University of Sarajevo hosts the 8th Rectors' Forum of Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans

(Patria) - The University of Sarajevo is hosting the 8th Rectors' Forum of Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans on May 30 and 31.

This regional cooperation began several years ago, and over the past years, the universities of Rijeka, Belgrade, and Ljubljana have worked together to ensure the successful operation of the Rectors' Forum of Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans as a key network for regional higher education. The goal of the Rectors' Forum of Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans is to strengthen cooperation between universities in Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans in the fields of education, research, and innovation.

54 representatives from 21 institutions, including 8 rectors and 12 vice-rectors, are participating in the 8th Rectors' Forum of Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans.

Words of welcome were extended by Prof. Dr. Rifat Škrijelj, Rector of the University of Sarajevo, emphasizing that as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, it is imperative that we foster greater collaboration. He also stated: “By sharing our experiences, resources, and best practices, we can build a stronger, more resilient higher education ecosystem that benefits all our students and scholars. I firmly believe in the power of regional cooperation and university autonomy. Our universities have the potential to steer our countries towards a more positive and progressive direction. This belief has guided my efforts throughout my tenure as rector and remains the cornerstone of my vision for the future.” Recalling that this year marks the final year of his second and final term as Rector of the University of Sarajevo, he noted, “Reflecting on these years, I am filled with a sense of pride for what we have accomplished together and optimism for what lies ahead. I have witnessed firsthand the exceptional potential of our collective efforts and am confident that the Forum will continue to thrive and make significant contributions to the region.”

The first day of the Rectors' Forum of Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans focused on the future of universities and the activities of the Rectors' Forum and working groups. Anna-Lena Claeys-Kulik and Thomas Ekman Jørgensen, authors of two influential documents from the European University Association (EUA) published earlier this year, introduced the discussion on the future of universities. The documents are the result of the UniFE project, one of the most influential and important initiatives of the European University Association. The innovative approach of the report lies in describing four possible scenarios for our continent and analyzing the impact of these scenarios on our sector, particularly on transnational university cooperation.

The presentation was followed by debates and reflections from university leaders, including Prof. Dr. Biljana Angelova, Rector of Ss. Cyril and Methodius University of Skopje, Prof. Dr. Enita Nakaš, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation at the University of Sarajevo, Prof. Dr. Igor Nedelkovski, Rector of the University of Bitola, and Prof. Dr. Gregor Majdič, Rector of the University of Ljubljana, who discussed the potentials and different future perspectives of higher education, research, and innovation across Europe, with a special focus on Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans. The panel discussion was moderated by Prof. Snježana Prijić-Samaržija, Rector of the University of Rijeka and Chair of the Rectors' Forum of Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans.

Following the presentation of the Rectors' Forum of Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans and the activities of the working groups, participants discussed the use of research infrastructure under the leadership of Siniša Marčić from the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC). It was also decided to develop a logo and corporate identity for the Rectors' Forum of Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans, and that new membership initiatives will be discussed and decided upon at the next General Assembly in Bitola in September.

Several universities in the region have committed to joining and collaborating with the network of Centers for Advanced Studies (CAS) and have signed the Agreement on the Regional CAS Network: University of Rijeka, University of Belgrade, University of Montenegro, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University of Skopje, University of Sarajevo, University of Pristina "Hasan Prishtina", University of Tirana, and University of Ljubljana. The Centre for Advanced Studies of Southeast Europe (CAS SEE) is a regional center for postdoctoral research led by the University of Rijeka.

Members of the Rectors' Forum of Southeast Europe and the Western Balkans also collaborate on various projects and activities. The University of Arts in Belgrade, the University of Kragujevac, and Alma Mater Europaea signed Memoranda of Understanding with the University of Sarajevo during the event to promote and deepen further cooperation.