The Rector of the University of Tuzla, Prof. Dr. Amir Karić, welcomed a delegation from the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) to discuss opportunities for collaboration within the regional project “Just Transition in the Western Balkans.”
During the meeting, participants discussed activities aimed at supporting the just transition process, with a particular focus on the role of the academic community in developing sustainable solutions to economic, social, and environmental challenges.
One of the key topics was support for the establishment and operation of the Regional Center of Excellence for Just Transition in Coal-Dependent Regions at the University of Tuzla. It was emphasized that the Center would serve as an important platform for the development of knowledge, research, and professional competencies necessary for the successful implementation of transition processes.
The participants also explored the possibility of launching an interdisciplinary second-cycle (Master’s) study program entitled “Just Transition of Coal-Dependent Regions.” The program would provide students with knowledge and skills from various fields relevant to managing energy and societal transformation processes.
Special attention was given to the economic and social dimensions of just transition, particularly the position of miners and workers employed in coal-fired power plants. Various models of support, retraining, and the development of new employment opportunities for workers affected by changes in the energy sector were discussed.
The meeting highlighted the importance of cooperation between academia, public institutions, and international partners in designing policies and projects that ensure the transition process is sustainable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of local communities.
The GIZ delegation included Dubravka Bošnjak, Project Manager of the “Just Transition in the Western Balkans” project; Felix Breithaupt and Stefan Beirl, experts from Germany; and Elvis Mujanović, Monitoring Expert at GIZ Sarajevo.
Rector of the University of Tuzla Hosted GIZ Representatives: Strengthening International Cooperation in the Field of Just Transition
