A shoemaker in Split awarded scholarships to students in underprivileged occupations

Minister of Economy Ante Šušnjar visited the company DRACO in Donje Muće, inspecting its production facility and discussing investments and development with management, before visiting Split to hand over agreements for scholarships to students pursuing shortage trades. During his visit, he emphasized the role of the Ministry of Economy in supporting projects through the Law on Encouragement of Investments and funds from European Union programs, which enhance the competitiveness of Croatian industry, promote new technologies, and create quality jobs. DRACO produces hydro-insulation systems and building chemicals. Through the Law on Encouragement of Investments, the company completed an investment worth 2.7 million euros for expansion and equipping its production plant, resulting in the creation of 11 new jobs. The minister noted that the Split-Dalmatia County has a strong entrepreneurial and production base, highlighting that since 2016, the number of active businesses has increased by more than 91 percent, while the number of active legal entities has risen by 27 percent. He added that experiences from companies like DRACO will be valuable in implementing the National Plan for Industry Development, aimed at further encouraging investments in modern production, research and development, application of new technologies, and strengthening the competitiveness of Croatian industry. During his stay in Split, Šušnjar also handed over scholarship agreements to 42 students from the Split-Dalmatia County who are studying shortage crafts. Nationally, 415 scholarships were awarded this year, with the Ministry of Economy securing nearly one million euros for the initiative. Each individual scholarship amounts to 2,400 euros. Šušnjar stated that the Croatian economy seeks knowledge, skills, and expertise, and that the increase in the number of businesses and growing demand for qualified workers confirm the importance of investing in vocational education. The ministry’s focus on vocational training aligns with broader efforts to address labor market shortages and support economic growth. By providing financial assistance to students entering fields with high demand, the government aims to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers capable of meeting industrial needs. This approach reflects a strategic shift toward prioritizing practical skills and technical expertise as key drivers of national development. The decision to allocate scholarships for students in shortage trades underscores the government's commitment to addressing structural challenges in the labor market. With many industries facing a skills gap due to demographic changes and evolving technological demands, such initiatives are crucial for maintaining economic stability and innovation. The emphasis on vocational education also highlights the need for closer collaboration between educational institutions and local businesses to tailor training programs to real-world requirements. In addition to the scholarship program, Šušnjar’s visit to DRACO illustrates the government’s proactive stance in fostering business growth and investment. By engaging directly with enterprises, the minister reinforces the importance of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable development. His comments on the success of the Split-Dalmatia region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem suggest confidence in the area’s potential to contribute significantly to national economic goals. Such visits serve as both recognition of existing achievements and encouragement for continued progress.