The University Clinical Center Tuzla (UKC Tuzla) , led by Director Prof. Dr. Šekib Umihanić, welcomed His Excellency Damijan Sedar, Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to Bosnia and Herzegovina, for an official visit focused on enhancing cooperation in medical education and the professional development of healthcare personnel.
During the meeting, Ambassador Sedar expressed a strong commitment to fostering practical and meaningful forms of collaboration. He emphasized Slovenia’s readiness to support UKC Tuzla’s initiatives aimed at advancing medical education, facilitating staff exchanges, and exploring joint development projects.
Ambassador Sedar highlighted his preference for actionable solutions and effective implementation, noting that the visit to UKC Tuzla had left a very positive impression. He said that he would relay the proposals and initiatives discussed to the relevant institutions in the Republic of Slovenia, including the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Director of the University Clinical Center Tuzla, Prof. Dr. Šekib Umihanić, emphasized his ongoing efforts to strengthen international cooperation with the goal of enabling medical residents and young doctors to complete portions of their education and clinical training at renowned healthcare institutions across Europe and beyond, in addition to their experience at UKC Tuzla.
He noted that a significant number of young doctors currently complete their entire specialization at their home institution, a practice that should evolve through partnerships with international centers. Such collaborations would facilitate foundational education abroad and the organization of professional workshops, thereby broadening the clinical and academic exposure of future medical professionals.
Director Umihanić also highlighted successful existing collaborations, particularly with the University Medical Centre Ljubljana. He cited concrete examples, such as the training in bronchoscopy undertaken by doctors from the Clinic for Pulmonary Diseases at the Golnik Clinic, and specialized education in cardiovascular surgery conducted at the Clinical Center in Ljubljana.
Ambassador Damijan Sedar expressed his appreciation for the organizational structure and strategic direction of UKC Tuzla, stating that the clear and proactive approach of the institution’s leadership greatly facilitates his diplomatic mission. He emphasized that the Republic of Slovenia, as a member of the European Union, will give careful consideration to the possibility of providing institutional support for UKC Tuzla’s development initiatives. He also extended his gratitude to the management for their dedication and clearly defined vision for advancing this key healthcare institution, which plays a crucial role in the Tuzla Canton and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
