IUS Academic Council Meeting Recognizes Excellence and Shares Vision for the Future
The International University of Sarajevo (IUS) held a special Academic Council Meeting on Friday, April 3, 2026, bringing together university leadership, professors, colleagues, and members of the IUS community to celebrate academic excellence and reflect on important priorities for the University’s future.
The event opened with remarks by the IUS Rector, Prof. Dr. Ali Osman Kuşakcı, who addressed key contemporary challenges affecting higher education, including artificial intelligence and demographic changes. He also spoke about the University’s response to these developments through training, the improvement of teaching methods, the updating of study programs and curricula, digitalization, interdisciplinary approaches, and a stronger contribution to society.
The program continued with presentations by the Vice-Rectors, each offering an overview of important priorities within their respective areas of responsibility. Associate Prof. Dr. Tarik Namas, Vice-Rector for Academic Activities and Students’ Affairs, spoke about the broad scope of academic coordination and student-related processes, while also pointing to several areas identified for further improvement in the period ahead. Associate Prof. Dr. Kanita Karađuzović-Hadžiabdić, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation and Research, presented a review of key developments and priorities over the past five years, with a focus on research, internationalization, accreditation, digitalization, and future planning. Associate Prof. Muhammed Yasir Göz, MA, Vice-Rector for General Affairs, emphasized the importance of efficiency, clear coordination, practical problem-solving, and continued development in areas related to partnerships, infrastructure, student experience, and community building.
A central part of the program was the Presentation of Certificates of Academic Excellence and Tokens of Appreciation to colleagues whose work has stood out through excellence in teaching, research, academic engagement, and contribution to the development of the University. Their dedication has enriched the academic experience of students and further strengthened the institutional culture of IUS.
The program also included a special posthumous recognition dedicated to the memory of Emina Lagumdžija. Through the Certificate of Posthumous Recognition and Academic Excellence, IUS honored her lasting contribution as an educator and the meaningful impact she left on her students and colleagues. Her kindness, professionalism, and devotion to teaching remain an important part of the University’s legacy.
The meeting concluded with a message of appreciation for the wider IUS community, including the heads of administrative units whose dedication and professionalism play an essential role in the daily functioning and continued growth of the University. The event served as a valuable reminder that academic excellence is built through collaboration, mutual support, and a shared commitment to the mission of IUS.
