MINIĆ: WE PLAN TO INVEST AROUND BAM 40 MILLION IN DEVELOPMENT OF BANJA LUKA UNIVERSITY

BANJA LUKA, NOVEMBER 7 /SRNA/ - Republika Srpska Prime Minister Savo Minić congratulated the University of Banja Luka on the 51st anniversary of its founding and operation, noting that over the Government's last four-year term, more than BAM 19.5 million had been invested in its development, students and student programs, with a further BAM 40 million planned.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minić said that the University's growth from its original five faculties and three higher schools to today's 16 faculties and more than 150 study programs represented a significant contribution to the development of Republika Srpska.

"Everything that has been done from 1975 to the present day demonstrates progress that is essential not only for Republika Srpska but also for everything that matters to us, including the introduction of new study programs, strengthening international cooperation and creating conditions for our students to become the main driving force behind the development of Republika Srpska," Minić said.

He stressed that the Government was working to provide students with a standard of living and conditions that, as he put it, could not be found anywhere else in the region.

"Furthermore, our academic staff can ensure that students are able to have their degrees recognised and accredited worldwide after graduation," Minić stressed.

He thanked everyone who had worked over the past 51 years to preserve the University's reputation, improve the quality of education and advance student development.

He recalled that he had also been a student at the University of Banja Luka, highlighting the importance of university years in shaping young people's professional and personal lives.

"Starting university, especially for those of us who come from outside Banja Luka, marks the beginning of a new era in which professors, the faculty, student dormitories and a new environment lay the foundations for your future careers and everything you carry with you. It leaves a lasting impression," Minić said.

Minić concluded that the University of Banja Luka was one of the region's prestigious universities and that investment in student welfare reflected care for students, who are the main driving force behind the development of Republika Srpska.