In the ceremonial atmosphere of Hotel Holiday, the 17th BHAAAS Days were officially opened this evening, marking one of the most important scientific and professional gatherings of Bosnian-Herzegovinian experts from the country and the diaspora. The event brought together numerous friends and partners of BHAAAS, representatives of the academic community, healthcare sector, government institutions, international organizations, and distinguished guests from Bosnia and Herzegovina and abroad.
BHAAAS President Zlatan Akšamija addressed the audience and presented the organization’s achievements to date, emphasizing its continuous contribution to the development of science, education, and professional cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and its diaspora. Special emphasis was placed on programs aimed at students, young researchers, and professional training, as well as on strengthening ties between the academic community and professionals around the world.
The importance of these initiatives was also highlighted by Dr. Amina Valjevac, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Sarajevo, who emphasized the value of cooperation with experts from the diaspora, knowledge exchange, and the creation of new opportunities for the education and professional development of medical students.
On behalf of the Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nina Mišković, Secretary of the Ministry, addressed the audience, stressing the importance of projects that connect Bosnian-Herzegovinian experts around the world and contribute to development and capacity building in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The gathering was also addressed by Nihad Uk, Prime Minister of Sarajevo Canton, who underlined the importance of investing in knowledge, innovation, and science as key foundations of modern social and economic development.
During the ceremony, a certificate of appreciation was presented to Alen Pilav, Director of the Clinical Center of the University of Sarajevo (KCUS), in recognition of his exceptional contribution to the development and promotion of medicine and to strengthening cooperation between healthcare institutions, experts from Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Bosnian-Herzegovinian diaspora.
Honorary awards were also presented to individuals who, through their work and engagement, have made significant contributions to the development of science, education, medicine, and international cooperation.
The ceremony particularly emphasized the importance of building bridges of cooperation, friendship, and trust among people, institutions, and communities, as well as the important role of the Bosnian-Herzegovinian diaspora in transferring knowledge, experience, and international connections that contribute to the overall development of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
As part of the official opening of the 17th BHAAAS Days, an initiative was also presented that uniquely connects science, culture, and the preservation of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s cultural and historical heritage. Dr. Amila Buturović, an internationally recognized expert and BHAAAS member, presented the project of the future permanent exhibition at the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, “The Magic of Talismans: Objects of Health and Protection from the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina,” implemented in partnership between BHAAAS and the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
An artistic presentation of the international interdisciplinary project AYSHA, authored by Davor Mucić, was also presented. The project brings together experts from medicine, psychology, and the arts with the aim of strengthening dialogue on mental health, trauma, prevention, and support for victims of violence.
The 17th BHAAAS Days continue with a rich program of scientific lectures, expert panels, workshops, and meetings, which will bring together leading experts from various fields over the coming days and open space for new projects, partnerships, and initiatives.
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