Review article
Building Peace and Coexistence through Education: The Example of the Catholic School Center in Sarajevo
Dalibor Milas
orcid.org/0009-0009-2539-0352
; Faculty of Catholic Theology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
Abstract
This paper examines the role of Catholic School Centers (CSC) in Bosnia and Herzegovina as an educational model that promotes social cohesion and coexistence in a country divided by ethnic, religious, and political differences. The focus of the paper is on the example of the CSC „St. Joseph” in Sarajevo, which demonstrates how educational institutions can become platforms for dialogue and reconciliation. Through an analysis of the historical development of the CSC, its role in the educational system, and its impact on a multicultural society, the paper highlights how education goes beyond traditional academic goals and becomes a key player in building lasting peace. Methodologically, the paper uses thematic analysis based on scientific interviews with former CSC students and staff, exploring their personal stories and experiences. The results show that the CSC is not just an educational institution, but also a bridge that connects different ethnic and religious communities, promoting critical thinking, tolerance, and mutual understanding. The paper concludes that CSCs can serve as an inspiration for broader reform processes in educational systems in countries facing multicultural challenges.
Keywords
Catholic School Center; Multicultural Education; Coexistence; Social Cohesion; Reconciliation
Hrčak ID:
330744
URI
Publication date:
9.5.2025.
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