The University of Banja Luka (UNIBL) was officially founded on November 7, 1975, growing from earlier higher education institutions like the Teacher Training College (1950) and faculties in Engineering, Economics, Law, etc., which were branches of the University of Sarajevo. It became the leading university in Republika Srpska, expanding from its initial five faculties and colleges to over a dozen today, focusing on Bologna Process standards and international cooperation.
Key Historical Points:
- Precursors (1950s-1970s): The roots lie in individual colleges and faculties established post-WWII, including the Teacher Training College (1950), Faculty of Engineering (1961), and branches of Sarajevo’s faculties.
- Official Founding (1975): These units merged to form the University of Banja Luka, initially with 5 faculties (Electrical Engineering, Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Law, Economics) and 3 junior colleges.
- Early Leadership: Professor Dragomir Malić was the first Rector, with Kjazim Krajišnik and Dr. Mićo Carević as Vice-Rectors.
- Growth & Integration (Late 20th Century): The university expanded significantly, integrating new faculties like Medicine (1978) and Agriculture, and later joining the Bologna Process.
- Modern Era: Today, UNIBL is a major institution in Bosnia & Herzegovina, part of international networks, and actively involved in research and EU projects.
Development Timeline:
- 1950: Teacher Training College opens.
- 1961: Faculty of Engineering established.
- 1969: College of Economics founded.
- 1975: University of Banja Luka formally established.
- 1978: Faculty of Medicine established.
- 1992: Faculty of Forestry moves to Banja Luka as part of the university.
