The BHAAAS Student Program was created to provide students from Bosnia and Herzegovina with opportunities for further education, the acquisition of new knowledge and skills, and the building of professional networks both at home and abroad. Through mentorship, international internships, professional placements, the rich student program at the BHAAAS Annual Days, and many other activities, the Academy offers students inspiration and support to become professionals ready to change the world.
Participation in BHAAAS activities provides students with the chance to engage with local and global experts, expand their professional networks, and discover their personal interests and strengths.
The Summer Practice for medical students has been one of this year’s flagship projects, providing a valuable opportunity for learning and hands-on experience. One notable example is Kemal Durić, a student at the University of Sarajevo, who spent a month this summer at the Department of Neurosurgery of the University Clinic in Marburg, under the mentorship of renowned expert Dr. Mirza Pojskić. During his internship, Kemal worked as part of the team in intensive care, on the ward, and in operating rooms. He also participated in ward rounds and conferences, and contributed to scientific research.
“Working in Marburg allowed me to gain invaluable practical experience and a better understanding of the dynamics of a top-level clinic,” Kemal noted.
At the University Clinical Center Tuzla, students Sara Hadžiavdić and Hana Idrizović deepened their knowledge in the Pathology Laboratory under the mentorship of Prof. Ermina Iljazović.
“This practice strengthened my decision to continue my path in genetics and molecular biology. The experience I gained will undoubtedly help me with future academic and professional challenges. It was an invaluable opportunity for my development, and I would recommend participation in such programs to every student,” Hana emphasized.
Sara added: “I never imagined that I would have the chance to be involved in real diagnostic procedures before even completing my degree, but this internship made it possible. I had the opportunity to learn and perform techniques that we don’t even see in practice at university. I believe BHAAAS programs provide students with a unique chance to experience the professional world during their studies, which is invaluable for our education and future careers.”
In Farmavita BiH in Sarajevo, student Dželila Kurtović had the opportunity to work in the Quality Control Laboratory under the supervision of Naida Spahović.
“This internship allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge in a professional setting and to connect with experts, which is crucial for my further development. I would especially highlight that the BHAAAS program enables both networking and student–professional interaction, which I believe is extremely valuable for future career growth,” Dželila explained.
The program is led by Dr. Ljiljana Đukanović, who stresses the importance of a fair and transparent selection process.
“The process was designed to include applications, interviews, and clear selection criteria, with a defined curriculum and professional expectations. We are particularly pleased that there was interest from students across Bosnia and Herzegovina – from Foča and Mostar, to Banja Luka, Tuzla, and Sarajevo. This shows that students everywhere recognize the value of this opportunity.”
According to her, the benefits of the program go far beyond technical knowledge:
“Students have the chance to discover their own interests, build professional networks, and through interaction with supervisors and colleagues, develop skills that are crucial for their future careers.”
The Student Program once again confirms the broader mission of BHAAAS. As a voluntary, nonprofit, non-governmental, non-partisan, multi-ethnic, and multicultural organization, BHAAAS builds bridges of cooperation between the Bosnian-Herzegovinian diaspora and Bosnia and Herzegovina, connects scientists and professionals, promotes knowledge, and opens new perspectives for young people.
Its members contribute with their knowledge and expertise not only to the Academy itself but also to the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina and future generations. The guiding principle of BHAAAS is simple: knowledge is transferable wealth.
Participation in the BHAAAS Student Program means more than gaining practical skills – it is an entry into a community that learns, grows, and creates better opportunities for the education of young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina. For students, it is a chance to network with top mentors, gain experiences that go beyond the classroom, and build confidence to face future academic and professional challenges.
If you are a student and want to seize the opportunity to grow your knowledge, skills, and international connections, join the BHAAAS Student Program.
Learn more at: https://www.bhaaas.org/en/student-program
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