RESEARCH TOPICS 91. ELECTRONIC SUPPORT TO SCIENCE AND RESEARCH WORK – ENIR

Project Purpose:
The idea behind this project is to enable publishing science and research papers and publications on the Internet and compiling them in a database.
The idea is also to allow teaching staff and other participants in the higher education process to find out more about science and research, ways to apply for funding, etc. All of this can lead to better quality education, better communication and improve the quality of the teaching process itself. A catalogue of papers on the PhD, M.A., B.A. and course level would help students and teachers have a better insight into the material available for faster, better and higher quality academic development.
The problem could be solved by compiling a database and a CMS that would serve primarily our University as a pilot project. The next phase of development would be cooperation with other universities and expanding the project to all the Universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Aims:
- Set up electronic support to science and research work at the Džemal Bijedić University in Mostar
- Create active electronic space for improving science and research activities
- Educate future users to use the database
- Prepare space for cooperation with the wider academic community in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Project Leader:

Name:                            Salko Kovačić
Business address:     University Campus, Mostar
E-mail address:          salko@unmo.ba

Associates:

Name:                             Šejla Maslo
Business address:      University Campus, Mostar
E-mail address:            sejla.maslo@unmo.ba
Name:                             Nerina Nevesinjac
Business address:      University Campus, Mostar
E-mail address:            nerina.n@gmail.com
Name:                             Edina Špago-Ćumurija
Business address:     University Campus, Mostar
E-mail address:           edina@unmo.ba
Name:                            Zoran Kazazić
Business address:     University Campus, Mostar
E-mail address:           zoran.kazazic@unmo.ba

90. THE POSITION OF WOMEN IN EVERYDAY LIFE IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Purpose

A comprehensive identification of the nature of the position of women in today's Bosnia and Herzegovina (apart from contributions in the form of theoretical models stemming from social sciences dealing with issues or characteristics of women in the modern world) should show the way to strengthen the position of women so that the issue of gender equality may be ruled out as a problem.

Summary

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, there are many criteria for a systematic stratification of demographics for the purpose of identifying the process of social exclusion. One such criterion is gender. According to practically all relevant research (both academic and studies aimed at improving the position of women in Bosnia and Herzegovina) it is evident that our country clearly divides almost all aspects of public and social life into the male and female domain. Even from a precursory analysis of the domain attributed to women, it is obvious that it contains a component of degradation and denies women the opportunity to realise their ambitions and potentials to a greater extent (if not completely).
The main problem of this study is, therefore, the position of women in Bosnian-Herzegovinian society and the factors contributing to maintaining the status quo (thereby also identifying factors that would enable a reduction in gender inequality). Attention is also devoted to a number of psychological and sociological constructs inextricably tied to women's issues.

Questions Raised by the Project

The results of the project are directed at a number of practical questions. First, what is the actual general position of women in Bosnia and Herzegovina today, followed immediately by a comparison between the perception of gender and gender differences and the actual state of affairs. The logical next step that follows is identifying those factors that have the power to change things for the better, as well as identifying a strategy that would enable practical activation of those factors in order to decrease gender inequality based on stereotypes, prejudice, faulty legislation or neglect on the part of the community. There is also the need to consider how this issue could garner adequate support through educational institutions and processes.

Head Researcher
Amela Bašić, Jug Bogdana 84, Banja Luka, basic@teol.net

Associates:
Dijana Đurić, Slatinska 11, Banja Luka, 051 385 444
Milena Pašić, Petra Bojovića 1a, Banja Luka, 065 561 017

89. AFFIRMING ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA BY IDENTIFYING SOCIAL GROUPS AND THEIR PREDISPOSITIONS

Project Purpose:

The purpose of the project is to research and identify the level of predisposition to entrepreneurship among social groups. The research result would help affirm entrepreneurship and promote an enterprising spirit.

Questions Raised by the Project

The Project deals with issues of the cultural relationship of the population towards the phenomenon of entrepreneurship. It is known that as opposed to countries with long traditions of free market capitalism,  in former socialist countries and countries in transition, the levels of predisposition towards establishing private companies and commercialising enterprising ideas are low even when provided with relatively favourable financial preconditions. To what extent is this a cultural phenomenon, i.e. a question of mentality? Are there negative perceptions about entrepreneurship and private initiative? Is the evident presence of corruption in society an obstacle to affirming entrepreneurship and private initiative? Are there certain social groups that are particularly interested in entrepreneurship and how could an enterprising spirit be stimulated in Bosnia and Herzegovina? These are the framework questions raised by the project.

Project Aims

Gather information that will enable targeted promotion of entrepreneurship adapted to specific groups of the population.
Provide development strategies and programmes for the promotion of entrepreneurship with information and scientific analyses to help construct targeted messages for target groups of the population (young people, the rural population, women, etc.) and to address concrete problems related to the entrepreneurial activities of those specific population groups.
Research which groups can provide fertile ground for affirming the spirit of entrepreneurship.
Research the opportunities and threats for the affirmation of entrepreneurship among the target groups.
Raise awareness about the problem of creating and developing entrepreneurship and an enterprising spirit. A scientific contribution to academic and project-based research, as well as to the affirmation of entrepreneurship.

Researchers
Goran Dostić, Project Leader gdostic@yahoo.ca
Reuf Bajrović, rbajrovic@gmail.com
Sanel Huskić, sanel.huskic@gmail.com
Munira Šestić munira.sestic@efsa.unsa.ba

88. EDUCATION MODELS FOR PROFESSIONAL PREQUALIFICATION WITH A FOCUS ON WOMEN

Project Purpose:

The general intention is to raise awareness about the importance of computer skills and lifelong learning among the target group (women between the ages of 35 and 50) for the purpose of their professional development, prequalification and better results in the job market in Bosnia and Herzegovina at the present time.
In order to reduce emotional and social tensions in the family and in society that contribute to the generally poor position of women, also aggravated by the consequences of war and the isolation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is necessary to launch the process of additional education or prequalification that would allow currently unemployed women to join contemporary employment trends.
The project will encompass the Tuzla Canton region and focus on the target group on the job market. We believe this population to be critical, because our previous research conducted from 2003 to 2007 in the Tuzla Canton indicated that the majority of the unemployed were women between the ages of 35 and 55 and with secondary school and higher education degrees (45%).
In order to improve the current situation for the target group and in order to introduce an innovative approach to solving the "acute" problem of our society, we developed cooperation between the NGO and private sector to carry out this project.

Questions Raised by the Project

The realisation of this project raises the following questions:
How large is the target group on the labour market?
Surveying interest for taking additional education courses in computer skills.
Level of self-awareness among the target group, i.e. their belief that they can influence the solution to their problems in society and thus improve their status in the micro and macro environment.
We expect that our activities will help improve the current situation in the local communities and aid the target group in finding jobs and being reintegrated into the working community.

