Font Size: 

The relevance of higher education in times of crisis and conflict has recently been discussed by many scholars. In the current global context in which more and more civilians become direct targets of war, it seems that this is a critical area of study. Hence, this research relates to the impact of conflict on higher education access, quality, governance, and the role of higher education institutions in promoting human security and resilience. Which strategies can universities employ to maintain operations, support their communities, and contribute to post-conflict human security? How can universities bring together different divided societies to promote resilience? In times of crisis and conflict, higher education institutions face unprecedented challenges that threaten their ability to function, provide education, and contribute to social stability. This research paper explores the critical role of higher education institutions in conflict zones, focusing on how universities can adapt and continue to serve as centers of learning and social cohesion. Through a mixed-methods approach, including case studies from Bosnia and Herzegovina, and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders, this study examines the resilience strategies employed by universities under duress. Preliminary findings suggest that while higher education institutions are severely impacted by conflict, they also possess unique capacities to foster resilience and human security. The study's implications underscore the need for policy frameworks that support higher education resilience in crisis settings. As such, this research has policy implications that go beyond the Bosnian case study: It will shed light on the broader discussion about the role of higher education institutions in post-war settings, with a focus on human security: the freedom of fear, freedom of want and freedom of indignity.

Keywords: higher education; resilience; crisis management; social cohesion; human security