HERE Seminar “Ahead of the Ministerial Conference in Tirana 2024: Implications and points of interest for the higher education systems of partner countries in the EU neighborhood”

The HERE seminar “Ahead of the Ministerial Conference in Tirana 2024: Implications and points of interest for the higher education systems of partner countries in the EU's neighborhood” is being held at the University of Sarajevo on 7 and 8 November. The seminar was organized by the SPHERE initiative and brought together higher education experts, representatives of national ministries, management of higher education institutions and student representatives from different countries.

The seminar was opened by Prof. Dr. Enita Nakaš, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, UNSA together with Xavier Flament, project manager from EC/EACEA, and Michael Gaebel, leader of the SPHERE team.

Vice-Rector Prof. Dr Nakaš underlined that in today's environment it is imperative to emphasize the importance of education, and that education should precede politics.

“The way to an ideal world is education. Higher education is the key,” stressed Vice-Rector Nakaš, and emphasized that all components of our educational institutions must be directed towards the principles of inclusion, diversity and fostering values such as empathy, kindness and skills needed to build peace.

“Education is the entrance to a more peaceful and just world. Achieving this vision requires collective effort, unity and an unwavering commitment to flexible, inclusive and empathetic education. As we reflect on the transformative potential of education, let us recognize the role of initiatives such as the Ministerial Conference in Tirana in advancing cooperation at a broader level. The journey towards a harmonious world begins with education and continues with collective action and cross-border partnerships that transcend political boundaries. After all, education is a human right,” Vice-Rector Nakaš stated.

The first day of the seminar was dedicated to panel discussions and workshops on the current state of the Bologna Process, perspectives and engagement of students, Greening in higher education. Key issues such as the implementation of the three-cycle tertiary education system, recognition of study periods and diplomas in accordance with the Lisbon Convention were discussed. on the recognition of diplomas and the quality of education in the European area of higher education.

This seminar provided an important platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences, and contributed to the understanding of current challenges and future directions in European higher education ahead of the Ministerial Conference in Tirana in 2024.