For years, vocational schools in Serbia have been overshadowed by gymnasiums, but now the game is changing like never before! The Hospitality-Technical School in Belgrade is seeing a massive surge in interest, with 14 classes ready for enrollment this year. Gabriela Grujić, director of the Office for Dual Education, reveals that interest in shortage occupations will be even higher than last year, and a whopping 70% of young people who complete dual education find a job within two months! Is this finally the end of the myth that only gymnasiums lead to success?
Dual education is the golden mean between theory and practice. Young people don’t just learn for grades; they get real work tasks in companies, giving them a huge advantage in the job market. Profiles like machine operators, locksmiths, CNC technicians, cooks, and electrotechnicians are among the most sought after. Parents are finally recognizing the value of these programs and supporting their children’s choices because dual education guarantees quality and job security.
Dušan Komlenac, assistant director of the Hospitality-Technical School in Belgrade, points out that last year there were 28 contests, and this year there are 33, with the potential to enroll up to 3,000 students. The school offers six educational profiles, including hotel-restaurant technician, tourism technician, culinary technician, as well as cooks, waiters, and pastry chefs. This is the real path to a job, not just theory and exams!
Parents, it’s time to stop pushing your kids only into gymnasiums and give them a chance to gain real skills that the market demands! Who knows, maybe your kids will be the next successful craftsmen or top chefs who will have a job immediately after school. And you, dear readers, what do you think about this turnaround? Is dual education the future or just a passing trend? Drop a comment, share your experience, or just crack a joke — you know we love a good story!
