The Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in BiH Ambassador Johann Sattler, visited the Secondary School of Economics in Sarajevo on 19 April to attend the delivery of 80 new computers to equip the IT cabinets in this school. This delivery is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing digital literacy and education quality in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Secondary School of Economics is one of 15 vocational educational schools across the country to receive the new computers.
“I have always believed that at school we are not just learning for grades or exams, but for life. Education prepares young people for the challenges they will face in their lives. In the 21st century, digital skills are key, including information how to stay safe online and evaluate sources critically. I am very glad that we are supporting the future generation of BiH citizens to enhance their digital skills by delivering 1000 computers to 15 schools in BiH“, said Ambassador Sattler
The 1000 computers which were delivered to vocational educational and training secondary schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina are worth 432.000 euros. In addition, to the Secondary school of economics in Sarajevo, the computers were delivered to secondary schools in Odzak, Tuzla, Srebrenik, Kalesija, Kladanj, Zenica, Goražde, Kiseljak, Široki Brijeg, Gacko, Trebinje, Prnjavor and Sarajevo.
“This is a truly memorable moment for both me and our school and I wish to thank the EU for choosing our school for the visit. Thanks to our commitment to implementing diverse EU projects, notably Erasmus+, our school is well-known in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also across Europe. We have earned a reputation for embracing modern educational trend, but this would not be possible without robust IT infrastructure and technical training. None of this would be possible without the continues support of our friends. I would like to thank the EU for recognizing our work and enabling us to continue to spread good ideas, to educate and prepare children for the future and the labor market“, said Amira Kadrispahić, Director of the Secondary School of Economics in Sarajevo
The EU support for the improvement of the education system in Bosnia and Herzegovina is multifaceted. In the past two years only, the European Union has provided 16 million euros in grants to support Bosnia and Herzegovina’s preschool, vocational and higher education sectors.
The European Union is currently providing significant funds for the improvement of vocational education in secondary schools in the country. One of the key projects worth more than 3 million euros aims to improve the quality and relevance of vocational education, recognize non-formal learning, and improve digital and entrepreneurial competencies.
In addition to providing brand new equipment and ensuring expertise to support education reforms in the country, the EU funds the renovation of educational institutions aiming to improve working conditions for teachers and students throughout the country. The EU is currently funding the renovation of 20 vocational high schools, 20 preschool institutions, and 18 sports facilities in primary schools across BiH.
Furthermore, the EU provides significant support through its Erasmus+ programme which supports education, training, youth and sports in Europe. This programme provides opportunities for students, teachers and professionals to study, train and gain experience abroad. The Secondary School of Economics in Sarajevo successfully takes part in several EU programmes including the ERASMUS+.
