Why Are More Serbian Graduates Choosing Vocational Schools Over Gymnasiums? Shocking Facts!
It’s becoming crystal clear: gymnasiums in Serbia are losing popularity, while vocational schools are booming like never before. Why? Because the job market is screaming for skilled tradespeople, and graduates are finally catching on! While gymnasiums see a drop in interest, especially in rural areas, vocational schools are topping the charts—and it’s no coincidence.
Eye-Popping Salaries
Imagine this: employers are ready to offer up to 3,000 euros per month for in-demand jobs like plumbers, cooks, programmers, and tourism technicians. Yes, you read that right—3,000 euros! In a country where the average salary often doesn’t even reach half that amount, this is a bombshell.
The Job Market Doesn’t Wait
Programmers, mechanical and electrical engineers don’t have to wait long for jobs. Companies offer internships during the final years of study and then permanent positions. Tourism, agriculture, metal processing—these sectors are crying out for workers. If Serbia doesn’t develop these areas, it will be forced to import food and services from abroad.
Career Guidance: The Lifesaver
Milorad Antić, president of the forum of vocational schools, says career guidance is key. Without it, students enroll in schools that don’t fit their skills or interests, wasting time and money, while gymnasiums remain half-empty. Psychologists and teachers need to take this seriously because young people’s futures are at stake.
Life-Changing Tests
There are special career guidance tests that help students discover their interests and abilities. The test lasts about two to three hours and includes psychological, aptitude, and personality assessments. Results are carefully reviewed with experts, and parents are often involved.
Harsh Reality
Many parents register their children for these tests after seeing how much they helped older students. Young people say the tests even helped their friends. Career guidance isn’t just paperwork—it’s a map to success in a rapidly changing world.
What Do You Think?
Is it finally time for trades to get the respect they deserve? Has enrolling in gymnasium become overrated? Or is this just a passing trend? If your child is about to choose, would you send them for career guidance testing? Drop a comment, share a story, or crack a joke—let’s get the conversation going on this hot topic that affects Serbia’s future!
Source: Blic.rs, statements by Milorad Antić and Ivana Božić, National Employment Service
Also read: How many spots are left in vocational schools and gymnasiums after the second enrollment round on the “Moja srednja škola” portal.