Project Aims

The aims we plan to realise are:
- raising awareness (education) about the importance of informal education for the purposes of additional qualification and prequalification of the target group;
- raising awareness about women's potentials and general activities, as well as their enterprise in the economic sphere;
- raising awareness about the equality of women in the domain of economics and self-sustainable business;
- equality in education, employment and labour-related rights;
- financial and social security;
- non-discrimination of women from the target group on any grounds;
- telecommuting (using Internet technologies to access corporate services – virtual private networking, regardless of the location of the employee 24x7);
- the importance of the Internet and e-commerce (online trading) in business;
- an innovative approach of joint efforts by the NGO and private sector to advance Bosnia and Herzegovina towards the European Union;
- achieving the best interest in all activities concerning the target population.
Project Leader:
Osman Džindo, 061 103 370, osman.dzindo@comnet.ba
Associates:
Nedžad Osmić, 061 185 262
Denis Živčić, 061 300 785, comnet@comnet.ba
Fahrudin Gološ, 062 123 122, comnet@comnet.ba

87. DEVELOPING ORGANIC FOOD PRODUCTION IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Purpose:

The purpose of the project is to raise awareness about organic food production and the application of knowledge in preserving natural resources and opting for sustainable activities and production. The research results from the village areas of the Petrovo municipality will serve as a good example for the population of other Bosnian-Herzegovinian municipalities as well.

Questions Raised by the Study

The questions raised by the study are primarily related to the existing knowledge of the land potential of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well the degree of its adequate use. The study reviews modes of agricultural production in the world and whether organic food production is an option for Bosnia and Herzegovina as a sustainable mode of production. It also considers how educated farmers are about sustainable modes of production.

Project Duration:
1 October 2006 31 March 2008

Head Researcher:
Sabina Begić, S. Mitrovića 5, s. 10, 75000 Tuzla, 062 293 136;  035 760 870

Associates:
Milena Todorović and Marin Kvaternik
Health Protection Institute of RS
Regional Institute in Doboj
tel. 053/ 228-320, 227-965
Ozren Petković, B.Sc. in Agricutlure
Association of Producers in Agriculture „Poljoprtivrednik 04" Petrovo
Kakmuž bb, Petrovo
Tel: 053/ 260-070

86. PRESERVING SUB-MEDITERRANEAN VARIETIES OF FRUIT CULTURES AS A PRECONDITION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SOUTH OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Project Purpose:

The project "Preserving sub-Mediterranean Varieties of Fruit Cultures as a Precondition for the Development of the South of Bosnia and Herzegovina" will be implemented at 4 locations of sub-Mediterranean Herzegovina: one in the Stolac area, one in the vicinity of Trebinje, on in the area of Mostar and one in the area of Vitina. Locating the project in four different locations of sub-Mediterranean Herzegovina achieves the necessary precondition for comparing production results of seedling material and the fruits of figs, pomegranates and kiwi.
In the past few centuries (mainly with the coming of the Ottoman Empire), seedlings (and segments of the underground and over-ground part of the plant that produced the seedling) of fig, pomegranate and kiwi came to Bosnia and Herzegovina usually spontaneously and with little to no organisation. A number of stems justified the introduction and these varieties of fig and pomegranate have become domesticated. Kiwi appeared relatively late in Herzegovina in view of its specific climate and pedological conditions, but some varieties (especially HAYWORD) have proven adaptable to our ecological conditions. Since both in the past and in more recent times, there have been no instances of an organised and systematic association of known cultivators of fig and pomegranate, this project aims to make at least a humble contribution in this respect.
Questions Raised by the Project

The ultimate aim of this part of the project is to form a gen-bank of these fruit cultures as part of an extensive gen-bank of the sub-Mediterranean and Mediterranean European area. One of the more important reasons for implementing the project is the absence of a certified plant nursery for sub-Mediterranean fruit cultures.
Researchers:

Dr. sc Ahmed Džubur,
Agro-Mediterranean Faculty in Mostar
Ul. Midhat Hujdur Hujke bb. Mostar
e-mail: adzubur@unmo.ba
Dr. sc Đulsa Bajramović, Teaching Faculty in Mostaru
Dr. sc Ranko Popović, Agricultural Faculty in Istočno Sarajevo,
Dr. sc Marko Ivanković, Herzegovina-Neretva Canton Ministry of Agriculture
Zlatko Juklo, Agro-Mediterranean Faculty in Mostar
Project Duration:
1 October 2006 – 31 March 2008

85. RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS OF THE NEEDS AND POSITION OF RETURNEES TO THE MUNICIPALITIES OF VLASENICA AND BANOVIĆI

Project Purpose:

The main purpose of the project is to research the return of expelled and displaced persons in order to promote multiethnic communities, unity in diversity and the possibility of coexistence of all nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Research will be conducted in two municipalities—Vlasenica in Republika Srpska where the return of Bosniaks will be analysed, and Banovići in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina where the return of Serbs will be analysed. The research methodology will be identical in both municipalities. We plan to use methods of observation, survey and comparison.
The end result of the project will be a report offering recommendations for, among other things:sustainable return, promotion of peace, tolerance and mutual trust, and creating preconditions for a healthier and freer society in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Questions Raised by the Project:

The project seeks to establish dialogue between the returnees and local authorities, as well as different ethnic groups for the purpose of building trust and unity in diversity as an important precondition of constructing a peaceful future. Also, many questions will be raised such as: livelihood, education, cultural and religious needs, sustainable return, integration of returnee groups into the social life of local communities and promotion of human rights.
 

Head Researcher:
Bojan Golić; 065/428-771; bojan.golic@ads.gov.ba

Project Duration:
1 October 2006 to 31 March 2008

Associates:
Anđelka Dobrilović, 065 444 311, adobrilovic@yahoo.com.
Fajka Herić, 061 957 305, fajka_heric@hotmail.com.
Goran Đurić, 065/911-382, pretjerano@yahoo.com.

84. HUMAN RESOURCES – THE GREATEST COMPARATIVE ADVANTAGE OF BOSNIAN-HERZEGOVINIAN SOCIETY

Project Purpose:

-To survey the potentials of Bosnian-Herzegovinian society in terms of human resources such as: human demographic potential, human capital and social capital.
- to survey, using a representative sample, the network of higher education institutions, employment opportunities, brain-drain of young highly qualified professionals and other social trends neglected by official policy.
- to review the possibility of establishing social contacts and a social environment appropriate for such an approach- to propose measures, based on the research, for making positive steps forward and attracting the necessary attention of the public and responsible structures in the state.

Questions Raised by the Project

The research hypothesis is that Bosnia and Herzegovina lacks a system of planning social needs for human resources and that education and qualification are done on a haphazard basis—divided, as Bosnia and Herzegovina is itself territorially divided. There is no dynamic mobility of human resources in line with the real needs of society, and any mobility is relegated to individual endeavours, subjected to political influences, national divisions, nepotism, and has a strong effect on (not) starting or planning a family, all of which paves the way for a growing tendency among young professionals to emigrate from Bosnia and Herzegovina to economically developed Western countries. The lack of social recognition of professional abilities gives rise to various deformations of social relations and the position of the individual: insecurity, inability to plan a career, the lack of a middle class and a pronounced polarisation of society into the rich minority and the overwhelming majority living beneath the social minimum by all standards.  

