On October 22–23, 2025, Ostrava became the epicenter of a European-wide discussion about the future of vocational education. The first edition of the international conference VET Bridge welcomed nearly 200 participants, including international experts, school directors, representatives of companies, public authorities, and educational institutions. The event was co-founded by the Moravian-Silesian Technological Academy in partnership with the Moravian-Silesian Region.
Day One: European Inspiration and New Directions for Czech Education
The conference began in the cultural venue Dům kultury Poklad. Opening remarks were delivered by Jan Veřmiřovský, Deputy Governor for Education, and Jan Meca, Director of the Moravian-Silesian Technological Academy. The first program block offered valuable international insights, proving that vocational education can serve as a powerful tool for regional development.
Highlights of international inspiration and practical experience included:
- Jon Labaka from the Basque innovation center TKNIKA presented a comprehensive model for innovation in vocational education and a successful framework of school–business cooperation in the Basque Country.
- Tatjana Babrauskienė, member of the European Economic and Social Committee, shared Lithuania’s approach to education reform.
- Adrijana Hodak, Head of Talentjourney — a platform for vocational excellence in the field of the Internet of Things — and an active member of the Community of Practice for Centres of Vocational Excellence.
- Petr Zahradník, economist and member of the National Economic Council (NERV), initiated a discussion on how to better motivate schools to engage with the labor market and how to foster entrepreneurship among students.
The entire day revolved around sharing best practices and actionable solutions. Examples from Lithuania, Spain, and the Basque Country demonstrated that real change is possible—if the right people and institutions come together.
Day Two: EduBox in Practice and Hands-On Workshops
The second day of the conference moved to the Business Incubator Ostravica. Here, participants took part in practical workshops focused on innovative teaching tools that are actively transforming the landscape of vocational training.
Visitors could try out:
- EduBoxes focused on cybersecurity, 3D scanning, or headlight disassembly from a Renault Scenic E-Techelectric car.
- Applications of artificial intelligence in education, especially in development, project management, and data analysis.
- Ways to connect theoretical knowledge with practical outcomes using both digital and physical teaching aids.
Interest in the workshops was high — both teachers and students left with practical insights they could immediately implement in their own schools.
A Shared Vision for the Future of Education
VET Bridge 2025 clearly confirmed that high-quality vocational education is a topic that resonates across Europe. Experience sharing, open dialogue, and demonstration of innovation formed a solid foundation for future cooperation between schools, businesses, and institutions.
A huge thank you goes to all the partners, schools, speakers, and attendees. We believe that VET Bridge will grow into a lasting platform that helps transform vocational education — making it more practical, connected with technology, and focused on the skills of the future.
