Dr. Azra Sadiković, a physician specializing in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery who is building her career in the United States, has taken the helm of BHAAAS. She succeeds Prof. Zlatan Akšamija, who reflected in his farewell remarks on the Academy’s work and the growing recognition of its members’ contributions in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Reflecting on this change, Prof. Akšamija noted that BHAAAS members had sometimes felt their efforts were “an uphill battle.” Today, he said, he sees their work and contributions being recognized and valued by institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He added that this made him happy and encouraged further cooperation.
In her remarks, Dr. Sadiković emphasized that young people would be an important focus of her presidency. She spoke in particular about the generation of Bosnian-Herzegovinian heritage born abroad that is now entering its thirties, and the importance of encouraging them to take an interest in Bosnia and Herzegovina and maintain a lasting connection with their homeland.
“We want to create more opportunities for young people to get involved, connect, and collaborate, and to encourage them to bring their knowledge and experience into closer connection with Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Dr. Sadiković.
The program opened with remarks from representatives of diplomatic and government institutions. Participants heard video messages from John Ginkel, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Sven Alkalaj, Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United States. Tatjana Telić, Consul General of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Chicago, addressed the gathering in person, expressing her support for BHAAAS and its mission. Sevlid Hurtić, Minister of Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina, also delivered a video address.
Emir Ibrahimagić, Head of the Sarajevo Canton Government Office for Diaspora Affairs, also attended. During the program, BHAAAS and the Office signed a memorandum of cooperation. This marks a new step in strengthening a partnership that has already developed through projects connecting the diaspora with academic, scientific, and professional institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In 2025, the Office for Diaspora Affairs supported a BHAAAS project through its program to strengthen ties with the diaspora.
Other speakers included Muris Čičić, President of the Academy of Sciences and Arts of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Suad Krilašević, representative of the Association for the Advancement of Science and Technology; and Martina Egedušević, representative of the BH Futures Foundation.
Following the transfer of the presidency, a series of lectures was held. As part of the BHAYA program, Haris Smajkić spoke about his experience applying to UCLA. Elvir Resić presented international knowledge as an opportunity and a source of development potential, while Seid Korić discussed how artificial intelligence is transforming medicine, engineering, and everyday life. New BHAAAS members were also introduced during the program.
The working session focused on reports about the Academy’s activities and operations. Reports were presented by the Medical and Health Division, the Technical and Natural Sciences Division, the Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences Division, the Student Program, and the Artificial Intelligence Program. Members also discussed proposals for new initiatives. The evening program included a gala dinner and fundraising event.
The 20th Annual Meeting reaffirmed BHAAAS’s role in connecting professionals from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the diaspora, exchanging knowledge, and creating new opportunities for institutional cooperation. One of the Academy’s next major gatherings will be the 18th Days of BHAAAS, taking place in Sarajevo from June 17 to 20, 2027. The Days of BHAAAS bring together local and international experts from across the sciences and arts and are among the most significant international scientific conferences in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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