Main Researcher:

Dželal Ibraković, PhD in Social Science, Assistant Lecturer at the Faculty of Political Science in Sarajevo in the subjects of Ethnology, Family Sociology and Social Ecology. He has published a number of papers and has been the leader or participant in a number of projects about the current reality of Bosnia and Herzegovina and its place in global tendencies and European integration. Tel.: +387 33 665 018 ibrakovic.dzelal@gmail.com

Associates:

Prof.Ivan Šijaković, Economic Faculty in Banja Luka, PhD in Social Sciences +387 51 430 010 isijakovic@yahoo.com
Prof.Hasan Zolić, Faculty of Political Science in Sarajevo, Statistician and Demographer +387 33 665 018, zolich @fpn.unsa.ba
Merima Čamo, doctoral candidate in the Sociology of Residential Areas at the Faculty of Political Science +387 33 665 018 merimacamo@hotmail.com
Muhamed Smajić, doctoral candidate in Security at the Faculty of Political Science smajic_m@hotmail.com
Aida Spahić, master's candidate in Social Capital and Ecology at the Faculty of Political Science  aspahic22@yahoo.com

83.THE ORGANISATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES FOR THE SELF-EMPLOYMENT OF YOUTH IN RURAL AREAS

Aim of the Project:
In most developed European countries the growth of small and medium businesses is very important for economic development. The development of small businesses is particularly important for the survival of people in rural settlements. The governments of these countries have made possible the urbanisation of rural areas and their populations economically viable through various legislative and, even more importantly, financial incentives. Continuing education of rural populations regarding various possibilities of self-employment through the organisation of small businesses has also been an important influence. However, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, not the least because of the recent war, the situation is extremely difficult. For all intents and purposes, rural settlements have been depleted of the able-bodied population capable of work. In search for a livelihood, the youth has emigrated either to larger urban centres or abroad. The main responsibility for this lies with representatives on all levels of government who still have no program or development strategy for agriculture, other segments of the economy in rural areas or the necessary infrastructure. In the rural areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina, there are significant resources for the development of agriculture. This is especially true of organic agriculture, which is increasingly valuable and in demand on the world market.
Research carried out during this project aims to contribute to raising awareness about the need and possibility of self-sustainable survival of populations in rural areas through the organisation of small businesses. By analysing existing small businesses in rural areas of the pilot region and on the basis of existing resources in the region, we will arrive at a method for creating two business plans for self-employment. This method will be useful in educating youth for starting up small businesses. The development of infrastructure in rural areas and higher rates of employment will create conditions similar to those in urban areas and will make possible not only survival but also the return of youth to rural areas.

Issues Raised by the Project:
How should the necessary urbanisation of rural areas be carried out?
How can the existing potentials in rural areas be used for the development of small businesses and for the employment of youth?
How to educate youth for starting up small businesses?
How to avert the emigration of youth from rural areas?
What measures should be taken by all levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina for the employment of youth and to encourage youth to stay in rural areas?

Main Researcher:
Zoran Petrović MA
Karađorđeva bb C-III, s 86
75400 Zvornik
tel: +387 65 963 651
e-mail: ozrenzorp@spinter.net

Partners:
Milenko Smiljanić MA, + 387 65 394 838, milenkos.74@spinter.net
Ajdina Hasanović, B.A. in Engineering + 38761 728721, ajdina.h@bih.net.ba
Daliborka Zarić, B.A. in Economics + 387 65 535 977

Duration of the Project:
01.10.2006-31.03.2008

82. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMMON CORE CURRICULA FOR THE NATIONAL GROUP OF SUBJECTS IN PRACTICE (IN SCHOOLS) WITH A FOCUS ON ENCOURAGING THE DEVELOPMENT OF CRITICAL THINKING IN STUDENTS

Aim of the Research:
There can be no place in our country for an education system that produces divisions and segregates children on the basis of ethnicity. Our education system must make it possible for all children to attend school together so that they can learn how to respect and appreciate the value of cultural diversity that makes our country unique.
The education system in primary and secondary schools must enable our children to live and work together in an ever-changing world. At present, the curricula in Bosnia and Herzegovina are overly burdened and our teaching methods need to be modernised since learning is often based simply on a mechanical transmission of a large amount of facts. All this must change. In the 21st century, education in Europe and the world demands critical thinking, creativity, problem solving skills, entrepreneurship and a mastery of new technologies.
The aim of this project is to show the great difference between what is written in textbooks, curricula and the common core subjects and the actual situation in the classrooms. The idea for this project arose from the need of the researchers—who in the past year have been working on the analysis of textbooks for the national group of subjects (financed by OSF BiH) for content that encourages integration and a positive attitude to multiculturalism and a multiethnic community—to see how the contents of textbooks are interpreted and if they have any real effect on creating an idea of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a multicultural and multiethnic community.

Issues Raised by the Project:
This research raises the following issues:
How do teachers approach the planned thematic modules?
How much time do teachers have for implementing the complete curriculum and how do they select content if there is a lack of time?
On the other hand, how to teachers and teachers’ councils deal with certain issues controversial for this region?
Do they explain to children that various points of view exist? If so, how? Are students left to rely solely on their textbooks?
How are textbooks selected for a subject (when there is more than one possible textbook from various authors and publishers)? Is this selection carried out at the level of the Education and Pedagogical Institute, the Canton, the school council or left to the discretion of the teacher?

Main Researcher:
Dženana Husremović, dzenana@promente.org

Partners:
Ajla Šišić,  ajla@promente.org
Esad Bratović,  eso@promente.org

81. THE EUROPEAN SHAPE OF CULTURAL DIFFERENCES: WOMEN IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA—BETWEEN PATRIARCHY AND EMANCIPATION

Aim of the Project:
The aim of this research is to study the position of women in Bosnia and Herzegovina today. Keeping in mind the present social, political and economic context, it also aims to consider the possibility of creating a context-specific feminism as a theoretical and practical basis for the emancipation of women all in order to improve the position of women in society. The research assumes a number of methodologies and an interdisciplinary approach. The research makes use of a number of methodologies including the use of a guided focus group and a critical analysis of the transcript from the group session, as well as a qualitative method based on a questionnaire and a sociological and psychological analysis of the questionnaires.

Issues Raised by the Project:
The research, apart from available publications and an overview of relevant texts from feminist theory, will also include:
•    exhaustive interviews with activists and feminists who deal with women's issues and a study of their motivation and their backgrounds as a way to map the environment that they come from and the specific goals that feminists deal with on a daily basis in their work with women in Bosnia and Herzegovina e.g. women victims of domestic violence, women whose rights have been violated, women victims of trafficking etc.
•    focus groups of women from Republika Srpska and the Federation from various social spheres, economic brackets, age groups and education levels We would ask women from this group about their backgrounds, status, ways of financing, habits, number of family members and motives for working in feminism and the specific problems that they face in their work.
•    research of women's identity on the basis of the questionnaire administered to a sample of women

After this research, which should be completed by December 2008, we hope to publish a monograph that can be used as a college textbook and will be a contribution to cultural and gender studies.

