Sarajevo, 27 May 2025 — As part of Ilidža Municipality’s ongoing commitment to becoming a centre of knowledge, innovation, and opportunity, Head of Municipality Mr Nermin Muzur welcomed the Rector of International Burch University (IBU), Prof. Dr Mersid Poturak, for a high-level meeting aimed at establishing a long-term strategic partnership. The Rector was joined by members of his team, including Assoc. Prof. Dr Adnan Novalic and Mr Hermin Kapetanović.
The meeting underscored a shared vision of Ilidža as a forward-thinking university district—one that actively integrates education, entrepreneurship, sport and smart local governance. Under the leadership of Prof. Dr Poturak, IBU has long played a vital role in strengthening the educational and academic landscape of Ilidža, while also supporting wider community development through initiatives in sport, innovation, and youth engagement.
With an ever-growing student body, a portfolio of progressive academic programmes, and a commitment to applied research, IBU stands as a catalyst for Ilidža’s transformation into a dynamic, youth-driven environment. Prof. Dr Poturak emphasised the University’s readiness to actively support the Municipality’s development agenda through structured collaboration and shared innovation goals.
“The potential for meaningful impact is immense when academia and local government work hand in hand,” Prof. Dr Poturak noted. “We view Ilidža not merely as our host, but as a true partner in shaping an ecosystem where students thrive, startups emerge, and communities benefit from practical, research-informed solutions.”
The meeting resulted in proposals such as launching entrepreneurship initiatives, and organising startup innovation events by leveraging university expertise. Additionally, plans are being developed to involve both students and citizens in practical municipal projects, reinforcing a model of inclusive and forward-looking local development.
This partnership directly supports Ilidža’s strategic vision of becoming a place where young people are inspired to learn, create, and remain—building a municipality where innovation is driven by strong institutional cooperation.
For further information, please contact the Office for Marketing and Public Relations at International Burch University.