The International University of Sarajevo (IUS) organized a business breakfast meeting with the first graduates of the IUS Double Diploma Program, together with parents of students currently studying in Türkiye and students preparing to continue their studies at IUS partner universities.
The meeting was hosted by the Rector of IUS, Prof. Dr. Ali Osman Kuşakcı, and the Director of the Double Diploma Coordination Centre, Dr. Mustafa Krupalija. It provided an opportunity for students, graduates, parents, and IUS management to exchange experiences, discuss challenges, and reflect on the value of the Double Diploma Program.
As part of its internationalization strategy, IUS currently offers Double Diploma Programs across 21 undergraduate study programs in cooperation with four prestigious partner universities in Türkiye: Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul University, Marmara University, and the University of Health Sciences. These programs allow students to study in two countries, benefit from two academic systems, and graduate with two diplomas, expanding their academic, professional, and international opportunities.
The gathering brought together graduates currently in Bosnia and Herzegovina, parents of students continuing their studies in Istanbul, and students completing their second year at IUS before departing for Türkiye to continue the third and fourth years of study.
Participants shared their experiences of studying at renowned partner universities in Türkiye, including Istanbul Technical University and Istanbul University. Graduates and parents emphasized that the program represents a valuable academic and life opportunity, enabling students to experience different academic systems, build international networks, and gain two diplomas that open broad employment opportunities.
Students highlighted that studying in Türkiye helped them move beyond their comfort zone, adapt to a new university environment, experience a different culture, improve their language skills, and grow both academically and personally. While noting that the program also brings expected challenges, they described them as an important part of becoming more independent, mature, and professionally prepared.
Parents also shared their perspectives, underlining the importance of institutional support, communication, and guidance throughout the students’ academic journey. Their feedback offered valuable insight into the family experience of supporting students who pursue part of their studies abroad.
Rector Prof. Dr. Ali Osman Kuşakcı thanked the graduates, students, and parents for their openness and constructive feedback. He noted that the first generations in any new academic initiative often face the greatest number of challenges, as they help identify areas for improvement and contribute to the further development of the program. He encouraged the new group of students preparing to continue their studies in Türkiye to approach the experience with readiness, confidence, and an open mind.
The meeting once again confirmed the importance of the IUS Double Diploma Program as one of the University’s distinctive academic advantages. Through continuous dialogue with students, graduates, and families, IUS remains committed to further improving the program and providing strong support to all students who choose this challenging but rewarding academic path.
