What’s next for IDEA at the University of Belgrade? 

IDEA-net project researchers, Professor Slobodan Cvejić and Dr. Milica Resanović organised a dynamic webinar focused on the potential for establishing an IDEA Office (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility) within the University of Belgrade. Together wtih Dr. Nataša Simić, Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, the webinar engaged both academic and administrative in discussing key opportunities and challenges. 

Resources inspiring change

The webinar began with a brief presentation by Milica Resanović, who introduced the IDEA-net project (Expanding the Network of IDEA Practitioners in Higher Education through Institutional Capacity Building). All participants had the opportunity to learn about the project’s key ideas and objectives. Special emphasis was placed on an analytical overview of the Compendium of Best Practices, highlighting the diversity of IDEA practices around the world and the different ways in which inclusiveness and excellence are integrated into the everyday work of higher education institutions.

Slobodan Cvejić then presented the Guideline on Establishing an IDEA Office, published as part of the IDEA-net project. The presentation focused on the essential steps required to establish such an office, with particular attention given to evaluating which steps may already be partially implemented, such as identifying underrepresented groups and pinpointing critical moments in students’ academic journeys when they may be especially vulnerable, and which steps still need to be taken in the future.

Reflecting on the vision for September 

Dr. Nataša Simić concluded the session by sharing her knowledge of the most vulnerable student populations and current support mechanisms available at the Faculty. She also highlighted a variety of initiatives already aligned with IDEA principles, both formal and informal, which could serve as a strong foundation for future institutional practices.

The exchange of ideas that followed served as a powerful catalyst for reflection and collaboration. It set the stage for concrete next steps toward building a more inclusive, equitable, and supportive academic environment at the Faculty of Philosophy. In total, 19 participants discussed for 90 minutes and agreed to continue with IDEA activities in September.