Insights from the Mobility Matters event in Mostar

Mobility Matters, a local event hosted by the University of Mostar in cooperation with WBAA, highlighted Erasmus+ opportunities and sparked a wave of new interest in WBAA and international mobility.

The Faculty of Agriculture and Food Technology, University of Mostar, in collaboration with the Western Balkans Alumni Association (WBAA), hosted the local event “Mobility Matters – Study, Work, Connect” on 19 September 2025 in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The event was organised by Assoc. Prof. Anita Lalić, a WBAA member since 2019, who led the initiative on behalf of both WBAA and her faculty. The event aimed to showcase Erasmus+ opportunities, promote mobility among students and staff, and highlight the impact of regional and international cooperation.

Diverse voices, inspiring stories

The programme featured a warm musical welcome performed by Ivana Jukić, setting a positive and engaging tone for the day. This was followed by a welcome speech by Assoc. Prof. Anita Lalić, speaking on behalf of both the Faculty and WBAA.

Contributions followed from Ana Šuman, who shared insights into international cooperation at the university level, and Dr Adrijana Filipović, who presented the faculty’s Erasmus+ perspective. Dr Ivana Grbavac discussed how mobility can shape and support academic career development.

Following a brief refreshment break, Marija Milićević spoke about the administrative processes and support systems in place for Erasmus+ students, while Vedrana Grbavac, a student, delivered a personal and heartfelt account of her Erasmus+ journey.

The final speaker was Milan Stojanović, a WBAA Board Member from Serbia, who introduced the mission and structure of the Western Balkans Alumni Association. His presentation focused on encouraging young people to connect, inspire, and create positive change through alumni engagement. The event concluded with a musical goodbye, creating a warm and memorable closing atmosphere.

Informal networking and excursion

After the formal programme, participants enjoyed an informal afternoon excursion to Čapljina. They shared a relaxing lunch at a charming riverside restaurant along the Neretva River, followed by a pleasant short walk at Bunski Kanali. This informal gathering provided a great opportunity for networking and socialising in a beautiful natural setting, strengthening the connections made during the event.

WBAA Engagement: strengthening regional connections

The event gathered around 30 participants, including students, teaching staff, and administrative personnel. Their active engagement throughout the sessions reflected strong interest in international mobility and cross-border educational collaboration.

A key learning point from the event was the strong interest participants showed in becoming members of WBAA, with several attendees specifically asking when the next call for membership or engagement opportunities would be published.

This clearly indicates a growing demand for more accessible information about how to get involved with WBAA.

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, 24 September 2025
Assoc. Prof. Anita Lalić, anita.juric@aptf.sum.ba
Edited by the Erasmus+ Support Service Team