Bosnia’s Future Economists Prepare for International Stage

Five of Bosnia & Herzegovina’s brightest young economics students recently joined finalists from across the Western Balkans for EFI’s Regional Economics Olympiad Bootcamp, taking another important step on their journey to the International Economics Olympiad Finals in Greece this August.

Designed to strengthen both academic knowledge and problem-solving skills, the bootcamp provided students with intensive preparation alongside experienced instructors while giving them the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded peers from across the region.

For many students, the experience reinforced that economics is about much more than theory.

“The Economics Olympiad is much more than a competition. It’s an opportunity to develop critical thinking, meet ambitious students, and discover how economics helps explain the real world and shape it.”

— Armin Aždajić

The bootcamp also helped students grow in confidence, encouraging them to tackle increasingly complex problems and recognise what they are capable of achieving.

Sara Komarica reflected on how the experience challenged her to think differently:

“There were several challenging problems that I initially thought were beyond my ability. After working through them with my teammates and instructors, I realised I could solve complex economic questions by breaking them into smaller steps. That gave me much more confidence in my problem-solving skills.”

The impact of the Economics Olympiad extends well beyond the students themselves. Their teacher, Kosana Božić, has witnessed first-hand how the programme transforms young people.

“The Economics Olympiad has encouraged them to step outside the constraints of traditional theoretical learning and begin thinking critically, connecting classroom lessons with real-world global economic trends. They have become far more proactive and motivated in their pursuit of knowledge.”

She also believes opportunities like these are particularly valuable for young people in Bosnia & Herzegovina.

“The Economics Olympiad opens doors to the world and shows students that their hard work and talent have global value. It raises their ambitions and demonstrates that, with dedication and effort, they can compete on equal footing with their peers on the international stage.”

As the students now prepare to represent Bosnia & Herzegovina at the International Economics Olympiad in Greece, they do so with not only stronger economic knowledge but also greater confidence, broader perspectives, and lasting friendships formed across the region.

“This year marks Bosnia and Herzegovina’s first participation in the Western Balkans Bootcamp. Beyond preparing our students for the international finals, it has helped them build confidence, form lasting friendships, and strengthen the regional connections that will stay with them long after the competition.”

Aida Hasagnic, Liberalni Forum

At EFI, this is exactly what the Economics Olympiad is designed to achieve. While the competition itself lasts only a few days, the skills, experiences, and connections students gain have the potential to shape their futures for years to come.