Ceremonial Senate Session and Promotion of Ten University of Sarajevo Professors Emeritus

THE 75TH UNIVERSITY OF SARAJEVO’S ANNIVERSARY - A TRADITION OF KNOWLEDGE AND SUCCESS
The University of Sarajevo is celebrating its significant jubilee – the 75th anniversary - through a series of festive events called Festive December Days, with which we acknowledge our tradition, achievements and vision of the future.
This year’s central celebration is the University of Sarajevo Senate Ceremonial Session and the professor emeritus promotion, which took place at the National Theater in Sarajevo on 4 December 2024.
This event brought together prominent faculty members, representatives of government and social life, as well as students, partners and friends of the University.
Prof. Dr. Tarik Zaimović, University of Sarajevo Rector, in a speech marking the 75th anniversary, recalled the rich tradition of higher education in Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing that the foundations of education were laid in the 16th century. He particularly emphasized the key role of the University in the preservation and development of Bosnian society, especially during the most difficult periods, such as the war, when the University was a symbol of resilience and commitment to education.
“From its establishment until the end of the nineties, the University of Sarajevo established itself not only as the origin of all academic disciplines, but also as a center of scientific research and artistic work, and a place for the exchange of new ideas, innovations and key social advances not only in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Rector Zaimović.
He spoke about past achievements in science, art and research, emphasizing the importance of internationalization, which enables students and teachers to have a greater presence on the global academic scene. Rector Zaimović singled out strategic projects, such as the construction of a new university library and the development of the University of Sarajevo Campus, as well as the modernization of existing resources, which will contribute to the improvement of teaching and research work.
“Through a comprehensive reorganization in the past years, and a clear determination to invest in scientific and artistic infrastructure - but perhaps more importantly, in the development of our internal capacities - the University of Sarajevo has made strong strides towards a modern European university, following the transformation of universities in the region, but also in the European Union countries,” emphasized Rector Zaimović.
In his address, he also pointed to the need to preserve institutional autonomy as the foundation of academic freedom, and further work on the global recognition of the University. He said that the future of the University is firmly connected with the development of the entire country, emphasizing education and science as key factors of social progress.
“Taking everything into account, we can certainly be proud of the past 75 years, and we must be ready for the challenges of the future,” Rector Zaimović said, and added that last year, for the first time in its 75 years, the University of Sarajevo witnessed challenging all foundational acts and all key bodies of the University at the same time.
“However, we must not forget and from this point, today, I must emphasize that the role of the academic and scientific community is above all specific. That the strength of the people comes precisely and only through knowledge and science - that our education makes us great”, emphasized Rector Zaimović, and underlined that for the success of society it is crucial to create inclusive and not privileged societies, and that only with strong public universities can equality be ensured. in access and opportunities.
“The ramparts that protect this free space of academic, scientific and artistic activity are contained in the strength of institutional autonomy - in the autonomy and strength of our university bodies. In our strength to ensure the free action of all of us as a unique academic community. The University of Sarajevo and its bodies must remain independent and make decisions related to the work and activities of the University without interference. All of us as an academic community must persevere in this,” said Rector Zaimović, and with congratulations on the occasion of the University's 75th birthday, he thanked all members of the academic community of the University of Sarajevo for everything they do for our institution every day. He also referred to the student community, its representatives and their contribution, which in the past period was aimed at improving the University and overcoming all challenges.
Prof. Dr. Denis Zvizdić, Chairman of the House of Representatives of the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the occasion of the 75th UNSA anniversary, reminded that the University of Sarajevo, since its foundation, was not only an educational institution but also a place where the key ideas that shaped our country were formed . Professors, researchers and students of the University of Sarajevo were and remain the driving force behind the development of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Generations of professors and employees of the University of Sarajevo have left an indelible mark on the field of education and research, and not only in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also in a wider regional and international context.
