Peacebuilding stories

Schools are more than just places of learning—they are spaces where young people shape their futures and build lifelong connections. Yet, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, many students grow up without opportunities to meet peers from different communities. The “Sustaining Peace and Social Cohesion in BiH" project, funded by the UN Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) and implemented by IOM and UNDP, is changing that by bringing students and teachers together to learn, collaborate, and form friendships. This activity is part of a $3.5 million initiative, running from December 2022 to June 2025. By pairing 16 schools across Bosnia and Herzegovina as "sister schools", the program gives students and teachers the opportunity to visit one another, exchange ideas, and explore new environments.

For Nejla Zukančić, a high school student from Bosanski Petrovac, joining the project meant meeting students from Drvar for the first time. “My friend and I spent days preparing for this event, were really excited to connect, share experiences, and make new friends.” 

For Monika Bandov, a teacher from Drvar, the experience was just as meaningful. “I had never visited Bosanski Petrovac before, and I’m so grateful for this opportunity. It’s been a pleasure to come here with my students, see how another school operates, and spend time with new colleagues and friends.” 

Through these exchanges, students build confidence, break down barriers, and develop leadership skills. Older students also take on mentoring roles, helping younger peers feel included and supported. “Over the past 14 months, I’ve grown so much. I overcame my fear of public speaking, developed new skills, and, most importantly, made lasting friendships. We stay in touch daily and often meet up. These experiences have truly enriched my school life". — Nejla.

More than 700 students and 74 teachers have participated in activities, including Critical Thinking Clubs, run by project partner The Center for Educational Initiatives Step by Step. These clubs give students a chance to discuss important topics, learn from each other, and gain new perspectives. “It was an incredible experience! I met so many new friends from different communities, and together, we explored new ideas, learned about values, and thought of ways to improve our schools.” — Alma Suljić, high school student, Livno.

This project is not just about connecting schools, but about creating a lasting impact on the students and teachers involved. To date, 2,480 students and teachers have benefited from the program, with additional support from implementing partners like the Association Centre for Educational Initiatives “Step by Step,” the Association “Psiholuminis” Prijedor, and the United Nations Volunteers (UNV).

By fostering relationships across communities, the project is helping shape a more connected and peaceful future for Bosnia and Herzegovina.