Main Researcher:
Danijela Majstorović, PhD, danijelam@teol.net, tel: 065 691 180

Members of the Research Team:
Vladimir Turjačanin, PhD, vladimirt@teol.net
Maja Mandić MA

80. IMPLEMENTATION OF ANNEX 7 OF THE DAYTON AGREEMENT WITH PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO ECONOMIC, SOCIO-EDUCATIONAL AND SECURITY ASPECTS  

Aim of the Project:
The aim of the project is to research, examine, identify and analyze all the factors that hinder and/or slow down the implementation of Annex 7 of the Dayton Peace Agreement.
The available data indicates that approximately 900 000 people have returned to their homes after being displaced during the war. The aim of this research is to show the determining factors for the sustainable return of refugees and displaced persons in Bosnia and Herzegovina, so that the responsible local and international institutions can take adequate measures and find lasting solutions.

Issues Raised by the Project:
The first issue relates to researching and identifying security challenges and threats (Although the security situation is significantly better, there are still cases of intimidation of "minority” returnees. The local police force, prosecutors and courts are often unable to bring to justice the perpetrators of ethnically motivated violence. In some parts of Republika Srpska, a returnee is ten times more likely to be the victim of a violent crime than a local Serb citizen. Even when the actual threat is small, the constant presence of suspected war criminals—especially if they hold a public office—sends a very clear message to potential returnees.)
The second issue relates to economic factors. (The depressed economy is part of the answer to this issue. In many municipalities, discrimination makes impossible the realisation of the full potential for return and threatens the sustainability of the already achieved return while encouraging those who have returned to create enclaves rather than to truly reintegrate. The gradual pressure of governmental bodies in Bosnia and Herzegovina to recognise the right to return property owned before the war is not adequately followed by their readiness to eliminate institutional discrimination faced by many "minority" returnees who are treated as second-class citizens. Although a high unemployment rate affects all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, returnees face the greatest problems, including illegal privatisation.)
The third issue concerns the sociological aspects that affect the return of refugees and displaced persons (The education system in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with three separate and politically loaded curricula, presents another problem that families with children often cite as one reason for not returning. Another reason for not returning is discrimination in securing public utilities, healthcare services and pensions.)  

Aims of the Project:
The aim of the project is to research, examine, identify and analyze all the factors that hinder and/or slow down the implementation of Annex 7 of the Dayton Peace Agreement. The research project will focus on three aspects: security, economy and education.

Duration of the Project:  
15 November 2007 – 15 December 2008

Main Researcher:
Name     Žuljević Aner
ID No.:     2705977150044
Home address:     Bafo bb
Work address:     USRC "Mithad Hujdur Hujka”
Home phone:     036 571 800
Work phone:     036 570 731
E-mail      aner.zuljevic@unmo.ba

Partners:
Name, nationality and date of birth     Lutvo Haznadarević, Bosnia and Herzegovina, 05 July 1968
ID No.:     0507968153150
Home address: Name and address of the organisation or institution, phone/fax/e-mail     Ulica VII br: 14, Mostar, 88000
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, "Džemal Bijedić” University of Mostar
Tel/fax: 036 571 258

Name, nationality and date of birth     Vladanka Madžar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, 30 April 1968
ID No.:     3004968158151
Home address:
Name and address of the organisation or institution, phone/fax/e-mail     Jovana Cvijića 31, Trebinje, 89101

Tel/fax: 059 226 359

79. THE PICKING, DRYING, PACKAGING AND SALE OF MEDICINAL PLANTS

Aim of the Project:
The aim of the project is to make use of the natural resources of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as to encourage the return of rural families to their pre-war homes and to enable them to sustain themselves there. The long-term aim of the project is to use education to protect the natural resources of Bosnia and Herzegovina from neglect and intentional destruction.

Issues Raised by the Project:
The project raises the issue of making use of the natural wealth that surrounds us but is not widely known. The region under study depends on the plant systems and types of plants. Experts would educate on the necessary quality of medicinal plants, the places they grow, as well as methods of picking, drying and processing for the market.

Aims of the Project:
The project follows a world trend of returning to nature, encouraging the preservation of nature, ecological balance and the need for healthy food. Certain herbs are by far more useful for humans than antibiotics and the future belongs to natural medicines—teas.

Duration of the Project:
The duration of the project is not finite. The project would develop, expand and improve as new medicinal plants and their products (oils, teas, ointments etc.) continue to be discovered.

Main Researcher:
Prof. Dr. Aleksandar Simić, B.A. in Mining Engineering, expert and scientific advisor
Tel: 053 227 119; 061 475 278
Email: aco.simic@doboj.net

Partners:
Vanja Jerinić, B.A. in Technical Engineering, Tel: 053 204 040; 065 204 159, Email: izgdoboj@teol.net
Milan Simić, MA in Biology, Tel: 053 221 766; 061 450 806
Drago Ćosić, B.A. in Technical Engineering – innovator, Tel: 061 795 961

78. EUROPEAN DEVELOPMENT EXPERIENCE AND HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN BOSNIAN-HERZEGOVINIAN COMPANIES

Aim of the Project:
The aim of the project is to show to the leaders and owners of Bosnian-Herzegovinian companies the importance of adequate human resource management. This includes suggested measures that would decrease expenditures in Bosnian-Herzegovinian companies resulting from hiring and firing workers.

Issues Raised by the Project:
The issues raised by the project concern the present situation in Bosnian-Herzegovinian companies regarding human resources, particularly:
what is the level of (dis)satisfaction of workers with their working environment, how much in terms of human resources is necessary for the company to function successfully, in what ways does the (dis)satisfaction of workers affect their productivity, the expenditures of the company and the success of the company in general, what is the importance of forging an adequate worker-employer relationship which eliminates the totalitarianism of supervisors over those being supervised, can Bosnian-Herzegovinian companies improve working conditions and lower expenditures for firing and hiring new workers by using adequate methods for hiring and training workers, socialisation and stimulation.