“Today in the 21st century in the developed world there is a consensus on the importance of education and science as crucial factors for the success of every individual, institution or economy. That is why high-quality higher education, which will meet the demands of the times, is a prerequisite for successful and sustainable development and growth”, stated the chairman, Prof. Dr. Zvizdić, and added: “As the holder of a responsible political function, I believe that the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina is inextricably linked with the future of our educational system, and the University of Sarajevo, with its tradition and vision, will continue to play a key role in building a society that must be based on knowledge, innovation and values such as tolerance, inclusiveness and mutual respect. For this reason, I give special recognition to all those who shaped the University of Sarajevo with their work and vision, as well as the respected rector Prof. Dr. Tarik Zaimović, who, together with his team, faces numerous challenges on the way to the improvement and construction of a modern University that will successfully answer the numerous questions that the modern world poses to all higher education institutions”.
Chairman Prof. Dr. Zvizdić congratulated the University of Sarajevo, all its employees and students, with the wish that the University of Sarajevo continue to be a strong symbol of intellectual development, scientific excellence and social progress.
“The University of Sarajevo is not only an educational institution, it is our common pride and responsibility, with which the issue of increasing the budget for education, investing in scientific infrastructure and strengthening international recognition is always connected. The University of Sarajevo remains the foundation of education, science and culture in our city and country, and the Canton of Sarajevo will always be your partner and ally in this mission,” said the chairman of the Assembly of the Canton of Sarajevo, Elvedin Okerić, speaking today in the National Theater at the Senate's ceremonial session on the occasion of 75th anniversary of the University of Sarajevo.
“The University of Sarajevo is not only the oldest higher education institution in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is also the heart of the intellectual and cultural life of Canton Sarajevo, an institution that has shaped our city for decades, giving it the character of a center of education, culture and innovation. The university was and remains our most important partner in building a community based on knowledge and progress,” said chairman Okerić.
Throughout history, he added, the University went through significant transformations and faced great challenges, but it always remained true to its mission - to educate young people and improve society through science and innovation. According to him, today we can be proud of the fact that the University of Sarajevo is among the leading institutions of higher education in the region, which significantly contributes to the recognition of our capital in the regional and international framework.
“Canton Sarajevo recognizes the importance of the University of Sarajevo for the future of our society. That is why we continuously work to ensure sufficient funds for the work of the University and the implementation of programs and projects that enable the further development of this institution”, said the Chairman of the KS Assembly Elvedin Okerić, congratulating the rector Prof. Dr. To Tarik Zaimović and the entire staff of the University, this significant jubilee.
On behalf of the Rector's Conference of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Prof. Dr. Nermina Hadžigrahić, rector of the University of Tuzla, emphasizing that today we are celebrating together the 75th anniversary of the founding of our oldest and largest university, an institution that since its foundation has been and remains a leader in academics, education and scientific research in our country. “Today is a big day for the University of Sarajevo, but it is also a big day for all of us who are part of the academic community in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The University of Sarajevo is not only a symbol of education and science, it is a symbol of progress, excellence and perseverance. Through all these decades of your existence, despite numerous challenges and numerous obstacles, you have managed not only to survive, but to grow and develop, making a truly immeasurable contribution to the development of our country”, stated Rector Hadžigrahić, and said: “Let us this 75. anniversary reminds us of the importance that education and science have and should have for our country, but let it also remind us of our common responsibility to preserve and improve these values for the sake of the generations that come after us”.
With congratulations on behalf of the Rector's Conference of BiH, Rector Hadžigrahić pointed out that she believes that the University of Sarajevo will remain a beacon of knowledge, innovation and progress for the pride of all of us in the time ahead.
Academician Dr. Husnija Kamberović spoke on behalf of the Academy of Sciences and Arts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, recalling the historic moment when the University Assembly was held on 2 December 1949, which elected the first Rector and Vice-Rector of the University of Sarajevo.
Academician Kamberović reminded of the unbreakable connection between the University and the Academy, which over the decades together carried the scientific, cultural and economic development of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
He pointed out that the University of Sarajevo was the basic base for the formation of the membership of the Academy of Sciences and Arts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and that this connection is still strong today. Throughout history, the University and Academy have been symbols of freedom and intellectual excellence, nurturing science and art. Two members of the Academy from the ranks of the University also became Nobel laureates, and many key projects and achievements in Bosnia and Herzegovina were started at the University.
