The University of Sarajevo welcomed 21 international participants from eight countries for five days of professional exchange, networking, and cultural discovery. A dedicated EUPeace booth at the Scholarship Fair connected students, staff, and international partners with opportunities across the Alliance.
From 5 to 9 October 2026, the University of Sarajevo hosted its 16th International Staff Training Week. Organised by the International Relations Office, the programme welcomed 21 international participants from Czechia, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Poland, and Spain. It combined professional workshops, exchanges of experience, and opportunities to explore Bosnia and Herzegovina’s cultural and historical heritage.
The week opened with a welcome programme at the University Rectorate, introducing participants to the University’s history, traditions, and internationalisation activities. An introductory session explored the language, culture, and identity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Participant presentations and the interactive ‘Human Bingo’ activity encouraged colleagues from different institutions to get to know one another, followed by a guided walking tour of Sarajevo.
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Exchanging approaches to internationalisation
The second day focused on internationalisation at home. Krisztina Milovszky from Budapest Metropolitan University led the workshop ‘Beyond Mobility – Building International Community through Thematic Staff Weeks and Student Engagement’. Participants exchanged ideas on strengthening the international dimension of university life through thematic training weeks and student involvement, extending its reach beyond physical mobility.
Dr Samir Forić and Professor Sarina Bakić from the University of Sarajevo’s Faculty of Political Sciences then delivered the session ‘Back to the Future: Enhancing Futures Literacy through Interactive MOOCs in the Western Balkans’. The session explored how interactive massive open online courses (MOOCs) can develop the ability to understand and reflect on possible futures.
The programme also included a visit to the Tunnel of Hope, offering participants insight into Sarajevo’s history and the experiences of its residents during the siege.
Discovering EUPeace at the Scholarship Fair
A highlight of the week was participation in the 16th University of Sarajevo Scholarship Fair – UNSA Study Expo, held on 7 October 2026 at the Rectorate. Participants presented their institutions and spoke directly with students and staff about scholarships, study programmes, international mobility, and professional development.
The fair brought together representatives of embassies, universities, foundations, and international organisations, with some partners also available for online consultations. With Erasmus+ mobility calls open for the 2026/2027 academic year, these meetings provided practical information about applications and stays at partner institutions.
A dedicated EUPeace booth provided a space for students, staff, and international visitors to discover the Alliance and exchange information about its activities. Visitors could learn about opportunities for mobility, joint courses and study activities, seasonal schools, research cooperation, conferences, and professional training. Face-to-face conversations enabled them to ask questions, discuss their interests, and explore ways to become involved.
The booth also introduced EUPeace to international colleagues attending the Staff Training Week, connecting the Alliance with the programme’s wider exchange of experiences in international higher education. Its presence highlighted EUPeace’s commitment to connecting universities with society, including civil society organisations, institutions, and local communities, through cooperation on peace, justice, and inclusive societies.
Cultural discovery and practical mobility challenges
The fourth day offered opportunities to discover Herzegovina’s cultural and natural landmarks through an optional, self-funded excursion to Konjic, Mostar, Blagaj, Počitelj, and the Kravice Waterfalls. For participants remaining in Sarajevo, the programme provided the possibility of individual meetings with relevant offices and representatives of the University’s member institutions, according to their professional interests.
The final day focused on the challenges Erasmus+ coordinators face when implementing International Credit Mobility. Through practical examples and shared experiences, participants discussed difficulties arising at different stages of mobility and possible solutions to improve support for students and staff, as well as cooperation between partner institutions. The programme concluded with the awarding of certificates and a farewell gathering.
Participants in the October 2026 programme join the University of Sarajevo’s Staff Week alumni community, presented during the welcome session as a network of 551 participants. The continued organisation of international staff training weeks supports lasting professional connections, the exchange of good practices, and cooperation with international partners. EUPeace’s presence at the Scholarship Fair complemented these efforts by making the Alliance’s opportunities more accessible through direct conversations with the university community.