Aims of the Project:
Taking stock of the present situation in Bosnian-Herzegovinian companies—the intake and removal of staff (human resources)  
Taking stock of the consequences of a constant intake and removal of staff (human resources) in Bosnian-Herzegovinian companies
Education of owners and leaders in companies about the importance of human resource management
Enabling youth to keep their jobs and to be satisfied with the worker-employer relationship through the education of employers
Education of young businessmen who see this project as an opportunity to set up consulting firms that will offer their services to companies facing the problem of staff fluctuations

Duration of the Project:
18 (eighteen months)

Main Researcher:
Kovačević Valdet, 061/280 576, valdet.k@hotmail.com, 75 300 Lukavac-Prokosovici 244

Partners:
Husagić Amir, 062/123 772, a.husagić@bih.net.ba, 75 300 Lipnica, Tuzla, Mije Keroševića Guje 1
Olivera Janković, 065/648 010, olivera-jr@hotmail.com , 76100 Brčko, Jovana Jovanovića Zmaja 3
Vareškić Milica, 061/193 094, mimamla@teol.net , 76 100 Brčko, Mladena Maglova broj 9

77. DEVELOPMENT OF A SYSTEM OF QUALITY CONTROL FOR FOOD IN THE UNSKO-SANSKI CANTON AND THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THAT MODEL IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Project Purpose:
The project aims to asses the current state of the system for the quality control of food in the Unsko-Sanski Canton. It is necessary to evaluate the pros and cons of the existing quality control system and to employ proper measures to overcome flaws. The importance of this project lies in the creation of testing and calibrating laboratories for accreditation use in accordance with ISO 17025 where it would be possible to carry out basic analysis, specialised analysis and specialised analysis with the possibility of granting international certificates.
Questions Raised by the Project:
What is the current state of the quality control system in the Unsko-Sanski Canton? What are the flaws of the existing system? What measures need to be taken to improve the quality control system for food in the interest of citizens? Is the existing quality control system in accordance with current EU legislature? What measures need to be taken for existing laboratories to be accredited in accordance with ISO 17025?
Project Aims:
The aim of this project is to develop an appropriate and adequate system of quality control for food guaranteeing the protection of the health of citizens and the interest of consumers while taking into consideration the various methods of procuring food, including traditional commodities, and securing the efficient functioning of the internal market. In this way we would ascertain a unified system of principles and standards and with the use of a stronger scientific base, an efficient organisational structure and procedures that will be the basis for decision making for questions of food quality and health standards. The importance of this project lies in the creation of testing and calibrating laboratories for accreditation use in accordance with ISO 17025.
Project Duration:
The project will last 20 months, i.e. from 3 September 2007 to 3 May 2009.
Researchers:
Halid Makić (Main Researcher)
Ul. Islamovac bb, 77000 Bihać
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać, Ul. Kulina bana 2 Bihać
tel. 037 228 059  fax 037 228 057
halid_btf@yahoo.com
Nejra Džankić
Ozimice II b.11, 77000 Bihać
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać, Ul. Kulina bana 2, Bihać
037 228 274  228 059  fax 037 228 057
nejra_dzankic@yahoo.com

Jasmina Ibrahimpašić
Ul. Himze Polovine bb, 77000 Bihać
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać, Ul. Kulina bana 2 Bihać
tel. 037 228 274 / 228 059  fax 037 228 057
jasmina.ipasic@gmail.com
Mirsad Veladžić
Ul. Harmani H/15  77000 Bihać
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać,  
Ul. Kulina bana 2, Bihać
037 228 274  228 059  fax 037 228 057
mveladzic@yahoo.com
Azra Bećiraj
Ul. Dobrih bošnjana bb
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać, Ul. Kulina bana 2 Bihać
tel. 037 228 059  fax 037 228 057
azra_bakrac_beciraj@yahoo.com
Aida Džaferović
Ul. Tale Ličanina br.23,  77000 Bihać
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać,  
Ul. Kulina bana 2, Bihać
tel. 037 228 059  fax 037 228 057
aida.dz_btf@yahoo.com
Samira Dedić
Ul. Unska bb,  77000 Bihać
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać,  
Ul. Kulina bana 2, Bihać
tel. 037 228 059  fax 037 228 057.

Mejra Bektašević
Ul.Ibn Sinaa br.7,  77000 Bihać
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać,  
Ul. Kulina bana 2, Bihać
tel. 037 228 059  fax 037 228 057
hmm@bih.net.ba

76. DIVERSITY AND IDENTIFICATION OF POPULATIONS FOR THE CONSERVATION OF FOREST TREES IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: KEY STUDY OF THE QUERCUS X SCHNEIDERI VIER HYBRID OAK  

Project Purpose:
Programs for the conservation of natural resources are the main component of regional, national and international policies for battling the loss of biological diversity at the local and global levels. Although Bosnia and Herzegovina boasts high levels of biodiversity within a relatively small space, it does not have a generally agreed upon strategy for the conservation of natural resources. Therefore, it is not surprising that there are a relatively large number of under researched biological entities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The flora of southern Herzegovina justifies calling this area a "hot spot” of biological diversity of Mediterranean proportions. During the shift from glacial to interglacial periods, this area was an important place of refuge for many plant species of the Balkans.
Conservation measures for clearly "defined” biological entities (populations and species) are not difficult to carry out. It is much more difficult to deal with biologically "undefined” entities or taxonomic complex groups (Ennos et al. 2005) that can not be identified and classified within defined biological entities.  
A typical example of a taxonomic complex group is the Schneider's Oak also known as Quercus schneideri Vierh, a hybrid of the Quercus cerris L. oak and the Quercus trojana Webb. oak. It was registered and described for the first time in southeast Herzegovina in 1912. Although, from time to time, it was registered during biological research in that part of our country, the international scientific community has been denied biological knowledge of this species. The main threats to this biological entity, that could result in its loss, are frequent summer fires in the area that destroy biotopes of the oak, uncontrolled cutting down of the oak for various reasons (need for firewood, clearing space for vineyards and settlements), and introgressive hybridisation resulting in the genetic assimilation of this taxon from parent species which implies the loss of the genotype/phenotype of the hybrid oak in question. Therefore, in order to preclude the possibility of extinction in the future, it is necessary to carry out an exact analysis and identification of this biological entity and to conserve this species and the process that makes this species possible.
Questions Raised by the Project:
Strategies for the conservation of natural resources are often problematic in view of the local economy. Conservation programs limit the use of a specific resource resulting in a negative response from the local population when no compensatory measures are undertaken. Therefore, we are faced with a situation where the interests of the scientific community, which wishes to protect natural heritage for future generations even at the expense of the local population, conflict with the needs of that population. This emphasises the following problems: the scientific validity of the Quercus x schneideribiological entity in the natural heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the efficiency of the suggested conservation measures for the Quercus x schneideri oak if there is no generally accepted policy for halting the loss of biological diversity in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the readiness of the local and scientific communities to solve this problem.
Project Aims:
Considering that the subject of the project is the conservation of insufficiently known biological entities that come into being through a complex biological process, the main aims are an exact identification and scientific verification of the Quercus x schneideri complex in the area where this species was first described, an analysis of the risks faced by this species and ascertaining its quantity. Secondary aims include the formulation of suggested conservation measures and actions for individual generations of hybrids as well as for the process that brings them into existence since they are an important part of our natural heritage and can be potentially useful in the future.
Project Duration:
15 months
Main Researcher:
Faruk Bogunić
Aleja Lipa 55, Općina Novo Sarajevo
Cell phone: 00 387 (0)61 326 147
Work phone: 00 387 33 614 003
Fax: 00 387 33 611 349
e-mail: faruk_bogunic@yahoo.com
Partners:
Adaleta Durmić-Pašić
Šefika Dorića 24, Općina Novi Grad
Cell phone: 00 387 (0)61 100 920
Home phone: 00 387 33 543 815
Work phone: 00 387 33 290 926
Fax: 00 387 33 442 891
e-mail: adurmic@yahoo.com
Neđad Bašić
Senada Mandića Dende 1/IV, 71 000 Sarajevo, Novi Grad
Cell phone: 00 387 (0)61 468 371
Home phone: 00 387 33 471 583
Work phone: 00 387 33 614 003
Fax: 00 387 33 611 349
e-mail: nbasic@scientist.com

75. EVALUATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF THE QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (QMS) FOR THE CURRICULA OF INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION

Project Objectives:
The Biotechnical Faculty, an institution of higher learning and part of the Bihać University, began the implementation of the Bologna Declaration in the 2006/07 school year. As well as being an institution of higher education, the Biotechnical Faculty is an institution for scientific research.    Taking into consideration the changes in the institutional functioning that need to be made to satisfy the principles of Bologna and with the aim of verifying  the Faculty and accrediting its staff, it is necessary to:
reconstruct the Faculty as an institution of higher learning by introducing the ISO 9001:2001/ENQA standards
create conditions for the functioning of a contemporary institution of higher learning
enrich student activities in regards to all forms of teaching and internal IT communication  
Questions Raised by the Project:
Assessing the existing situation at the Biotechnical Faculty and the foundations for the implementation of the project.
Raising consciousness regarding organisation for all staff at the Faculty in order to define new roles and tasks that will make possible the success of the project.
A possible sharing of experience and knowledge regarding quality management processes with other institutions of higher learning that have successfully carried out tasks set by the Bologna Process.

Project Aims:
Quality management in accordance with the Bologna Process
Establishing functions, conditions, mobility and exchange of knowledge and experience within and without the institution of higher learning
Education and activities for all Faculty staff through the setting of tasks
Harmonizing the legislative norms regarding the first and second cycles of study with the development of internal mechanisms and programs  
Creating conditions for the accreditation of the Faculty
Project Duration:
A year from the official start date.
Main Researcher:
Azra Bećiraj, Bosna i Hercegovina, 2 January 1967
Ul. Dobrih bošnjana bb
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać, Ul. Kulina bana 2 Bihać
tel 037 228 059 fax 037 228 057
azra_bakrac_beciraj@yahoo.com
Other Researchers:
Ifet Šišić, Bosna i Hercegovina, 13 May 1957
Ul.Sarajevska  3, Bužim
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać, Ul. Kulina bana 2 Bihać
tel. 037 228 059 fax 037 228 057
sisic_btf@yahoo.com
Salim Ibrahimefendić, Bosnia and Herzegovina, 19 June 1936
Ul. Maglaj bb, Maglaj
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać, Ul. Kulina bana 2 Bihać
tel. 037 228 059 fax 037 228 057
salim_btf@yahoo.com
Jasmina Ibrahimpašić, Bosnia and Herzegovina, 21 April 1970
Ul. Himze Polovine bb,  77000 Bihac
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać, Ul. Kulina bana 2 Bihać
tel. 037 228 274 / 228 059  fax 037 228 057
jasmina.ipasic@gmail.com
Halid Makić, Bosnia and Herzegovina, 1 March 1968
Ul. Islamovac bb, 77000 Bihac
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać, Ul. Kulina bana 2 Bihać
tel. 037 228 059  fax 037 228 057
halid_btf@yahoo.com
Zaim Kahrić, Bosnia and Herzegovina, 20 September 1966
Ul. Brčanska 206, Bihać
Biotechnical Faculty, University of Bihać, Ul. Kulina bana 2 Bihać
tel. 037 228 059  fax 037 228 057
zaim_sinovi@yahoo.com

74. ETHNIC, NATIONAL AND EUROPEAN IDENTITY OF CITIZENS OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Project Objectives:
A total and exact definition of the nature of the ethnic, national and European identity of the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina will indicate the necessary direction to follow for the strengthening of their European identity while at the same time contributing to the study of the theory of group identity, group affiliation and the ascribing of identity through group belonging. For the good of general progress, European identity should be emphasised above identities that originate from belonging to smaller communities that occupy a lower level of the hierarchical ladder of various group affiliations.
Abstract
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the ethic group that an individual belongs to plays the dominant role in his or her development (Čereklija, Turjačanin, 2002a; Turjačanin et al, 2002). This brings about the fragmentation of concepts and instances that should exist within a state with the result of the dominant influence being ethnic rather than national identity.  Considering that the main aim of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a state is inclusion in the EU, it is clear that even national identity should, in some aspects of life, make way for European identity.  Therefore, there is a huge gap that must be bridged in order to improve the state itself and to join the already existing intergration. For this reason, the main concern of this project is to study the existing relationship between different types of identity (based on belonging or a wish to belong to certain groups) and to ascertain how the emphasis can be placed on European identity and the directions it leads in without losing track of the values and orientations provided by ethnic or national identity. Also, attention is given to a number of psychological constructs that are closely tied to the studied identities and group affiliations (collective and individual orientation, locus of control, conformism, family ties, religion and authority).
Questions Raised by the Project:
The results of the project raise a number of practical questions. Foremost among them is how identities based on belonging to a group can be harmonised in such a way to make them not exclusive but rather to enrich the social life of the individual in question. Practically, this requires a consideration of how the development of group identity should be treated in the educational process. Finally, it also raises the question of opening the minds of citizens to identities that go beyond Bosnia and Herzegovina and that seem, for the time being, to hold the most promise.
Project Duration: 1 December 2006 – 31 May 2008
Main Researcher:
Đorđe Čekrlija, MA
Senior Assistant for Psychometrics and Personality Psychology
Psychology Department
Faculty of Philosophy, Banja Luka
djopsi@yahoo.com

73. THE UNIVERSITY IN MOSTAR AS A GENERATOR OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SOUTH OF BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA

