Possibilities for Social Cohesion in Education: Bosnia-Herzegovina

Abstract

In postwar Bosnia–Herzegovina, segregation along ethno-nationalistic lines and divergent pedagogies within the education system have presented challenges to social cohesion and the long-term stability of a society that is still struggling to rebuild, reconcile, and regain trust (Jancic, 2008). This article examines the current state of the education system within (a) leadership, (b) primary and secondary schooling (i.e., segregation, language of instruction, textbooks, and curriculum), (c) school–community relations (parent–teacher associations and international organizations), and (d) higher education. Within each of the four aspects, the article explores the challenges and possibilities for social cohesion presented within schools and through education at the larger societal level in Bosnia–Herzegovina.

Notes

According to Benedek (1997), the University of Sarajevo wrote letters to more than 40 international universities with which it had had past ties; however, few replied and assistance remained low during the war. Universities and students from Graz, Mannheim, France, and Sweden sent food, office supplies, books, and other materials.