Croatia: Roundtable emphasizes education-economy cooperation for apprenticeships

Gospić, Croatia – A roundtable discussion titled "Apprenticeship that Connects – Cooperation between Education and Economy" was held on May 20, 2026, in Gospić. Organized by the Croatian Chamber of Crafts, the event is part of the project "Promoting Vocational Education – Work-Based Learning." It brought together representatives from the education system, institutions, craftspeople, and entrepreneurs to foster stronger collaboration in vocational education and apprenticeships.

Joso Smolić, Vice President of the Croatian Chamber of Crafts, emphasized the critical role of quality practical training and the apprenticeship model in developing the craft sector and the broader economy. He stated that through the "Promoting Vocational Education – Work-Based Learning" project, the aim is to further strengthen the apprenticeship model. This approach allows young people to gain real work experience alongside theoretical knowledge, learning from mentors in craft businesses. Smolić noted that practical training with employers equips students with concrete skills, develops work habits, and prepares them for the labor market.

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Quality practical training is the foundation of quality craft education, and that is why through the project ‘Promoting Vocational Education – Work-Based Learning’ we want to further strengthen the apprenticeship model.

Smolić also highlighted the increasing interest in vocational professions among students, attributing it to the security, rapid employment opportunities, professional development, and potential for entrepreneurship that these careers offer. The Croatian Chamber of Crafts actively promotes vocational occupations through fairs, festivals, workshops, and discussions, aiming to make these fields more attractive to young people.

The roundtable included discussions on the importance of linking the education system with the economy, the role of employers in implementing apprenticeships, challenges in vocational education, and opportunities for improving work-based learning. The project "Promoting Vocational Education – Work-Based Learning" is co-financed by the European Union through the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) under the Efficient Human Resources Program 2021-2027. The Ministry of Economy is the project beneficiary, with the Croatian Chamber of Crafts as a partner.

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All the more students recognize the value of vocational professions and decide precisely for craft programs. This shows that young people recognize that craft professions offer security, the possibility of quick employment, professional development, but also the opportunity to start their own business.