THE PLACE OF RELIGION TEACHERS IN STRUC CTURE OF THE ISLAMIC COMMUNITY OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

KA NOVOM USTAVU ISLAMSKE ZAJEDNICE -VJEROUČITELJ U STRUKTURI ISLAMSKE ZAJEDNICE

Abstract

The article points to some of the illogicalities, discrepancies and unsystematic solutions in the teaching process and work of religion teachers in schools. Currently there are two types of organizing of religion teachers in Bosnia and Herzegovina: 1. Religion Teachers Association - entirely independent and legally registered civic association of religion teachers 2. Religion Teachers Council - a form of organization of religion teachers through institutions of Mufti Districts of the Islamic Community of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The author approves of establishment of the Religion Teachers Association of Sarajevo Canton, but gives preference to organizing religion teachers through Mufti District Religioon Teachers Councils. Mufti District (or Canttonal) Islamic Religious Teaching Competitions are held in only four out of eight Mufti Districts (Gorazde, Mostar, Zenica i Travnik). On the other hand, status of religious teachers is appallling in comparison to other teaching staff. For example, out of twenty-two religion teachers in Gracanica and Doboj Istok municipalities only one is employed permanently while all others are employed on a temporary basis. The article stresses that it is high time for religion teachers to come together and form one association at the state level - Coordinating Board of Muslim Religion Teachers in Bosnia and Herzegovina. An upcoming 15th anniverssary of reintroduction of religion education in schools adds to the importance of this initiative. In order to solve these various problems the author offers amendments to the Constituttion of the Islamic Community of Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as amendments to the Elecction Law.