BH public universities Rectors: Strengthening cooperation between public universities during the Covid-19 pandemic
Strengthening cooperation between public universities during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the importance of holding practical classes for health students are some of the topics discussed at the fourth regular session of the BH Rectors’ Assembly held on 11 November 2020 in Bihać, chaired by Prof. Dr. Fadil Islamović, Rector of the University of Bihać.
Public universities rectors, considering the Information on Priorities for the Development of Higher Education in Bosnia and Herzegovina for 2020 sent to the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, identified and stated how and to what extent the coronavirus pandemic negatively affected the quality and scope of teaching and scientific research work at public universities, and because of all that has been said, they have expressed serious concern about the possible consequences for science in general in the future.
Considering that the five-year Agreement on Cooperation and Understanding of all eight public universities in BiH expires in December this year, it was concluded that the rectors will sign a new agreement without a time limit at the next session scheduled for 10 December 2020. The focus will be on Article 2 of this agreement, which provides for all forms of cooperation and academic exchange between public universities with an emphasis on the exchange of teaching staff in order to ensure higher quality teaching. This especially refers to the exchange of teachers and cooperation of faculties in the field of medical sciences in order to ensure a smooth teaching process of all faculties in conditions aggravated by coronavirus.
The BH Rectors’ Assembly appeals and recommends to the competent entity and cantonal authorities in BiH, crisis staffs of all levels of government, directors of health institutions (health centers, cantonal hospitals, hospital centers, clinical centers) to allow medical students to enter for practical training. teaching in the same, and in accordance with all epidemiological measures.
all BH public universities rectors believe that in this way preconditions will be created for students of medical and health studies faculties to acquire practical knowledge and skills in these extraordinary circumstances and thus become quality staff for the future of this country will not be able to replace.
In addition to the abovestated, rectors expressed concern over the growing number of ill health workers and saw in this appeal an opportunity to compensate the medical Faculties of public universities for the growing shortage and deficit of health staff.