Bosnian university president’s book to be presented at WKU today

ShelRogers

WKU is receiving a very special gift from the  Bosnian University of Sarajevo.

Faruk Caklovica, president of the University of Sarajevo, will have a copy of his book “1,479 Days, The Siege of University of Sarajevo: A documentary overview of events 1992-1995,” presented to WKU President Gary Ransdell on Tuesday at 6 p.m. on the second floor of Ivan Wilson Center for Fine Arts gallery.

Mirzet Mustafic, who attended the University of Sarajevo, and his daughter, Majda Mustafic will present the book for Caklovica.

Donna Renaud, communication instructor, is coordinating the event.

“This has such significance because it’s a part of the documentary written about the over-1,400 days of Bosnian turmoil,” Renaud said. “During that time, the university never stopped having classes. It was incredible.”

Renaud said the book focuses on the War on Bosnia, detailing the university’s activities despite the ongoing turmoil. Renaud said there is particular meaning behind WKU receiving the book due to Bowling Green’s large Bosnian population.

“It’s from one president to another,” Renaud said. “That’s really important to this community.”

Department of Communication Head Helen Sterk is set to welcome guests to Tuesday’s presentation, according to the program outline.

“In our department, we stress intercultural communication, especially international intercultural communication,” Sterk said.

Sterk said Renaud’s strong connection with the Bowling Green Bosnian community has been a “valuable resource” in getting this event together.

“Donna was originally the one who found out about the book, and everything fell into place from there,” Sterk said. “Sometimes, really good, beneficial accidents happen, and I think this is one of them.”

Currently, the University of Sarajevo has around 50,000 students enrolled, and it ranks among some of the largest European universities, according to the University of Sarajevo website.

“Whenever this university can connect the community and when those two can connect with the world, it expands WKU’s reach,” Sterk said.

After the book has been presented, it will remain on display in the Kentucky Library. Renaud said the book will not be available for check-out, but guests may take a look at it whenever they wish.