First Children's University in BiH organized at the University of Sarajevo
WUS Austria introduces the first Children’s University in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) that gathers children around science and research-based topics in order to promote higher education cooperation between primary schools and universities in BiH, as well as to build a common future. The first Children’s University (CU) in BiH took place from October 12 – 14, 2011 at the University of Sarajevo.
The overall objective of the action is to increase the interest in science, research and technology from a very young age and to engage children in exciting, interactive, real-world learning experiences. This way the children develop academic talent and knowledge, creativity and personal growth, and they are encouraged to be curious and to think critically.
Moreover, the project strengthens the role of civil society, human rights and democratic principles through participation of all groups of society in higher education. This aim is reached by fostering dialogue and interest in higher education in children who are important multipliers in the present and even more so in the future. Introducing the first Children’s University in BiH, and establishing the concept nationwide will contribute to educating a new generation in the whole region who will be capable of taking their future into their own hands and implement their rights in a self-confident and peaceful way.
Within the program, the academic staff of the University held lectures for children from the age of 10-12 at the following five faculties:
- Faculty of Sports and Physical Education
- Academy of Performing Arts
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
In the pilot phase (2011) 96 children, accompanied by 17 teachers, coming from 9 schools in BiH (Mostar, Capljina, Doboj and Banja Luka) took part in the Children’s University. Apart from lectures at the faculties, the children also participated in “extra – curricular” activities, such as a visit to the Sparkasse Bank, interactive workshops in English language in cooperation with the British Council, a visit to the National Museum and seeing a play at the Sarajevo Youth Theatre.
The CU in BiH is financed through the Robert Bosch Foundation and ERSTE Foundation, further sponsors and partners include: Sparkasse, Merkur Osiguranje, British Council, Vienna Children's University, Prodravka d.o.o., McDonald's, Strabag and Freytag & Berndt.
You can download the agenda here.
Find out more information about the Children's University in Bosnia and Herzegovina at the project website.
