion by Prof. Dr. Sarina Bakić, Prof. Dr. Mirzana Pašić-Kodrić, Dr. Jasna Bošnjović, Dr. Mariana Hadžijusufović, and Prof. Dr. Dženana Husremović.

The participants were also introduced to the history of the University of Sarajevo, followed by an organized visit to the Faculty of Islamic Studies and the Catholic Faculty of Theology.

On the second day, participants visited the University “Džemal Bijedić” in Mostar, where the International Day of the university was held. The program included a presentation of the university by coordinator Mirsada Behram, a Bosnian language and culture workshop, a screening of the film “Religion under the Open Sky – Mostar through the Prism of Togetherness,” and a lecture by Prof. Dr. Veldin Ovčina.

The third day focused on advanced technologies – a workshop on artificial intelligence and its application in education and research was held at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Sarajevo, prepared and led by Prof. Dr. Mirza Pašić. Prof. Pašić also presented various EU-funded international projects in which the Faculty is currently participating:

• DELTA – Advancing Data Literacy and Innovation in the Western Balkans (Erasmus+ CBHE project, 2024–2027)
• TAI – Teaching Artificial Intelligence (Erasmus+ KA220-HED project, 2024–2027)
• DSGN COM – DL – Design of Computational Mechanics and Deep Learning Joint Master Programme (Erasmus Design Measures – EMDM, 2023–2025)

After the lecture, participants toured the laboratories of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, guided by Prof. Dr. Maida Čohodar Husić, Vice-Dean for Research Prof. Dr. Amra Hasečić, Prof. Dr. Halima Hadžiahmetović, Assist. Prof. Dr. Mirela Alispahić, Prof. Dr. Đerzija Begić-Hajdarević, and Prof. Dr. Adis Muminović. The participants had the opportunity to visit and learn about work in the laboratories for 3D printing, robotics and automation, lean laboratory, welding laboratory, and CNC laboratory, as well as to see the use of solar panels installed on the roof of the Faculty.

Later in the day, best practices in the implementation of Blended Intensive Programmes (BIP) were presented, with case examples shared by colleagues from West University of Timișoara (Romania), Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece), and the University of Liechtenstein.

The fourth day was marked by a practical workshop titled “Erasmus Gone Wrong”, held at Europe House, focusing on the challenges in Erasmus+ mobility management, including case studies and collective solution-finding. The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Adnan Rahimić and Dr. Jasna Bošnjović. Through active participation of attendees from both the Sarajevo and Mostar staff weeks, the main challenges in Erasmus+ implementation were identified and addressed through examples of good practice. Additionally, a joint initiative was launched to develop a model of an “ideal” Erasmus mobility, serving as a benchmark for all universities.

The final day was dedicated to the organization of student traineeships and their importance within the Erasmus+ program. Best practices were shared by colleagues from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece) and the Professional Development Centre in Valle de Elda (Alicante, Spain).

The program concluded with the awarding of certificates and a joint reflection on the outcomes achieved.

The 13th International Staff Training Week proved to be an excellent opportunity for strengthening international partnerships, exchanging experiences, and developing new ideas that will contribute to the continued internationalization of the University of Sarajevo.

1-5 July 2024

The International Relations Office of the University of Sarajevo organised the 11th International Staff Training Week from 1 to 5 July 2024, hosting 43 participants from 24 higher education institutions across 14 European countries. The event aimed to foster international networking, strengthen Erasmus+ cooperation, and enhance the mobility of students and staff for professional development and intercultural exchange.

Participants:

• Alexandru Ioan Cuza University in Iasi, Romania
• Budapest Metropolitan University, Hungary
• Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany
• Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse (Toulouse INP), France
• Isparta University of Applied Sciences, Turkey
• Middle East Technical University, Turkey
• Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Poland
• Ondokuz Mayis University, Turkey
• Philipps University of Marburg, Germany
• Saarland University, Germany
• Polytechnic University of Santarém, Portugal
• Sofia University of St. Kliment Ohridski, Bulgaria
• University of Beaux-Arts de Paris, France
• University of Barcelona, ​​Spain
• University of Bologna, Italy
• University of Liechtenstein, Liechtenstein
• University of Limoges, France
• University of Maribor, Slovenia
• University of Paris Nanterre, France
• University of South Bohemia, Czech Republic
• University of Warsaw, Poland
• University of West Bohemia, Czech Republic
• University of Paris 8, France
• Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania

The opening day featured a welcome by Prof. Dr. Enita Nakaš, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, and a presentation by Mr. Adnan Rahimić, Senior Expert Associate, highlighting UNSA’s internationalisation strategy and partnerships, followed by a cultural tour of Sarajevo.

