The 10th  Balkan Conference on Standardization „Research and Education Trigger NextGen Standardization” was held in Timișoara from 22 to 23 September 2025, organized by the Romanian Standards Association (ASRO). The Institute for Standardization of Bosnia and Herzegovina (ISBIH) was represented by Mr. Sc. Miljan Savić, Head of the Conformity Assessment Department.

The conference brought together representatives of the European Standardization Organizations (CEN, CENELEC, ETSI), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), national standardization bodies, Academia, and industry,  focusing on a systematic integration of standardization into research and curricula, and on strengthening the competencies needed by the labour market.

Key conclusions of the two-day discussions included:

- The need to integrate standardization into education processes

Education was highlighted as the key foundation for the future standardization development. Participants agreed that introducing standardization at early stages of academic programs - through courses, micro-credentials, and student projects - is crucial for preparing a new generation of experts. Without this step, the sustainability of the system and long-term engagement of young professionals cannot be ensured.

- The role of standards as accelerators of research results and enablers of market-ready solutions

Standards provide researchers with a common language and a reliable framework that ensure interoperability, trust, and traceability. This enables scientific results to be translated into practical solutions that industry and society can quickly apply, building a bridge between research laboratories and the market. 

- The importance of close cooperation between Academia, industry, and standardization bodies

Strong partnerships are key to aligning innovation with real-world needs and international best practices. Universities bring knowledge and young talent, industry provides challenges and opportunities for implementation, while standardization bodies ensure that results are scalable and internationally recognized. This “triangle of cooperation” was repeatedly emphasized as the foundation of a successful green and digital transition.

- Recognition of standards as strategic tools for sustainability and global conformity

Beyond their technical function, standards are increasingly recognized as drivers of economic growth and sustainability. By integrating them into educational, research, and innovation strategies, countries and industries strengthen their global position and ability to adapt to contemporary challenges.

ISBIH is actively engaged in raising awareness about the importance of standardization in education, research, and industry. Introducing standards into teaching and projects provides students with knowledge and skills required by the labour market, while ensuring that businesses have experts ready to implement standards in practice.

Standards are not just technical documents, but everyday tools that shape our environment - from product safety and service quality to environmental protection and digital security. Their implementation builds trust, raises quality, and contributes to the competitiveness of the economy. ISBIH will continue to develop and promote BAS standards, in cooperation with institutions, academia, and industry.