Hami literally means “the person who protects, guides, and watches over.” The concept of Hamilik derives its historical and cultural identity from the “Ahilik and Tradesmen (Professional Solidarity) Organizations.” Organizations of tradesmen, the brotherhood of ahis (brothers) within an organizational discipline as required by the tradition and culture of the Ahi community; It is built on adopting and protecting each other, that is, being Hami to each other.
The philosophy of “fütüvvet” is the basis of this tradition. Fütüvvet means “generosity-valor,” beyond that, it is the understanding of “giving up and giving up on oneself for others.” According to this historical experience, every master foreman is under the umbrella of tradesmen organizations; journeyman’s apprentice; and the apprentice is the Hami of his apprentice; thus, while professional skills and equipment are transferred to new generations, on the other hand, high human virtues, and morals such as generosity, self-sacrifice, sharing, solidarity, and fraternity play a vital role in this transmission.
The aim of the Hamilik method is not only to teach the intricacies of a job or profession but to convey and remind the student of the understanding and responsibilities of “being human” simultaneously. The Hamilik Okulu Bosna Project has emerged through the efforts of the Hamilik Okulu Vakfı and Svitanje. The Hamilik Okulu Bosna is a 2-year complementary education program developed to support Bosnian university students in enhancing their practical skills in their fields of study.