The second day included two key sessions: one on the European University Alliance EUPeace, presented by Prof. Nakaš, and a dynamic “Speed Dating” session where all participating universities introduced their institutions and mobility opportunities. Representatives of EUPeace member universities—Philipps University of Marburg, University of West Bohemia, and University of Limoges—also joined, fostering alliance dialogue and cooperation.

On the third day, the session “Erasmus Gone Wrong” was held at Europe House, led by Mr. Adnan Rahimić and Dr. Jasna Bošnjović, addressing key challenges in Erasmus+ implementation and sharing best practices. Topics included transparency in selection, administrative barriers, visa and housing issues, intercultural adaptation, and post-mobility recognition.

The fourth day featured three sessions: Mental Health and Communication by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gorana Sulejmanpašić, focusing on student well-being; a workshop on encouraging non-teaching staff to join mobilities; and a certificate ceremony for participants.

The final day included a study visit to Mostar, hosted by the University “Džemal Bijedić”, where participants explored student projects, visited Fortica Hill and the Old Bridge, and experienced Herzegovina’s culture and hospitality.

The 11th Staff Training Week once again showcased Sarajevo as an open, collaborative, and inspiring academic hub, reinforcing the University of Sarajevo’s role as a leading regional partner in international cooperation.

23-27 October 2023

The 10th International Staff Training Week of the University of Sarajevo took place from 23 to 27 October 2023, gathering international teaching and administrative staff from partner universities across Europe.

The first day was hosted at the Rectorate and opened by Prof. Dr. Enita Nakaš, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, followed by a presentation on the University’s internationalisation activities by Mr. Adnan Rahimić, Senior Expert Associate at the International Relations Office. The day concluded with a cultural and historical tour of Sarajevo, allowing participants to experience the city’s diverse heritage.

On the second day, held at the School of Economics and Business, a session titled “Erasmus Gone Wrong” explored the main challenges faced by Erasmus coordinators, based on research conducted among 100 European institutions. The session, led by Mr. Adnan Rahimić and Dr. Jasna Bošnjović, fostered open discussion and exchange of experiences among participants, leading to the creation of a network of Erasmus experts.

The third day focused on promoting international partnerships and academic cooperation through the 13th Scholarship Fair, organised by the International Relations Office in collaboration with the French Embassy, Campus France, and the French Institute, with the support of the Ministry of Science, Higher Education and Youth of Sarajevo Canton. The Fair gathered 55 exhibitors from 18 countries and highlighted opportunities for studying and professional development abroad, with France as the guest country.

The fourth day, held at the Rectorate, featured a workshop on achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the internationalisation of higher education, led by Prof. Dr. Enita Nakaš. Participants analysed the impact of internationalisation on education quality, equality, inclusion, and intercultural understanding, concluding that international cooperation plays a vital role in promoting global connectivity and mutual understanding among universities and societies.

Through a combination of professional workshops, networking, and cultural activities, the 10th International Staff Training Week once again demonstrated the University of Sarajevo’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration and promoting Sarajevo as a dynamic academic and cultural centre.

3-7 July 2023

In order to promote the Erasmus programme and strengthen the networking of the University of Sarajevo with higher education institutions across Europe, the International Relations Office of the University of Sarajevo organised the Ninth International Staff Training Week for foreign teaching and non-teaching staff, held from 3 to 7 July 2023.

On this occasion, the University of Sarajevo hosted 70 participants representing 39 higher education institutions from 13 countries — Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, and Turkey.

Following the example of many European universities, the University of Sarajevo organised activities aimed at better promoting mobility programmes such as Erasmus+, and at increasing the number of international incoming and outgoing mobilities of students, teaching/research and non-teaching staff, with the goal of fostering professional development, academic advancement, and the acquisition of international experience.

