‘Two Schools under One Roof’: How do students of different ethnicities experience partaking in this education system : A Case Study of Gymnasium Mostar

Abstract: Education is widely acknowledged as a catalyst for social change and progress within society. Contact theory supports this notion and suggests that fostering interactions between individuals from different groups can effectively reduce prejudice and promote peace. Building upon a unique set of data, gathered from 18 semi-structured interviews with students, parents, and relevant organizations, this study aims to investigate the experiences of students within the 'two schools under one roof' system in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Specifically, it seeks to understand whether this system has any potential implications on the intergroup relations between Bosniak and Croat students and how their attitudes might differ. Recognizing the limited attention given to student perspectives and integrated educational efforts from organizations in BiH, this research aims to address this research gap and contribute to this field of knowledge.  The main findings show that there is a strong desire amongst students for further integration of education and a need for a unified curriculum. Findings also suggest that the school and external actors, except relevant organizations, show no support for such integrative actions. The paper furthermore argues for an urgent need to modernize the current schooling system in Bosnia and Herzegovina by incorporating integrative practices and fostering community-building projects and also calls for urgent actions from policymakers.