Project Purpose, Aim and Special Aims
"Džemal Bijedić” University was forced to abandon its pre-war location at the beginning of the war and adapted to the specific circumstances by continuing to carry out its education activities at different locations. After the war, the University was given a temporary space and the minimum of facilities necessary for teaching at the five institutions of higher learning that comprise it. With considerable effort and sacrifice, three more Faculties and a number of smaller research institutions, integral parts of the faculties, were established. Also, a solid basis for teaching was formed. However, the development of its institutions and the University as a whole was mainly based on the ad hoc initiatives of individuals or institutions producing less than optimal results.
Given the current political and economic conditions, the University is at a crossroads. One of the foremost projects that could yield successful results shares the aim of this project and concerns the education of experts for the implementation of European quality standards and practices of certification.
Questions Raised by the Project:
Given the condition of education in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is it possible to develop a system of education for standardisation and certification of goods for businesses from the same area as the University?
In what ways can this type of education system be harmonised with Bologna principles?
Is it necessary to stabilise cooperation in the field of education and research on EU projects with partner education institutions in Europe?
Is it necessary to increase the engagement of teaching staff for support to development in the area through research and development projects?
Is it possible to establish a lasting cooperation of high quality with non-governmental organisations?
Expected Results
Practical and efficient education and research will contribute to the economic and social development of this area in particular and of Bosnia and Herzegovina in general.
Project Phases
- Defining the target group
- Defining the development stages
- Formulating strategies and techniques for the development study
- Accomplishment of the strategic direction
Target Groups
In business: engineers, economists, lawyers and other experts needed by businesses that aspire to  market their products or offer their services on the European market (including Bosnia and Herzegovina, a part of it)  In the civil sector: experts in education, health, invalid-pension and other organisations must standardise who must certify and accredit their activities; In the state administration:  experts who need to be familiar with EU legislature for standardisation, certification and accreditation and must implement them in state institutions
Research Schedule
The first cycle of the project "The University in Mostar as a Generator of the Development of the South of Bosnia-Herzegovina” would last 18 months and would include a study of European standards and CE accreditation both of which are very much needed for business.

Duration of the Research:
1 December 2006 to 31 May 2008
Main Researcher
Prof. Dr. Sead Pašić
e-mail: sead.pasic@unmo.ba
tel: 036 571 315
fax: 036 570 032
Researchers
Prof. Dr. Sead Pašić, project leader and in charge of education and research development in technical sciences
Prof. Dr. Murat Prašo, member of the project team
Assistant Lecturer Ibro Popić, member of the project team and in charge of education and research development in the humanities
Senior Assistant  Nina Bijedić MA, researcher for natural sciences
Student Alim Abazovic, technical secretary for the project team and coordinator for student issues

72. THE IMAGE OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA AND STUDENTS AT BOSNIAN-HERZEGOVINIAN UNIVERSITIES

Project Objectives:
To study the denotative and connotative components of the internal image of Bosnia and Herzegovina among students at three universities: University of Mostar, University of Banja Luka and University of Tuzla. Our initial hypothesis is that students with different ethnic backgrounds do not differ significantly in their ideas on what constitutes an ideal state, the kind of state they would like to live in, with what kind of state they identify and whose success in various areas (sport, culture, business) would bring them joy. Rather, the difference lies in the connotations of the image, a result of complex political, ideological, historical, cultural and communicational factors.
The research will be carried out in two steps. The first step concerns the study of the denotative image of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We will ascertain what students at the University of Tuzla, University of Mostar and University of Banja Luka think are the characteristics of an ideal state (of the homeland in general). We will conduct interviews with a hundred randomly selected students at each of the aforementioned universities asking them to name ten desirable characteristics of the state that they would like to live in (without naming the state itself). On the basis of the most frequent answers (given by students at all three of the universities) we will design an instrument for measuring the image of Bosnia and Herzegovina (semantic differential). The second step will consist of a questionnaire concerning the connotative aspects of that image administered to 500 randomly selected students at each of the universities. Following this, we will make a comparative analysis of the preferences of individual research groups in order to ascertain the actual potential for mutual understanding. We assume that the differences in opinion regarding Bosnia and Herzegovina among students at Bosnian-Herzegovinian universities have developed from the phase of aggressive confrontation during the pre-war and war period into a phase of convergence and that we are on the threshold of a new integration achievable through planned public communication of state structures.  


Questions Raised by the Project:
- Is it possible to change the external image of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the way that others (potential investors, tourists, friends) perceive us, if there is no agreement between the three ethnic groups about Bosnia and Herzegovina as a political space (if the internal image is negative)?
- Is it possible to create an integrated internal image of Bosnia and Herzegovina if this integration must occur first on a symbolic plane i.e. on the level of public communication, primarily through mass media, considering the current division of the Bosnian-Herzegovinian communication community and its fragmentation into ethnic communication sub-communities?
- Who is capable of sponsoring and managing the process of public communication directed towards the establishment of a unified internal image and is it possible to expect this given the current state of Bosnian-Herzegovinian society? Are we justified in thinking that such an integration may occur first and foremost among the student population?
- Can classic communication media be used for the creation (reintegration) of a new internal image of Bosnia and Herzegovina and what responsibilities are held by the public broadcast services in this regard?

Project Duration:
1 October 2006 – 31 March 2008

Main Researcher:
Dr. Najil Kurtić, Part-time Professor, Kula 64, Tuzla;
e-mail: Najil.kurtic@untz.ba

Institution:
University of Tuzla, Faculty of Philosophy
Research Team:
Dr. Zoran Tomić,  Vedada Baraković MA,  Ljubomir Zuber MA

71. INTRODUCTION OF A DISTANCE LEARNING SYSTEM AT FACULTIES OF THE "DŽEMAL BIJEDIĆ” UNIVERSITY IN MOSTAR
Project Purpose:
One of the definitions of distance learning is: "Distance learning is a system and process connecting students with distributed education resources.” As part of this project, a pilot program of a distance learning system was implemented at a number of Faculties of the "Džemal Bijedić” University in Mostar, during the summer semester of the 2006/07 school year. The system was introduced for subjects taught at those Faculties by members of the project team. The purpose of this project is to detect and solve all problems that might occur in the distance learning system, as well as to ascertain the possibility of introducing this system for all subjects at the Faculties and later at the entire University. This is made possible by implementing simultaneously the classic system of learning and the distance learning system and working in close contact with the students.
The main hypothesis (assumption) is that the distance learning system can be introduced at our universities using the existing staff. We expect that this would make possible the return of students from areas that before the war gravitated towards Mostar, as an university centre. First and foremost, this refers to students from eastern Herzegovina, today part of the Republic of Srpska. Also, we assume that this will enable students from various parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region to study at Mostar's Faculties without the need of having permanent residence there, thus greatly decreasing their expenses.
This project is an effort to introduce contemporary forms of education at local universities.
Questions Raised by the Project:
Given the conditions that our universities function under, is it possible to establish a contemporary distance learning system?
Are students able to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities when course materials, consultations and everything else excluding the exam is disseminated and conducted over the World Wide Web?
Can distance learning be introduced with the existing staff and resources or is it necessary to make a larger investment into facilities, staff etc.?
Can the distance learning system in use at one faculty be successfully put into practice at another?
Expected Results
It is expected that the project will identify all the problems that occur with the introduction of distance learning system. We assume that these problems could be overcome with the existing staff and the necessary resources and that distance learning can be introduced without forming special centres for distance learning employing new staff, demanding new resources, facilities etc.
Also, we expect that the experience will be useful later for other subjects and faculties i.e. that the distance learning system will be offered as a possibility for incoming students.
Project Duration:
1 October 2006 to 31 March 2008
Project Leader
Assistant Lecturer Dragi Tiro
e-mail: dragi.tiro@yahoo.com
tel. 036 571 258
Researchers
Assistant Lecturer Dragi Tiro – Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, "Džemal Bijedić”  University
Assistant Lecturer Elvir Zlomušica – Faculty of Mediterranean Agriculture, "Džemal Bijedić” University
Senad Rahimić, MA – Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, "Džemal Bijedić”  University
Rašid  Hadžović, MA – Faculty of Civil Engineering, "Džemal Bijedić” University
Jasmin Azemović – Faculty of Information Technology, "Džemal Bijedić” University
Elmir Čatrnja – Faculty of Pedagogy, "Džemal Bijedić” University

