Continuing Collaboration between the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences at the University of South Bohemia and the University of Sarajevo

The Faculty of Health and Social Sciences at the University of South Bohemia (FHSS USB) has successfully collaborated with the University of Sarajevo (UNSA) since 2019. These partnerships are crucial for the exchange of knowledge and experience between academics and students of both institutions. In 2023, the second follow-up project, Erasmus KA171, commenced, focusing on developing cooperation in the fields of social work, physiotherapy, and nursing. This project runs until 2026 and emphasizes teaching mobility for academic staff and study stays or internships for students. These activities are key to enhancing the academic and professional skills of participants and deepening international cooperation.
In May 2024, representatives from FHSS USB visited the University of Sarajevo. Associate Professor Adéla Mojžíšová met with Sanela Bašić and Sanela Šadić, the Vice-Dean for International Relations at the Faculty of Political Sciences, where she gave several lectures to social work students. The Director of the Institute of Physiotherapy and Selected Medical Disciplines, MUDr. et Mgr. Marcela Míková, Ph.D., and Mgr. Tomáš Hrdý met with the Vice-Dean for International Relations, Jasmina Mahmutović, and Dr. Bakir Katana and Dr. Eldad Kaljič from the Faculty of Health Studies. They delivered lectures to students of Physiotherapy and Sanitary Engineering. Besides delivering expert lectures, the aim of this visit was to motivate UNSA students to participate in mobilities at FHSS USB. An interesting experience was gained through excursions to both public and private physiotherapy facilities, where FHSS USB students will also begin their internships.
In the first week of July 2024, Ing. Jana Ředinová from the International Relations Office of FHSS USB attended the prestigious 11th International Staff Week held in Sarajevo. The event attracted 45 participants from various European and non-European countries and offered a diverse programme focused on various aspects of Erasmus cooperation. During the week, participants engaged in the following key topics:
- Erasmus Cooperation: Discussing new opportunities and strategies within the Erasmus programme
- Erasmus Gone Wrong: Sharing experiences and challenges faced by various participants during their Erasmus mobilities
- Networking: Opportunities to establish new contacts and collaborations between institutions
- European Alliances: Presentations and discussions about alliances of European universities
- Communication and Mental Health: Raising awareness about the importance of communication and mental health in the academic environment
- Best Practices in Erasmus: Sharing best practices and successful projects within the Erasmus programme
Participation in this event contributed to expanding knowledge and skills in international cooperation and communication. Discussions and presentations on best practices in Erasmus and mental health were particularly beneficial for further development of programmes and projects at our university. This event also provided a platform for exchanging experiences and inspiring new projects and initiatives that can enrich both students and academics.
From the academic year 2024/2025, student exchanges from UNSA for internships in the study programmes of Social Work, General Nursing, and Physiotherapy will also take place., The arrival of two students for study stays in the field of social work is expected. Two places for a two-month professional internship in the summer semester of 2024/2025 will be offered to second- and third-year students of Physiotherapy and Social Work.