The topics of this year’s Staff Week focused on the problems and challenges that Erasmus coordinators face during the implementation of international mobilities. In this way, a common platform and space were created for exchanging opinions and sharing best practices in overcoming obstacles in international incoming and outgoing mobility.

On Monday, 3 July 2023, the Ninth International Staff Training Week was opened by Prof. Dr. Enita Nakaš, Vice-Rector for International Relations, followed by a presentation on the work of the International Relations Office and the University of Sarajevo, with a particular focus on internationalisation, delivered by Mr. Adnan Rahimić, Senior Expert Associate at the International Relations Office of the University of Sarajevo. The first day was also dedicated to presenting the host country and city – Bosnia and Herzegovina and Sarajevo. A city tour was organised for the participants, showcasing different historical periods (Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, Yugoslav, and modern), prepared and guided by professors from the Faculty of Architecture of the University of Sarajevo: Prof. Dr. Aida Idrizbegović-Zgonić, Assist. Prof. Dr. Senka Ibrišimbegović, and Assist. Prof. Dr. Lejla Kreševljaković.

Throughout the five-day programme, the International Relations Office of the University of Sarajevo enabled participation in various presentations, seminars, and workshops, as well as networking among partners and the exchange of good practices and experiences. In addition, the event served as an excellent opportunity to promote Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina and to present the University of Sarajevo as a serious and potential partner for many international projects.

The second day of the Ninth International Staff Week was dedicated to the presentation of our guests — international partners — through innovative presentations about best practices, experiences, and projects related to the internationalisation of their institutions. The host of the second day was the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Sarajevo. The meeting was opened by Prof. Dr. Amina Valjevac, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, and Ms. Edina Kovačević, Coordinator for International Cooperation, who presented the history and work of the Faculty. After the presentation, participants visited the laboratories of the Faculty of Medicine, where the Anatomy Museum attracted the most attention. The guests had the opportunity to learn about various parts of the human body, possible diseases, as well as the Faculty’s genetic research and scientific achievements. Following the tour of laboratories and museums, representatives of all 39 higher education institutions took the opportunity to give short (three-minute) interactive presentations or videos introducing their institution, city, and country, educational offer, Erasmus+ statistics, and unique aspects that could attract students and staff to spend one or two semesters at their institution for academic study or training.

This day also provided an opportunity for teaching/research, artistic, and administrative staff of the University of Sarajevo to connect with colleagues from international institutions and to explore possibilities for future collaborations through projects and international mobilities.

The third day of the Ninth Staff Week took place at the School of Economics and Business of the University of Sarajevo. After the welcome address by Prof. Dr. Jasmina Selimović, Dean of the Faculty, and a presentation on the Faculty’s achievements by Assist. Prof. Dr. Hatidža Jahić, a session titled “Erasmus Gone Wrong” was opened. This session, presented by Mr. Adnan Rahimić, Senior Expert Associate for International Relations, focused on the challenges and problems faced by Erasmus coordinators during the implementation of the Erasmus programme.

Based on a survey conducted by the International Relations Office of UNSA among 100 institutions across Europe, several of the most common challenges were identified, including: the (non-)publication of calls and transparency of selection processes; differences in nomination and administrative procedures; difficulties with implementing “Erasmus Without Paper”; visa and accommodation issues for students; language barriers; drafting learning agreements; intercultural challenges and cultural shocks students face upon arrival in a new country; differing legal interpretations (EU vs. non-EU); tuition fees and inflation; (non-)recognition of achieved results for students and staff; the impact of global events on mobility (COVID-19, wars, etc.), and other daily challenges. Participants were invited to comment, share opinions, or recount their experiences related to these issues.

This was an ideal opportunity to exchange experiences and realise that similar challenges are shared across Europe, regardless of whether an institution is located within or outside the EU. Through this process, a network of experts was established, facilitating the exchange of information and best practices that will contribute to the improvement and adaptation of the Erasmus+ programme to global changes — thereby better addressing the academic and professional needs of students and staff, the final beneficiaries of this programme.