Academician Kamberović emphasized the importance of preserving freedom and dignity in the work of these institutions, which made an immeasurable contribution to social development and the affirmation of free thought. At the end of his address, he congratulated the University for 75 years of successful activity, expressing the hope that the University will continue to develop its fundamental values of freedom and rights, and that together with the Academy, it will continue to contribute to the affirmation of science and art and expand the scientific achievements of our country.
President of the Student Parliament of the University of Sarajevo, Imran Pašalić, addressed the audience on the occasion of the institution's 75th anniversary, stressing the University's key role in the development of society and the education of young generations.
At the beginning of the speech, he invited those present to honor the students and professors who gave their lives for the defense of the homeland, the city and the University of Sarajevo.
“75 years is a serious anniversary. During its existence, this university has faced many challenges, and the students of the University have always been the brightest side of the institution”, emphasized Pašalić, and added that the University of Sarajevo is a “knowledge factory”, the light at the end of this long, dark and cold tunnel that called the reality of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and that only with knowledge can we build Bosnia and Herzegovina. “And all of you who are sitting in the front rows, should allow the light of our university to shine brighter and brighter, and by no means work to extinguish that light. Woe to him who fights against knowledge because he has no wisdom, woe to him who fights against freedom, he himself will taste slavery. Woe to the one who fights against justice, he will feel the injustice on his own skin. Woe to the one who fights against his homeland, he is left without an identity. A man without an identity is a dead man walking,” Pašalić said.
Speaking about the state of society, he referred to distorted values and emphasized that it is everyone's responsibility to create conditions for the education and development of young people as agents of change.
“I can proudly say that I am a student of the University of Sarajevo and I proudly represent my University, my city and my homeland wherever I am. It's up to us to fight for changes, and it's up to you to prepare and support us for that - concluded Imran Pašalić.
The honorary title of professor emeritus is awarded to retired full professors of the University of Sarajevo who, over a long period of time, have continuously contributed to the improvement and development of scientific and artistic research work, the development and progress of the University and faculties/academies, the teaching process at the University, and have gained an international reputation.
Rector of the University of Sarajevo, Prof. Dr. Tarik Zaimović promoted the following professors in professor emeriti of the University of Sarajevo:
- Dr. Sc. Emir Kurtović, retired full professor of the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Economics
- Dr. Sc. Jasmina Osmanković, retired full professor of the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Economics
- Dr. Sc. Aziz Šunje, retired full professor of the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Economics
- Dr. Sc. Savo Stupar, retired full professor of the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Economics
- Dr. Sc. Sakib Softić, retired full professor of the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Criminalistics, Criminology and Security Studies
- Dr. Sc. Dijana Avdić, retired full professor of the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Health Studies
- Dr. Sc. Miroslav Šober, retired full professor of the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Pharmacy
- Dr. Sc. Muhamed Dželilović, retired full professor of the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Philosophy
- Dr. Sc. Ahmet Čekić, retired full professor of the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
- Dr. Sc. Borislav Petrović, retired full professor of the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Law
On behalf of the promoted UNSA professors emeriti, Dr. Sc. Muhamed Dželilović addressed the attendees.
“It is not bad to remember that the word for this title in ancient Rome denoted military veterans who served honorably and faithfully. It reminds us of the foundations of civilization on which we build our world and towards which we strive,” said professor emeritus Muhamed Dželilović, referring to the challenges facing society today.
He pointed out that society lags behind in key areas such as the rule of law, spatial organization and communication infrastructure, which hinders accelerated development. He emphasized that, despite these challenges, the University of Sarajevo has proven throughout its 75 years of existence that it has sufficient scientific capacity to contribute to solving these problems. The university can make a full contribution to development, but political leaders must change their attitude towards the university. It is necessary to include professors and scientific workers in the planning process, he said. In the end, professor emeritus Dželilović expressed the willingness of the emeritus to continue contributing to the development of the University and society.
“Served but faithful soldiers of this University, we will always respond to the call, as far as our health and age allow, responsibly and honorably,” he concluded.
The vocal ensemble of the UNSA Music Academy, harmonica students, and teachers and alumni of the Music Academy of the University of Sarajevo participated in the cultural and artistic program.
Photographs by: Vanja Čerimagić