First Cantonal Competition for Automotive Mechanics Students Held in Sarajevo

(Patria) - Students from five vocational high schools in Sarajevo Canton (KS) demonstrated their knowledge and skills through practical work, preparing them for the job market, at the first cantonal competition for automotive mechanics and mechatronics students.

The competition brought together final-year students from the vocational centers of Hadžići, Vogošća, and Ilijaš, as well as students from the Metal Trades High School Sarajevo and the Sarajevo School of Transport and Communications, as the host.



The event was opened by the Minister of Education and Upbringing of KS, Naida Hota-Muminović, who stated that vocational education has full value when students apply their acquired knowledge in practice.

- This competition is a clear indicator of the direction in which we are developing vocational secondary education, which relies on concrete knowledge, skills, and the needs of the labor market.

It is important that we follow modern trends in the industry and prepare students to be able to get employed immediately after completing their education or to continue their studies - says Hota-Muminović.



The event provided insight into the level of students' preparedness for work in real professional conditions. Through diagnostics and troubleshooting, application of modern technologies, and solving specific tasks, students showed how ready they are for what awaits them after their education.

Teachers and mentors play a key role in this process, transferring knowledge and guiding students towards safe and responsible work.

One of the participants, third-year student Rijad Ligata, emphasized that they prepared for the competition through daily work in the school workshop.

- We worked in the workshop every day and prepared for such tasks. With the support of our professors, we gained confidence in our work and showed what we know. I have been interested in the automotive industry for a long time and I want to pursue it in the future - said Ligata.



Through such activities, students further develop their skills, get to know each other, and exchange experiences.

The minister emphasized that such events open up opportunities for cooperation with employers, who increasingly visit schools and recognize the potential of students.

- These professions are in demand, well-paid, and have a high rate of employability. Our goal is to further develop them and bring them closer to students - added Hota-Muminović.

The best results were achieved by students from the Hadžići Vocational Center, while second and third place went to students from the Sarajevo School of Transport and Communications and the Metal Trades High School Sarajevo.



The director of the host school, Emilija Martinčević, highlighted that the organization of this competition holds special significance for vocational secondary education.