Sarajevo, 2 June 2025 – International Burch University (IBU) had the honour of welcoming a distinguished delegation of British academics. The visit, which took place on 2 June 2025, culminated in a high-profile guest lecture and academic exchange at the IBU campus in Sarajevo.
The day commenced with a formal reception in the Senate Room, during which Assoc. Prof. Engin Obucic, Head of the Rector’s Office, extended a warm welcome on behalf of both the Rector's Office and the wider IBU academic community. Remarks were also delivered by the Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences, Assoc. Prof. Irfan Djedovic, and the Head of the Department of International Relations and European Studies (IRES), Assist. Prof. Lejla Ramic-Mesihovic.
Following a brief institutional presentation and a structured discussion on the challenges of higher education in a multipolar world, the guests toured the IBU campus, gaining insights into the university’s dynamic academic environment, research priorities, and ongoing infrastructural investments.
The centrepiece of the visit was a compelling guest lecture entitled “The Role of International Institutions in Safeguarding Minority Rights”, delivered by Dr. Jennifer Jackson-Preece, Associate Professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). The event was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Adis Maksić (IBU), whose research in ethnic mobilisation and political discourse in the Balkans complemented Dr. Jackson-Preece’s expertise in nationalism and minority rights in Europe.
Held in the main auditorium of Building B, the lecture addressed pressing issues such as the resurgence of nationalism, evolving identity politics, and the role of international frameworks in preserving democratic values across Europe. The event attracted broad attendance from students and faculty members, particularly from the Department of International Relations, Management, and Finance.
This collaborative encounter not only fostered meaningful academic dialogue but also opened avenues for potential partnerships in research and educational exchange between IBU and institutions such as London School of Economics (LSE), Keele University, and the University of Bath.
International Burch University remains committed to nurturing global academic ties and promoting academic understanding through initiatives such as these. The University expresses its sincere gratitude to the UK academics and all visiting delegates for their valuable contributions and inspiring presence.