Training for new implementers of the Strong Families Programme was held in Sarajevo from 9 to 11 February 2026. The training brought together 20 professionals from various institutions working with children and families. Participants had the opportunity to become thoroughly familiar with the programme and to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for its successful implementation.
The professionals participating in the training came from: Zenica – the Catholic School Centre “Saint Paul” and the NADA Citizens’ Association; Kiseljak – “Ivan Goran Kovačić” Secondary School; Kakanj – the Majlis of the Islamic Community of Kakanj, Marriage and Family Counselling Centre; Zavidovići – the Centre for Social Work; Maglaj – the Centre for Social Work; Lukavac – the Public Institution Primary School “Lukavac Grad”; and SOS Children’s Villages Sarajevo.
This Programme is important because there are numerous factors that may precede the development of addiction, with family relationships standing out as one of the most significant. In many cases, disrupted or low-quality relationships within the family represent a risk factor for the development of various forms of addictive behaviour. The first patterns of behaviour, values, and ways of coping with challenges are adopted within the family. If this environment does not provide a foundation for healthy child development and the formation of a personality capable of recognising and resisting pressures and adequately coping with life challenges, the risk of developing addiction later in life increases.
The Addiction Prevention Competence Centre has recognised high-quality family relationships as one of the key protective factors in addiction prevention. For this reason, the Strong Families Programme is implemented with the aim of improving family skills, empowering parents and guardians in their parenting role, and encouraging the development of positive and supportive interactions among family members.
The training for new implementers was led by Alma Hadžiskakić, Programme Officer for Family Prevention Programmes, and Andrea Mijatović, Deputy Executive Director of the Addiction Prevention Competence Centre. Through interactive working methods, they introduced participants to the programme concept, its structure, and implementation approach.
The results achieved so far indicate significant positive changes, both among parents and children.
Participants highlighted that the training took place in a relaxed and motivating atmosphere, characterised by a sense of a safe environment and strong group support. They particularly emphasised the value of the detailed guidelines and materials provided, which enable them to immediately begin implementing the programme in their local communities. Cooperation, exchange of experiences, and the active participation of the entire group further contributed to the quality of the training and strengthened participants for their future work.
