17. January 2012.

Interculturalism and Intercultural Education Conference

The State Ministry of Civil Affairs and UN's Programme Culture for Development held the conference focused on importance of improving the intercultural dialogue, rehabilitation of the symbols of multiculturalism and the significance of intercultural education as a model of inclusive education. The Conference gathered more than 110 representatives of designate cultural, education institutions and administrations from all levels of authority countrywide.

"In the global context of diversified cultures, education should provide and foster knowledge about and respect for differences. All actors involved in education: teachers and learners, curriculum developers, policy makers and community members invest their cultural perspectives into what is taught. In that process each of them should constantly be aware of the fact that next to them there are different cultural perspectives than their own. By acting in such a manner, we will all contribute to making the world and our communities better and more inclusive." said Yuri Afanasiev, UN Resident Coordinator.

Along with the focus on the development of culture in BiH, the Programme supported rehabilitation of the three symbols of multiculturalism – the Orthodox Church in Mostar, Ferhadija Mosque in Banja Luka and Monastery in Plehan near Derventa.

“Interculturalism is an exceptionally important concept for us today. The past shows that preservation of culture is a key to democratic society. We cannot speak of reforms without speaking of education on intercultural understanding“, said Minister Nović, He added that the Culture for Development Programme implemented by UNDP, UNESCO and UNICEF produced excellent results.

Audience was also addressed by Salmir Kaplan, Federal Minister of Education and Sports and Irena Soldat-Vujanović, Deputy Minister of Education and Culture of Republika Srpska, both emphasizing the importance of intercultural dialogue and continued activities in this field.

MDG-F Programme Culture for Development is a three-year programme that is being implemented in partnership of UNESCO, UNDP and UNICEF in cooperation with the State Ministry of Civil Affairs, Ministry of Culture and Sports of FBiH, Ministry of Education and Culture of RS, as well as other institutions working in the area of education and culture. Programme is implemented through Millennium Development Goals Achievement Fund, financed by the Government of Kingdom of Spain.