The third module of the “Learn, Think and Act!” (UMiD) training for teachers and support staff of secondary schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina is a continuation of the inspiring journey that 24 motivated professionals in education started at the beginning of June.
During the third module, our great team of participants deepened their understanding of service learning and agreed on a common definition of this concept. Through interactive sessions, teamwork, and support from our partners at the Center for Educational Initiatives Step by Step, participants explored various approaches to service learning. They learned about the elements and standards of service learning and how these can be integrated into their own curricula.
“The entire training has been extremely useful for me, but I have to admit that this third module was the most interesting because of the variety of activities and the emphasis on teamwork. We all connected more deeply, exchanged experiences, and learned both with and from each other. I will take with me to Ilijaš valuable new knowledge and experiences that I will be able to apply both in and out of the classroom. It will be my way to work with my students and be the change I want to see in the community and the world,” – said Almedina Numić, an English teacher at the Nedžad Ibrišimović High School Center in Ilijaš.
All previous training modules have contributed to the concrete planning of service learning and empowered participants to apply new methods in their teaching, as well as contribute to the community and the common good.
“The entire UMiD journey was an enriching and inspiring experience for me. Enriched with new knowledge, acquaintances—dare I say friendships—and experiences, I return to my classroom eager to embark on new quests for knowledge and positive change in the community where my students and I live and grow together. I am grateful to the Institute for Youth Development KULT for this opportunity and look forward to every new collaboration with people who, each in their own way, inspired me with their energy and their insights,” said Nedžla Krnjić, an English teacher at the Multidisciplinary Secondary School in Donji Vakuf.
Since having coffee is always a good time for a chat in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the participants had the opportunity to socialize with the CEO of the Institute, Jasmin Bešić.
“I was particularly inspired by Coffee with… Jasmin Bešić, where we had the opportunity to discuss his perspective as a parent and a long-time member of the Parents’ Council, a teacher by profession but also a visionary who, aware of the importance of formal and informal education, bases his work and the work of his team on supporting young people and everything that entails, including education. The third training module completely eliminated all my prejudices and skepticism. I had so many questions—am I in the right place, is this for me, will it benefit me, will I apply something in my work, will my classroom teaching be more diverse and enriched with new methods and approaches? Without any intention of flattering, I must say that this training had very high-quality trainers and coordinators, as well as a carefully selected group of participants. It was a group of motivated individuals who step into the classroom every day, attentive to the needs of students, and consider this knowledge and experience as invaluable tools in their work. To conclude, UMiD is a remarkable journey that has never failed to inspire me. Every moment has filled me with happiness and gratitude for being a part of it,” said Sanela Stanković, Serbian language and literature teacher at the Mihajlo Pupin High School Center in Derventa.
The training program for teachers and support staff of secondary schools arose from the need to support teachers in developing competencies needed for planning and implementing experiential learning while at the same time strengthening connections in the educational community. The teaching profession plays a crucial role in shaping the future of young people. This training program empowers educators to become agents of change who support the development of their students and communities.
Although this UMiD training finished with the third module, this is not the end.
The Institute for Youth Development KULT, along with this exceptional group of professionals, will pave the way for new opportunities and aspirations for improved education in Bosnia and Herzegovina through the local civil initiatives program. By applying their new knowledge both inside and outside the classroom, teachers will have the chance to introduce innovations and foster positive changes within the educational system. Their motivation and dedication to learning are certain to have a profound impact on improving the lives of our young generations.
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