The International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property, known as “إيكروم,” recently joined forces with the International Forum of Bosnia to kick off the 20th International Summer School for Youth and Heritage. Running from July 24 to August 9, 2025, the program will take place at various locations across Bosnia and Herzegovina, including Sarajevo, Mostar, and Stolac. This initiative aims to immerse young participants in the significance of cultural heritage and its critical role in the recovery of communities.
Fostering Awareness of Cultural Heritage
As part of the summer school activities, “إيكروم” is conducting a workshop focused on risk management and the documentation of cultural heritage during crises. The primary objectives of these sessions are to educate youth about the vital importance of cultural heritage and its contribution to community recovery, alongside principles of preserving urban and built heritage.
The expert team from “إيكروم” will provide training on disaster risk management, emphasizing practical skills for documenting built heritage and mapping techniques. Such training is essential, as it equips participants with the necessary tools to face challenges related to preserving cultural heritage in times of crisis.
The Importance of Collaboration and Innovation
In her opening remarks, “إيكروم” Director-General Aruna Francesca Maria Gujral underscored the vital partnership with the International Forum of Bosnia. She highlighted the significant impact of the training program, which aims to equip participants with foundational skills for preserving cultural heritage during crises and in the aftermath. “Our collaboration with the Forum in Bosnia embodies our belief that cultural heritage is not only about the past but serves as a foundation for recovery and rebuilding,” Gujral stated. She emphasized that Bosnia and Herzegovina is an exceptionally important venue for this initiative, as here, heritage symbolizes hope and the power of renewal.
A Dynamic Cohort of Participants
The launch event featured welcoming speeches from Sarajevo’s Deputy Mayor, Predrag Boharic, and was attended by Nasser Al-Darmaki, Deputy Director of “إيكروم’s” regional office in Sharjah, along with esteemed professors and participants. This year, 23 trainees from 13 different countries comprise a dynamic and diverse group of students and professionals. “إيكروم” is contributing three experts to the program while also providing support for additional Arab participants.
Utilizing Innovative Digital Heritage Tools
Participants will explore various sites of cultural heritage and museums while utilizing a range of digital heritage tools, including drawing, photography, laser scanning, and augmented reality applications. This diverse skill set aims to prepare them to address contemporary challenges in the field of built heritage preservation and disaster response.
Enhancing the Experience Through Diversity
Amra Hajji Mohdovic, Director of the Cultural Heritage Center at the International Forum of Bosnia, explained that this session is part of the annual activities surrounding the summer school’s 20th edition. She expressed excitement over this year’s strategic partnership with “إيكروم,” which significantly enhances the participants’ experience by accommodating their varied academic backgrounds and geographical locations.
She also noted that Bosnia and Herzegovina’s complex social and cultural landscape—marked by a history of conflict and recovery—provides a substantive backdrop for this training, offering valuable lessons from the region’s rich heritage, which has endured both destruction and restoration. Participants will certainly find these insights invaluable.