University of Sarajevo Hosts Its 16th International Staff Training Week
From 5 to 9 October 2026, the University of Sarajevo hosted its 16th International Staff Training Week, welcoming 21 international participants from eight countries: Czechia, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Poland and Spain. Organised by the International Relations Office, the five-day programme combined professional workshops, exchanges of experience, networking and opportunities to explore Bosnia and Herzegovina’s cultural and historical heritage.
The week opened with a welcome programme at the University of Sarajevo Rectorate, introducing participants to the University’s history, traditions and internationalisation activities. An introductory session exploring the language, culture and identity of Bosnia and Herzegovina helped guests gain a better understanding of their host country. Participant presentations and an interactive “Human Bingo” activity encouraged colleagues from different institutions to get to know one another, followed by a guided walking tour of Sarajevo.
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”. The workshop provided an opportunity to exchange 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 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.
A highlight of the week was participation in the 16th University of Sarajevo Scholarship Fair – UNSA Study Expo, held on 7 October at the Rectorate. Participants had the opportunity to present their institutions and speak 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. The fair also showcased opportunities offered by EUPeace, the European University Alliance of which the University of Sarajevo is a member.
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.
This year’s participants join the UNSA 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 the development of cooperation between the University of Sarajevo and its international partners.
