Developing a shared vision for education reform in Bosnia and Herzegovina, by highlighting and sharing positive changes that have been made in schools around the country is the theme of an education campaign launched today by OSCE, OHR and other organisations involved in education reform. The campaign highlights classroom innovations already being practised, and encourages discussion of how to move forward with a fundamental reform of the BiH education system.
“I propose a vision for education reform that includes modern schools, where all parents and students have a voice, where teaching is as interactive as possible, and where students’ creativity, individuality, diversity, and special talents are encouraged and used to drive the learning process,” said Ambassador Robert M. Beecroft, Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina. He spoke at one of six schools around BiH where the education campaign was launched.
Ministers of education, principals of international organisations, school directors, students, teachers and parents participated in the launch, which took place in schools that have set a good example, introducing innovative techniques and promoting inclusive education. They have made a positive impact on children’s lives.
As the High Representative, Paddy Ashdown, noted, “Teachers in Bosnia and Herzegovina are already reforming the education system from inside. As these innovations spread, so too will their positive impact.”
The education campaign introduces an Education directory, which includes BIH-wide information about schools that use modern classroom techniques. Their different approaches will hopefully encourage others to follow in their footsteps and learn from their experiences.
The campaign consists not only of conventional advertisements, but gives students, teachers, parents and others an opportunity to express their views on education reform, through TV and radio features and shows, competitions for students and journalists, roundtables and newsletters. It is envisaged that the campaign will last until early spring 2003.