Bosnian exchange students arrive in Dayton for culturally-immersive program

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) — A group of students and teachers arrived in Dayton Friday evening all the way from Bosnia-Herzegovina.

They are part of a cohort that’s been running for six years, made possible through a cooperative agreement between the city of Dayton and the Sarajevo embassy. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of State and provides a culturally immersive experience for those involved.

Each year, 18 students and three teachers visit the Dayton region. This year, the guests come from Livno, Brčko District and Zenica.

“They can explore ideals of democracy, civic engagement, conflict intervention and management, entrepreneurism, volunteerism, all while learning alongside Dayton-region peers,” said Miranda Brooks, stateside project manager for the Bosnia Youth Leadership Program.

There are two full weeks of programming in Dayton, which includes visiting local schools, the statehouse in Columbus, Wilmington College’s Peace Resource Center, the Dayton Peace Museum, and attending a city commission meeting.

“While the students are here, they’re also working on project ideas for implementation back in their home towns. Projects to help elevate their communities,” said Brooks.

Programming comes to a close with a farewell ceremony on Nov. 4. After that, Brooks says the students and teachers will head to New York City for a few days.

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