70. STARTING UP THE PRODUCTION OF BIODIESEL FOR THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Project Purpose:
Increased production of oil seed rape in Bosnia and Herzegovina with the introduction of the newest technological advancements. Followed by the production of biodiesel from oil seed rape with the expansion of the crop rotation of field crops. This will also increase and benefit primary field crops (corn and wheat).
Questions Raised by the Project:
The rising price of fossil fuels and the problems that arise from an increased consumption of fossil fuels and their dwindling. The rising price of petrol and the increasing pollution of the environment and the greenhouse effect. An increased production of oil seed rape will lead to an increase in the production and consumption of biodiesel which, in turn, will benefit the environment. This will also alleviate the shortage of fuel, since biodiesel is produced from renewable sources.  
Main Researcher:
Prof. Dr. Jovan Kondić, scientific advisor
Banja Luka, Petra Rađenovića 19
work phone 051 303 112, home phone 051 303 709, cell phone 065 920 973
E-mail: polj.institut.bl@blic.net
Project Duration:
1 October 2006 to 31 March 2008
Research Team:
Prof. Dr. Jovan Kondić, Head of the Project
Dr. Radovan Marinković, scientific advisor
Sonja Dragojević, lab assistant
Stevo Mitrović, expert advisor
Ševalj Suljkanović MA, expert advisor
Aleksandar Duvnjak, expert advisor

69. EDUCATION OF EDUCATORS (PARENTS AND TEACHERS) AS LEADING FACTORS IN THE PREVENTION OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE, DRUG ABUSE, SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES – STDs AMONG ADOLESCENTS

Project Purpose
The purpose of the project is to introduce educators (parents and teachers) to:
The characteristics of adolescence/puberty with all its psychological and physical features.
Real facts about psychotropic substances, drug abuse and other addictive behaviours (tobacco, alcohol).
Adolescent sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases STDs and the risks of contracting STDs.
To increase the motivation of educators (parents and teachers) for more active participation in the family and community with the aim of providing the precondition for a healthy and safe future in high-risk conditions predominant in post-war Bosnian-Herzegovinian society.
Questions Raised by the Project
How much do educators (parents and teachers) know about psycho-active substances, drug abuse and other forms of substance abuse (tobacco, alcohol), as well as adolescent sexuality and sexually transmitted diseases.
To what extent are the social status and parents' family situation objective risk factors in directing adolescents towards substance abuse, promiscuity and sexually transmitted diseases – STDs.
Modes of communication between educators (parents and teachers) and adolescents about the topics of drug abuse, substance abuse and addiction (tobacco, alcohol), as well as the adolescents' sexuality and sexually transmitted diseases – STDs.
What do adolescents expect from educators (parents and teachers) with respect to the above topics.
Project Duration
1 December 2006 – 31 May 2008
Head Researcher
Dr Jasmina Begić-Rahić Dermatologist/ Venereologist
Dermatology-Venerology Clinic
Clinical Centre of the University in Sarajevo
Sarajevo, Bosna i Hercegovina
e-mail: jasminarahic@yahoo.com
Other Project Participants
Dr sci Hana Korać
Prof. Naima Arslanagić
Prof. Boro ?ukanović

68. TOPIC: FORMATION OF MAIN AND COLLECTION PLANTATIONS OF POMEGRANATE AND FIG

Project Purpose
The project "Formation of main and collection plantations of pomegranates and fig in order to introduce new cultivars, maintain the domesticated Bosnian-Herzegovinian sorts and the mass reproduction of perspective cultivars" will be implemented in 4 localities of sub-Mediterranean Herzegovina, two of which are in the Stolac area, one in the vicinity of Trebinje and one in the area of Ljubuški. Three localities of different ecologic (climate and pedological) characteristics are necessary to begin the process of introducing fruits and wines.
There are a number of reasons for realising this project. The most important is the lack of certified plant nurseries of pomegranate and fig that would enable strong incentives to found commercial plantations of these fruit cultures.
The lack of an introduction process disabled introducing pomegranate and fig cultivars discovered and verified by official sort lists of producer countries in the past decade into Bosnian-Herzegovinian sorts.
Planting material is a very important factor for successful and profitable fruit production. In order to achieve the most important goals—to prepare the seedlings, have them grow, give fruit early and regularly, give high-quality fruit, have them be durable and resistant to disease and pests—they must be produced from healthy, selected and controlled backgrounds and sorts.
The production of fruit seedlings is done by generative and vegetative methods, by sowing seeds, accumulation, grafting, budding, graft stubs, grafting scions, vegetative rootstock, reviving graft stubs and micro reproduction.
The generative method is used to produce stock, while vegetative reproduction enables identical offspring, mass production of planting material, earlier fruit, regular fruit, and high-quality fruit.  
Reproduction by mature woody scions is the most frequent method of reproduction of fig and pomegranate in the world and locally. It enables a pronounced capability of reparation, where the various plant organs (roots and twigs) form adventitious roots in a favourable substratum. This ability is conditioned by the presence of a group of specific parenchymal divisible cells usually called the start of adventitious roots.
Questions Raised by the Project
It has been proven in practice that fig shoots can be revived, but exogenous application of synthetic phyto-hormonal matter considerably raises the percentage of revived shoots and of stronger and wider root systems.
In transplantation production of fig and pomegranate seedlings from one-year shoots, the considerable success achieved by using synthetic phyto-hormonal matter of indolebutyric acid (IBA) and naphtalic acetic acid (NAA) in various concentrations is of substantial importance.
The possibilities of saving on main starting material, labour and the security of production by this method has been attracting increasing numbers of researchers in the world, and locally, people are more and more interested to explore this method.
Questions to be focused on:
- Preserving the domesticated genofund of fruits (fig and pomegranate) in order to save them from extinction;
- Forming a main plantation of selected fig and pomegranate sorts for the purpose of mass production of planting material;
- Since plant nursery production is highly profitable, the project also aims to ensure conditions of stable livelihoods for a certain number of unemployed returnees;
- Research of the effect of phyto-hormonal matter on the process of reviving mature cuttings of fig and pomegranate;
Main Researcher:
Ahmed Džubur, Kanjina 2a, Mostar

Duration:
1 December 2004 – 31 March 2006

Institution:
Džemal Bijedić University in Mostar, Agro-Mediterranean Faculty
Research Team:
Amer Medar, Ragib Dizdar, Ranko Popović