On September 12-13, 2024, the EDIRE Project hosted a vibrant Virtual Mobility event at the Olympic mountain of Bjelašnica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Over the course of two days, participants engaged in meaningful discussions on how equality, diversity, and inclusion can enhance research and education, providing a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and share ideas.
The first day featured presentations from early-stage researchers at the University SSST, who shared valuable insights gained from the inaugural EDIRE Summer School in Madrid. Attendees were inspired by exceptional speakers, including Lindsay Dowling from Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin), who discussed best practices in open science and the importance of enabling true collaboration and equity across communities. Additionally, Dr. Paul Hynds, also from TU Dublin, presented on the Pre-award and New Research Focused Technological University, humorously dubbed “herding rabbits.”
The day concluded with a thought-provoking discussion on Outreach Through EDIRE: Exploring UNESCO as a Counterpart, moderated by Academician Mirsada Hukić, Head of the International Bioethics Committee, UNESCO, and Prof. Dr. Jasminka Hasić – Telalović, EDIRE Project Coordinator.
The second day kicked off with an engaging showcase of current research activities from our partners, featuring presentations by professors from: The University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne (France), The University of Genoa (Italy), Technological University Dublin (Ireland), Complutense University of Madrid (Spain).
The day also included a panel discussion focused on examining equality, diversity, and inclusion practices within Western Balkans universities. Panelists included Academician Mirsada Hukić, Assist. Prof. Dr. Lidija Živković from the Faculty of Law, University of Belgrade, Serbia, and Prof. Dr. Mary Lou O’Neill, EDI Research Group Coordinator at Kadir Has University, Turkey. The panel was expertly moderated by Prof. Dr. Jasminka Hasić – Telalović.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to the success of this event. Let’s maintain this momentum as we look forward to our upcoming activities!