A Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Banja Luka and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) was signed on 12 May 2026, establishing a framework for cooperation in areas of mutual interest aimed at advancing sustainable development, strengthening institutional capacities, and supporting social and economic progress in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Memorandum was signed by the Rector of the University of Banja Luka, Prof. Radoslav Gajanin, PhD, and the UNDP Resident Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Renaud Meyer, in the presence of the Vice-Rector for Human and Material Resources, Prof. Dalibor Kesić, PhD, and the Head of the UNDP Regional Office in Banja Luka, Goran Vukmir.
As stated, the cooperation will be implemented within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals, in accordance with the SDG Framework for Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as United Nations and UNDP strategic documents for the 2026–2030 period.
Particular focus will be placed on inclusive green growth, support for a just green transition, climate adaptation, energy efficiency, the circular economy, protection of natural resources and biodiversity, as well as the economic empowerment of women and youth.
The Memorandum also includes cooperation in the areas of human capital development, enhancement of digital and entrepreneurial skills, and strengthening local communities through the modernization of public services, more transparent governance, and support for sustainable local development.
This document establishes a five-year framework for cooperation, with the possibility of implementing joint projects in the fields of education, research, and innovation.
Later that day, a dialogue session with students was held at the Faculty of Philosophy of the University of Banja Luka, featuring the UNDP Resident Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Renaud Meyer, and focusing on the topic of sustainable development. During the discussion, students had the opportunity to exchange views and ask questions about the challenges and prospects of sustainable development, as well as the role of young people in green transition processes and social progress.
Photo: A. Vidaković
