Sarajevo, March 19, 2024 – At the School of Economics and Business, University of Sarajevo, more than 100 students from Sarajevo and Zenica participated in Student Talks as part of the EU youth project in Bosnia and Herzegovina called GenChange. The topic of the discussion was the creative industry, the opportunities it creates for the economy and society, as well as the role of young people in fostering their success. Students from the University of Sarajevo and the University of Zenica had the opportunity to attend this event, engage in discussions with creative young professionals, and join a tour of the Olympic Museum.
"The creative industry is becoming increasingly important worldwide. It is not only crucial for jobs and economic growth but also has a range of other benefits, including fostering openness and collaboration, strengthening the country, and attracting investments. Many people from Bosnia and Herzegovina have succeeded internationally. When it comes to creativity, art, photography, production, and festivals, the cultural offerings in this country are impressive. We are proud that EU support contributes to this, for example, through the Creative Europe program, but also projects led by the EU Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina," said Adebayo Babajide, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
During the discussion, participants talked about issues such as how to pursue a career in the creative industry in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the challenges and opportunities offered by freelance work, and the situation in the cultural industry in other European countries. In addition to the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation, panel members included María Teresa Lizaranzu, Ambassador of Spain to BiH, Hanna Dujmović, painter, Arnej Misirlić, photographer and director, and Mia Avdagić, project manager of Talents Sarajevo at the Sarajevo Film Festival.
"I believe that events like these are very significant for young people because they bring together students from different cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. My motivation to participate was precisely to provide an opportunity for us, the youth, to contribute and express our creativity, which I believe is important for Bosnia and Herzegovina's steps towards EU integration. I think there will be a great response from young people throughout the continuation of this project," said Adil Arapović, a student at the Faculty of Economics, University of Zenica.
"I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to participate in today's event and discuss how young people can contribute to a better future for Bosnia and Herzegovina. I plan to apply for the competition for a trip to Brussels because it is one of my biggest desires to visit the headquarters of the European Union," added Amila Avdagić, a student at the University of Sarajevo – School of Economics and Business.
The series of Student Talks will continue with students and young professionals from Mostar, Banja Luka, and Bihać. These events will provide an opportunity for over 600 students from across the country to engage in discussions and conversations on various topics important to young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the steps Bosnia and Herzegovina is taking towards EU membership. After the series of Student Talks, some students will be selected to participate in the Youth Leadership Conference, planned to be held in Sarajevo in May 2024.
University of Sarajevo - School of Economics and Business