Zagreb, April 9, 2025 – With an impressive ceremony and a majestic atmosphere in the presence of competitors, mentors, school principals, domestic and international guests and employer representatives, WorldSkills Croatia 2025 was officially opened last night in Zagreb – the largest vocational education event in Croatia and the region.

This year’s competition brings together more than 370 top students from vocational schools, who will demonstrate their knowledge and skills in 59 disciplines over the next three days. They are joined by over 350 mentors, representatives of 35 host schools, and more than 170 members of adjudication committees. A record number of international competitors from 13 countries are also participating as part of preparations for the upcoming EuroSkills 2025 competition, which will be held in Denmark in September.

The event is organised by the Agency for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Education (ASOO) for the sixth consecutive year. The Director of the Agency, Mile Živčić, welcomed all attendees and emphasised the importance of this event in promoting excellence in vocational education.

Ivana Mehle, Deputy Director of the Croatian Employment Service, highlighted the importance of linking vocational education with the labour market and the role of the Employment Service in this process.

In the opening segment of the ceremony, Tomislav Tomašević, Mayor of the City of Zagreb, spoke about the long-standing and successful cooperation between the City and the Agency in organising this event, and stressed the importance of investing in young people and the development of vocational education as a foundation for sustainable economic growth.

The competition was officially opened by Ms Vesna Šerepac, Director of the Directorate for Upbringing and Education, who delivered remarks on behalf of the Minister of Science, Education and Youth. She emphasised that vocational education plays a key role in preparing young people for the future of work and social development.

The opening programme featured impressive musical and dance performances, presentations of all competitors by discipline, and participants from special exhibitions of vocational school students’ work. In the closing part of the ceremony, representatives of the competitors and adjudication committee members took an oath affirming their commitment to fair competition, integrity and professionalism.

WorldSkills Croatia 2025 is taking place from 9 to 11 April at the Zagreb Fair, and in addition to the competitions themselves, it includes a rich educational and promotional programme aimed at further strengthening the reputation of vocational education in society.