On the fourth day of the Staff Week, participants attended a lecture by Dr. Edna Supur, Senior Teaching Assistant at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Sarajevo, titled “Health Aspects of Students’ Mental Well-being.” Dr. Supur emphasised that mental health is a key component of overall student well-being and that addressing students’ mental health needs is essential. The pressures and challenges students face can have a significant impact on their mental well-being. The academic environment is often highly demanding, with expectations for high performance and achievement, which can lead to stress and anxiety affecting mental health. Higher education institutions should therefore work to create a supportive atmosphere that prioritises both academic success and mental well-being. After the presentation, a discussion was opened, allowing participants to share their experiences and practices on mental health support at their home institutions.

At the end of the session, participants received certificates of successful participation and active engagement during the Ninth International Staff Training Week.

On the fifth day, participants had the opportunity to choose between two extracurricular activities.

A group of 38 participants visited Mostar, where they took part in the International Day of the Džemal Bijedić University of Mostar. After the welcome address by Prof. Dr. Rijad Novaković, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, and a presentation by Ms. Mirsada Behram, Head of the International Cooperation Office, guests were introduced to the experiences of students who had participated in Erasmus mobilities, as well as student projects in economics and information technology (such as the marketing campaign “I Don’t Want to Be Just a Number on the Bureau” and the success of the Mimea team, finalists in the 2023 Imagine Cup World Finals for creating a digital panel for people diagnosed with dementia). After an engaging International Day, participants enjoyed a guided walking tour of the city, learning about the cultural and historical heritage of Mostar and Herzegovina.

The second group of participants chose the Stay Active and Refreshed tour. Although originally designed as a summer escape from the heat, the tour took place despite the cloudy weather and included a cable car ride, a walk on Mount Trebević, a visit to the Olympic bobsleigh track, and a forest and mountain trail hike. Surrounded by fresh mountain air just 11 minutes from the city centre, the group shared positive experiences and enjoyed informal networking in a relaxing natural environment.

These activities concluded the Ninth International Staff Training Week, which, according to participants’ feedback, once again proved successful in presenting the University of Sarajevo, offering a well-designed five-day programme with carefully chosen topics, showcasing the country and its culture, and fostering connections and partnerships that will lead to future projects and collaborations.

24-28 October 2022

In order to promote the Erasmus programme and strengthen the networking of the University of Sarajevo with higher education institutions across Europe, the Department for International Cooperation of the University of Sarajevo organised the Eighth International Staff Training Week for foreign teaching and non-teaching staff, held from 24 to 28 October 2022.

On this occasion, the University of Sarajevo hosted representatives from 12 higher education institutions, including:

• Palacký University of Olomouc, Czech Republic
• University of Artois, France
• Catholic University of Lille, France
• University of Poitiers, France
• Philipps University of Marburg, Germany
• Saarland University, Germany
• Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Italy
• Polytechnic Institute of Beja, Portugal
• Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași, Romania
• University of Gothenburg, Sweden
• Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University, Turkey
• University of Glasgow, United Kingdom

Following the example of many European universities, the University of Sarajevo organised a series of activities aimed at promoting mobility programmes such as Erasmus+, and at increasing both incoming and outgoing international mobility of students, teaching/research, and non-teaching staff. The goal was to support professional development, academic advancement, and the acquisition of international experience.

The main topics of this year’s Staff Week addressed the challenges and obstacles that Erasmus coordinators face during the implementation of international mobility programmes. The event created a platform for discussion and exchange of opinions, experiences, and best practices on overcoming difficulties related to incoming and outgoing mobilities.

The first day (24 October) was dedicated to introducing the host country and city — Bosnia and Herzegovina and Sarajevo — as well as to presenting the University of Sarajevo, the work of the International Relations Office, and UNSA’s internationalisation programme. Afterwards, participants took part in a special UNSA cultural and educational tour, visiting several members of the University.

The tour began at the Academy of Music, where guests were welcomed by Vice Dean for International Cooperation, Prof. Dr. Amila Ramović, who presented the history of the institution and its significant role during the war, when concerts were held even under siege, preserving the spirit of the city and its people.

