ŠKIPINA: ACADEMIC SUCCESS IS THE RESULT OF DEDICATION; THE NEXT GOAL IS A MASTER’S DEGREE ABROAD

PALE, JULY 11 /SRNA/ - Sofija Škipina, the first graduate in the history of the Faculty of Economics in Pale to complete undergraduate studies with a perfect average grade of 10, said that this achievement represents the culmination of years of work, discipline, and dedication, and that she wishes to continue her academic development through master’s studies abroad.

On July 8, Škipina successfully defended her thesis titled "Sources of Financing for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises," bringing her exceptional academic journey to a close. "This achievement represents the result of many years of effort, hard work, and dedication, not only during my studies but throughout my entire education. I believe that perseverance, discipline, and the desire for progress are key factors in achieving any goal," Škipina said. She emphasized that none of this would have been possible without the help of her family, friends, and professors, who have always provided her with selfless support. She stated that, for more demanding subjects, she sought to further expand her knowledge through consultations with professors and the study of additional literature. "The average grade I achieved does not represent only the completion of my studies, but also confirmation that effort, perseverance, and consistency always pay off," Škipina emphasized. Speaking about her thesis, she said that she chose the topic in consultation with her mentor after expressing interest in the issue of financing small and medium-sized enterprises in the modern business environment. Škipina believes that this topic is of exceptional importance for Republika Srpska, given that small and medium-sized enterprises form the backbone of the domestic economy and significantly contribute to employment and overall economic development. However, she says that one of the biggest challenges these enterprises face is precisely limited access to sources of financing. Therefore, understanding various financing options is of key importance both for existing and newly established businesses. "Improving access to financial resources, including interest-free funds and alternative sources of financing, can contribute to strengthening the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises, encouraging innovation, increasing investment potential, and consequently fostering the overall economic development of Republika Srpska," Škipina said. She emphasized that she plans to continue her academic journey through master’s studies abroad. "In academic circles, there is an unwritten practice that it is desirable to change higher education institutions when pursuing further qualifications, as this significantly contributes to broadening academic horizons and social capital. I hope that, after that, I will have the opportunity to find employment in my field and apply the knowledge I have acquired in practice, while continuing with further training and professional development," Škipina said. From being the recipient of the Vuk Diploma at the "Srbija" Elementary School and the Gymnasium in Pale, through her success as a student at the Faculty of Economics of the University of Istočno Sarajevo, to receiving scholarships from the Government of Republika Srpska and the "Dr Milan Jelić" Foundation, Škipina has demonstrated through her achievements that dedication, knowledge, and perseverance are recognized and rewarded.