The fifth regular session of the BH Rectors’ Conference held

The fifth regular session of the Rectors’ Conference of Bosnia and Herzegovina was held at the University of Zenica on 26 October 2021. On the agenda was an item that referred to the model of hiring external associates in the teaching process, as well as the method of payment of contracts based on the development of domestic and international projects at public universities in FBiH. This issue was also discussed at the previous session of the Conference, and the conclusions reached at that session were presented to the public.

“We will probably, as rectors, have to sign contracts with external associates in the same way as last year, because that is the only way to continue with the teaching processes in this academic year,” said Prof. Dr. Sc. Jusuf Duraković, University of Zenica Rector. The key problem in this matter is the inconsistency of the laws at the state and cantonal levels that regulate the field of higher education with the Law on Income Tax and the Law on Contributions at the entity level. Furthermore, it was pointed out that the payment of the tax is not disputable, but the amount at which it is calculated is problematic. Universities have so far settled all tax obligations, but the payment of taxes in the amount of 60% and more is completely unacceptable and calls into question the implementation of the teaching process, scientific and research work, and the implementation of domestic and international projects.

Rectors’ Conference representatives have already taken some steps, and informed the higher levels of government about this problem, who have shown understanding and interest in finding a model to address this issue.