The visit then continued to the Faculty of Catholic Theology, where Prof. Josip Knežević, Vice Dean for Science, and Prof. Oliver Jurišić, Vice Dean for Teaching, introduced guests to the long-standing tradition of Catholic theology in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Participants also visited the Church of St. Cyril and Methodius and the Faculty Library, where M.Sc. Irena Pejić, Senior Librarian, presented the Faculty’s rich collection.

The final stop of the tour was the Faculty of Islamic Sciences, where guests were welcomed by Prof. Dr. Aid Smajić, Vice Dean for International Cooperation. The visitors were greeted with Bosnian roses and sweets, and, on the occasion of the celebration of the month of Mevlud, enjoyed a performance of ilahi by the Faculty choir. Prof. Smajić also gave a lecture about the Faculty, its history, and the place of Islam in Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The visit concluded with traditional Bosnian coffee, where guests experienced the unique symbiosis of cultures, religions, and architecture that the University of Sarajevo proudly represents.

Throughout the five-day programme, the International Relations Office facilitated participation in various presentations, seminars, and workshops, as well as networking among partners and the exchange of good practices and experiences. In addition, the event served as an excellent opportunity to promote Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina and to present the University of Sarajevo as a reliable and attractive partner for numerous international projects.

16-20 May 2022

The Seventh International Staff Training Week for International Teaching and Non-Teaching Staff was held at the University of Sarajevo from May 16 to 20, 2022, organized by the International Relations Office of the University of Sarajevo. It is a five-day event that includes seminars, workshops, presentations, the active participation of international partners in presenting their institutions, the study offers and work on implementing the Erasmus + program. This week was accompanied by social and cultural activities. The Staff Training Week was an opportunity to present and network partners, academics, students and officials of the International Relations Office, promote Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina and present the University of Sarajevo as a potential partner for many international projects.

On that occasion, the Rectorate of the University of Sarajevo hosted representatives of 27 higher education institutions coming from all over Europe:

• Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium
• University of Zadar, Croatia
• Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic
• Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic
• Palacky University of Olomouc, Czech Republic
• Catholic University of Lille, France
• University of Poitiers, France
• Friedrich Alexander Erlangen-Nuremberg University, Germany
• Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany
• University of Saarland, Germany
• University of Constanta, Germany
• Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania
• Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
• University of Łód,, Poland
• Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland
• New University of Lisbon, Portugal
• Castelo Branco Polytechnic Institute, Portugal
• Viseu Polytechnic Institute, Portugal
• University of Evora, Portugal
• Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Romania
• University of Arts Belgrade, Serbia
• University of Barcelona, ​​Spain
• University of Seville, Spain
• University of the Balearic Islands, Spain
• University of Valladolid, Spain
• University of Granada, Spain
• Kütahya Dumlupınar University, Turkey

Following the example of many European universities, the University of Sarajevo organizes activities to promote mobility programs such as Erasmus + and increase international incoming and outgoing mobility of students, teaching / non-teaching and non-teaching staff for professional development and academic advancement.

On Monday, May 16, the first day was held dedicated to the presentation of the University of Sarajevo, the International Relations Office and the internationalization program. Then a tourist tour was organized where our guests were introduced to the city of Sarajevo and its richness in diversity.

The second day of the 7th International Staff Week was dedicated to the presentation of our guests – foreign partners. All 27 higher education institutions took the opportunity to present their institution, city and country of origin, educational offer, Erasmus statistics and unique information that may interest students and staff to spend one to two semesters for academic education and professional development. Also, this was an opportunity for the teaching / scientific, artistic and non-teaching staff of the University of Sarajevo to connect with colleagues from foreign institutions and agree on potential cooperation through projects and international mobility.

Participants of the Seventh International Staff Training Week and representatives of 27 higher education institutions visited Mostar on the third day of Staff Week, together with representatives of the International Relations Office of the University of Sarajevo. During their stay in Mostar, a visit was organized to the “Džemal Bijedić” University in Mostar, where the guests were welcomed by the Office for International Cooperation representatives. On that occasion, the “Džemal Bijedić” University was presented, and the university students shared their experiences during the realized mobilities. The trip to Mostar was organized by train, and the guests expressed their enthusiasm for the journey, which CNN declared one of the ten most beautiful train trips in Europe.

