At the invitation of the Waqf Directorate of the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the director of Foundation Second, Belma Mujezinović, attended the panel discussion “Alija Izetbegović – Benefactor and Donor”, held as part of the “Days of Waqf in Bosnia and Herzegovina” on Wednesday, May 7, in the Grand Hall of the Gazi Husrev-bey Library in Sarajevo.
This event, as the concluding segment of this year’s manifestation, was dedicated to the waqf established by the late President of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Alija Izetbegović, in 1997 — leaving behind a lasting good that transcends a human lifetime and becomes a foundation for generations to come.
The panel was moderated by Prof. Dr. Fahira Fejzić-Čengić, while the panelists — Dr. Senaid Zajimović, Šahin Kerla, and Edhem Bičakčić — spoke about the value and significance of this waqf, its impact on youth education, and the legacy Alija Izetbegović left to his people.
In his opening address, Sarajevo Mufti Dr. Nedžad Grabus, envoy of the Grand Mufti Husein-ef. Kavazović, emphasized that the “Bošnjaci” waqf has been preserved and further enriched through its development, and that the trust the late President placed in the Islamic Community has not been betrayed.
The Director of the Waqf Directorate, Dr. Senaid Zajimović, highlighted that since 2001, the waqf has functioned within the formal organization of the Islamic Community, ensuring transparency and stability. Meanwhile, the Director of the “Bošnjaci” Fund, Šahin Kerla, pointed out that the waqf was established with funds from Saudi Arabia specifically for the education of youth, free from political influence, and that to date, they have awarded scholarships to 2,500 talented students and pupils.
Edhem Bičakčić, President of the Assembly of the Islamic Community, stated that the late Alija Izetbegović recognized knowledge as the key resource for development.
"With the ‘Bošnjaci’ waqf, he showed how an individual can leave a lasting good that outlives their lifetime. Today, that Fund continues to grow because it is managed by the principles of a good steward. Upbringing and education are essential needs of our society," Bičakčić emphasized.
On behalf of Foundation Second, Director Belma Mujezinović expressed her gratitude for the invitation and honor to attend such a meaningful event, stating:
"It is a great privilege to be part of this gathering dedicated to Alija Izetbegović — a man who, through his own actions, showed how to leave a legacy for the community. As the director of Foundation Second, I carry both a personal and professional wish that one day I will dedicate property and the Foundation itself as a waqf, leaving behind a lasting good for the children and families we serve. Examples like this teach us that the most valuable thing is what we leave behind — that which continues to live on and do good for others."
The panel discussion concluded with the recitation of Al-Fatiha for all benefactors and donors, with special remembrance of the vision of the late Alija Izetbegović, whose legacy continues to be cherished and nurtured.
