Over 100 students from Sarajevo and Zenica took part in today’s Student Talks, as part of the European Union project for young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina ‘Generation Change’.
The topic of the discussion was the creative industries, the opportunities that these industries generate for the economy and society, as well as the role of young people in driving their success. Students from both the University of Sarajevo and the University in Zenica had a chance to attend the discussion, talk to creative young professionals, as well join a tour of the Olympic Museum.
“Creative industries are becoming increasingly important around the world. They are not only crucial for jobs and economic growth, but also have a number of other benefits, including stimulating openness and collaboration, strengthening a country’s “brand” and attracting investment. Many people from Bosnia and Herzegovina have managed to be successful internationally. When it comes to creative arts, photography, production and festivals, the cultural offer in this country is impressive. We are proud that EU support contributes to this, for example through the Union’s Creative Europe programme, but also through projects managed by the EU Office in BiH.” – said Adebayo Babajide, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
During an open and wide ranging discussion, participants spoke about issues such as how to establish a career in the creative industries in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the challenges and opportunities offered by freelance work, as well as the situation for cultural industries in other countries in Europe. In addition to the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation, the members of the panel were María Teresa Lizaranzu, the Ambassador of Spain to BiH, Hanna Dujmović, painter, Arnej Misirlić, photographer and director, and Mia Avdagić, Talents Sarajevo Project Manager at the Sarajevo Film Festival.
“Events like these are very significant for young people, as 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 first of all thank you for the opportunity to participate in today’s event and to 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 one of my greatest wishes is to visit the headquarters of the European Union.” – added Amila Avdagić, a student at the Faculty of Economics, University of Sarajevo.
The Student Talks series will continue with discussions with students and young professionals from Mostar, Banja Luka and Bihać. These events will be an opportunity for over 600 students from across the country to engage in conversations and discussions on various topics important for young people in BiH, as well as the steps that BiH is taking towards EU membership. Following the series of Student Talks, some of the students will be selected to take part in a Youth Leadership Conference, scheduled to take place in Sarajevo in May 2024.
