The Minister of Scientific and Technological Development and Higher Education of the Republic of Srpska, Željko Budimir, stated that the election of the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Banja Luka, Ranko Škrbić, as a visiting professor at the Moscow Medical University is a tremendous success for everyone in the higher education system of Srpska, and especially for the University of Banja Luka.

"This elevates the ranking of our university to a higher level, and we expect this cooperation to be fruitful and to contribute to the relations between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Srpska, which are at the highest level and constantly on an upward trajectory", said Minister Budimir after the meeting with Škrbić.

According to him, this is also an indication to other teachers working at the University of Banja Luka that hard work always pays off, and in this way, they promote higher education in the Republic of Srpska and the University of Banja Luka.

"What is particularly important to me is that we are deepening cooperation with higher education institutions that, in the long term, can improve our higher education system", emphasised Minister Budimir.

He pointed out that Professor Škrbić has so far shown serious results in scientific research, as well as in managerial work concerning higher education.

Škrbić expressed his satisfaction with being elected as a visiting professor at one of the largest medical faculties in Russia, which has a heritage dating back to the second half of the 18th century.

"The reason why I was chosen should be sought in the extensive body of work that has emerged from our Biomedical Research Centre, so this is not only a recognition for me but for the entire Faculty of Medicine and especially my young associates", said Škrbić.

He highlighted that, thanks to the support of the Ministry of Scientific and Technological Development and Higher Education, young people engaged in the Biomedical Research Centre have the opportunity to conduct serious research and gather around projects, representing an army of young people working daily to enhance knowledge.

"This prestigious title will also enable further knowledge exchange, and we are already in discussions with the Moscow Medical University for their young researchers to come to Banja Luka to complete their doctoral studies research", noted Škrbić.

He added that cooperation with the Moscow Medical University offers great opportunities for the Faculty of Medicine in Banja Luka, as well as the University, for deeper connections that will undoubtedly contribute to their further development.

Škrbić announced that the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Banja Luka could soon begin cooperation with the Medical University of Saint Petersburg as well.