In the picturesque surroundings of Trakošćan, a two-day seminar brought together 26 vocational education and training (VET) advisors from regional chambers of trades and crafts across Croatia. Held on May 12 and 13, the seminar was a meeting point for professionals who work on the front lines—advisors who maintain daily contact with schools, apprentices, and crafts in their counties.
The focus of the event? Cooperation, partnership, and concrete tools to improve both collaboration and quality in VET.
As the backbone of vocational training in their regions, these advisors play a crucial role in linking the world of education with the world of work. The seminar served as both a platform for knowledge exchange and a space for strengthening these connections through dialogue and hands-on activities.
Discussions revolved around building more effective partnerships with schools and craftspeople, developing better support mechanisms for apprentices, and exploring practical tools that can enhance cooperation and raise standards in vocational training.
“The idea was not only to share best practices but also to inspire new approaches and deepen the sense of shared responsibility,” one participant noted.
The informal setting of Trakošćan added a special touch—providing the right atmosphere for open conversations, networking, and reflection away from the everyday work routine.
As Croatia continues to modernize and strengthen its VET system, initiatives like this multiplicator seminar are vital. They empower those working behind the scenes to better support apprentices and craftspeople, and ultimately, to ensure that young people entering the trades are receiving high-quality, future-ready vocational education and training.
