The University of Banja Luka en route to be recognized on world`s scale

University of Banja Luka, on its 49th anniversary, celebrates the rich history and a constant drive towards knowledge and advancement.

Since its foundation in 1975, this institution has become not only the center of education and science for the Republic of Srpska, but also the vital part of the academic community in the region.

Through continuous investing in human potential, scientific resources and modern technologies, the University of Banja Luka builds a firm foundation for the future, with the aim to become recognized as center of knowledge in Europe and the world.

Its goals are clearly set: promotion and development of science-researching activity, contribution to economic and social development, elevating level of education in all levels, and creation of qualified cadre.  With its wide spectrum of study programs, the University of Banja Luka offers the young people a possibility to acquire skills and knowledge in various fields – from natural and social sciences via technical and medical sciences to art and humanities. This kind of multidisciplinary approach is a key to create a dynamic academic environment and new knowledges, as well as for preparation of future generations for the challenges of contemporary world.

The scientific achievements of the University of Banja Luka are indisputable and visible in numerous research projects, publications and patents. The researchers at University of Banja Luka are dedicated to solving problems, of local to global significance. In the sphere of biotechnology, knowledge and experience of university experts have been applied in the development of new kinds of agricultural cultures and in creating new methods for treatment and prevention of diseases. In the sphere of information sciences, the University of Banja Luka is leading the development of new software solutions and digital technologies, thus contributing the digital transformation of the society.

The growing availability and application of new technologies in education process, such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, present a significant opportunity for the University of Banja Luka to improve the quality and availability of education.

Through developing new teaching materials, implementing online teaching platforms and using interactive technologies in the teaching process, the University of Banja Luka will create a more interactive and efficient environment for learning and secure access to knowledge to all the students regardless of their location.

In order to become a recognized center of knowledge in Europe and the world, the University of Banja Luka is fully dedicated to internationalization. Cooperation with universities from Europe and the World, international conferences and exchange of students and professors are the key elements in realization of this goal. This kind of internationalization will ensure access to global knowledge and experiences, improve the quality of research and open new possibilities for students and teaching staff.

In the coming years, the University of Banja Luka shall focus on strengthening the existing and making new centers of excellence in different scientific fields, and attracting new talents and knowledges in the whole world. Implementation of innovative models of teaching process and use of advanced technologies will ensure that the University of Banja Luka remains a leader in education and science. Through permanent advancement, development and investing in people, the University of Banja Luka shall continue to inspire and shape the future of the Republic of Srpska and the region, leaving behind an inerasable mark in science, education and society.

The University of Banja Luka, recognizing the importance of global cooperation and exchange of knowledge, actively attracts students from various regions of the world. The open door for young talents from India, China, Russia, and other countries are the proof of University's desire to create a diverse and dynamic academic surrounding. This strategy that includes special programs and scholarships for foreign students, brings numerous advantages, for the University and for the students coming from far away.

Students from India, attracted by rich tradition and high standards of education at the University of Banja Luka, often decide to study in the field of medicine, engineering and IT sciences. Their desire to get quality education in combination with the possibility to get acquainted with a new culture and to apply their skills in a fast-growing economy of the Republic of Srpska, make them a valuable contribution to the academic community.

Chinese students, known for their hard work and eagerness to succeed, look for contemporary programs at the University of Banja Luka that would enable them to acquire knowledges and skills necessary for success in the global context. They often choose studies in the field of business, economy and law, stimulated by the perspective to apply the acquired knowledge in the fast-growing Chines economy.

Students from Russia, known for their knowledge in the field of natural and technical sciences, at the University of Banja Luka find the environment that enables them to deepen their knowledge and skills in the field of engineering, informatics and mathematics. This cooperation aids to strengthening the relations between the Republic of Srpska and Russia and enables students from Russia to get a valuable experience in a multicultural surroundings.

Accepting the students from different countries and continents, the University of Banja Luka is fully included in the global academic society. It contributes not only to exchange of knowledge, but also to richness of cultures, ideas and perspectives that students bring along to their academic environment. Investing into the international cooperation and accepting students from different cultures is not only strategic goal of the University of Banja Luka, but also an important step on a path towards the world recognition.

The author of the column published in „Nezavisne novine“ is a full professor at the University of Banja Luka, Duško Vejnović, PhD