In September 2023, members of the Association for Local Development Initiatives (ALDI) from Goražde, including Executive Director Meliha Gačanin, Office Manager Anesa Imamović, Financial Manager Lejla Kazagić, and Chief Administrator Belma Hodo, attended on a study visit to the Volkshochschule (VHS) Ahaus, which lasted from September 9th to September 16th. This visit also included the participation of Sabina Šošić, Project Coordinator of DVV International – Country Office Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The host of the visit, Mr. Nikolaus Schneider, director of VHS, along with his dedicated team, prepared an inspiring program that enriched the knowledge of the participants and expanded horizons for future collaboration.
This exceptional study visit provided an opportunity for a deeper understanding of adult education strategies. In discussions with Celia Sokolowsky, the director of the Landesverband der Volkshochschulenin North Rhine-Westphalia, the analysis of adult education needs and discussions on political lobbying to advance this field in Bosnia and Herzegovina were explored. This outstanding collaboration was complemented by a visit to Haarmühle Ahaus Alstätte and a walk along the green border with the Netherlands, as well as a tour of the city of Münster, known as a city of science and learning. Given the importance of promotion and marketing, the ALDI team had the opportunity to engage in a detailed discussion on this topic with the employees of VHS Ahaus, with a special focus on the use of social media to better connect with the target audience. Another wonderful experience was participating in the culinary session "Kochen münsterländisch" as part of VHS Vreden, where cooking courses are regularly held, which is just one part of the adult education programs they offer. In the context of culture and history, it is important to mention Ingeborg Höting's presentation on the tragic events related to the lives and fates of the Jewish population. This presentation led to a productive discussion in which, except members of the working group and the host, the online participant was Admir Džemidžić, the director of the Regional Museum Goražde. The program also included an introduction to the educational offerings to see how their respective adult education programs work in practice. During their visit, they had the opportunity to take part in a practical health education workshop. The visit also covered the field of vocational education and the discussion of its concept at the BBS Westmünsterland Center. In addition, the visiting participants were introduced to aspects of environmental education during a visit to the Biologische Station Zwillbrock, emphasizing the importance of environmental awareness and sustainable development. These visits expanded their understanding and significance of such programs. The study visit included a tour of Kult Westmünsterland in Vreden, a cultural and historical center known for its unique appearance and content.
The visit program was enhanced by a meeting with the Mayor of Ahaus, Karola Voß, and Kirsten Neander-Harks, Chairwoman of the VHS Assembly. The meeting focused on the successful collaboration with VHS Ahaus and the City's engagement in the field of adult education.
In conclusion, we would like to express our deep gratitude to the hosts from VHS Ahaus for their hospitality and exceptional contribution to this study visit. The study visit resulted in a valuable exchange of knowledge and experiences among partners and opened up new perspectives for future collaboration and the enhancement of adult education.