OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina supports ‘Classroom of Peace’ in Bradići/Fojnica

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) and the Austrian Embassy in Sarajevo, supported the association of citizens “Fojničani” in establishing an outdoor ‘Classroom of Peace’ which was opened on 29 September 2021 in Bradići/Fojnica settlement, in the Maglaj municipality.  

The classroom, which was built by volunteers on land set aside by the municipality is designed to bring students together through extra-curricular activities.  The project is the result of a partnership among the OSCE Mission, the Austrian Embassy, Fojničani, and local school leaders. 

Students, teachers, parents, municipal officials and non-governmental representatives gathered at the opening ceremony to inaugurate the classroom and show support for building a strong and healthy community that values diversity and promotes collaboration.

“We applaud efforts in Maglaj and in neighbouring municipalities – including nearby Žepče – to strengthen inter-ethnic co-operation,” said Kathleen Kavlec, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH. “The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina is pleased to support this endeavour based on our commitment to inclusive, discrimination-free education.  It is important for youth to have the opportunity to socialize and learn with each other through extracurricular activities. This outdoor classroom will further expand such offerings.  We look forward to seeing the whole community make the most of it,” stressed Kavalec.

Ulrike Hartmann, Austrian Ambassador to BiH, said: “This ‘peace classroom’ is a perfect example of bringing together young people. It provides an opportunity to spend time in nature and come up with creative ideas to help protect this beautiful environment.  It is my strong conviction that young people and their enthusiasm are the motor for progress in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You have the potential to be change-makers! ”

This activity is part of the wider efforts of the OSCE Mission to BiH to build an inclusive, discrimination-free and modern education system that is best placed to teach young people the values and skills needed to succeed in today’s world.