On the fourth day of the Seventh International Training Week, representatives of 27 higher education institutions visited the Olympic Museum in Sarajevo within this program, where in addition to visiting the museum’s permanent exhibition, they had the opportunity to listen to a lecture by prof. dr. Slavenko Likić and mr. sci. Slobodan Klačar from the Faculty of Sports and Physical Education UNSA on the topic “Erasmus as a new Olympics” which referred to the 14th Olympic Games in Sarajevo and the Olympics and Erasmus as international links for connecting people and cooperation between institutions.

After visiting the museum, the participants visited two faculties of the University of Sarajevo: the Catholic Faculty of Theology and the Faculty of Islamic Sciences. They enjoyed the beautiful interiors, presentation of study programs, and introduction to religious life in Sarajevo. Two presentations were held at the Faculty of Islamic Sciences: “How UNSA promotes Erasmus and affects the increase in the number of outgoing and outgoing students” (presented by Adnan Rahimić, MSc on behalf of the Service for International Cooperation), and “Organization of Internationalization for International Students” presented by professors from the Faculty of Economics, University of Barcelona.

The last day was left for summarizing the presented information, conclusions and impressions. Participants were awarded certificates for successful participation in the Seventh International Staff Training Week.

Given that the Seventh International Training Week participants come from 27 institutions across Europe, this five-day event had a broader impact. It enabled universally accepted human rights to be promoted through international cooperation and contributed to overcoming culturally defined borders on a global scale.

11-15 October 2021

• Agenda

The sixth “International Staff Training Week” was held at the University of Sarajevo from 11 to 15 October 2021. It is a five-day event that included seminars, workshops, presentations, but also the active participation of international partners in presenting their institutions, study offers, as well as work on the implementation of the Erasmus+ program. This week was accompanied by social and cultural activities. The Staff Training Week was also an opportunity to present and network partners, academics, students and officials of the IRO.

Participants of the Sixth International Staff Training Week came from the following institutions:

• University of Applied Sciences Burgenland (Austria),
• Catholic University of Lille (France),
• Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania),
• Evora University (Portugal),
• Portalegre Polytechnic Institute (Portugal),
• University Santiago de Compostela (Spain),
• Catholic University of Valencia (Spain).

On the first day, the focus was on presenting the University of Sarajevo – its history, founding, organization and members, as well as the offer of study programs. After that, our guests toured the central part of Sarajevo through an organized tour and learned more about our city.

The second day was dedicated to the presentation of our partners, i.e. the presentation of the institutions they come from, followed by networking with staff from the University of Sarajevo to meet, present ideas and potential project proposals to start joint applications for various funds. In the evening, a dinner was organized for our guests in order to have a more relaxed conversation and socialize.

On the third day, the Department for International Cooperation, University of Sarajevo presented its work and implementation of Erasmus+ KA107 activities – international credit mobility. Through the presentation of activities, statistical data, and daily activities related to international mobility, our guests were able to learn more about the work of the Service, as well as the challenges it faces. There was also a discussion about the possibilities of advancing and improving the offer, especially about caring for foreign students, and a better offer of extracurricular activities. It was the turn of the French Institute in BiH – our partners in the organization of this week of training. This institute presented the successful cooperation with the University of Sarajevo, as well as the long-term connection of our university (and other higher education institutions in BiH) with higher education institutions from France. After the lecture, a visit to some of the most beautiful buildings of the University of Sarajevo was organized, which with their beauty and chronology of creation and duration left not only foreign but also local staff speechless.

On the fourth day, a trip to Mostar was organized for the participants of the International Staff Training Week, where they participated in the international day organized by Džemal Bijedić University of Mostar with the aim of presenting the Erasmus+ program to local and foreign staff and students. In addition to presenting the Office for International Cooperation, Džemal Bijedić University of Mostar, and the experiences of incoming and outgoing students, the International Cooperation Department, University of Sarajevo also presented its activities, which led to interest in importing foreign students from these two cities and organizing joint activities. A visit to the old town was also unavoidable, as well as a guide by a professional guide to the Old Bridge.

The last day was left for summarizing the presented information, conclusions and impressions. Participants were given certificates for successful participation in the sixth International Staff Training Week