MIND Education center
About this good practice
MIND Park, located in the heart of Šumadija, was launched in 2018 as a project of strategic importance for the Republic of Serbia. Beyond providing design and construction of industrial and office spaces, the MIND Group offers comprehensive support to companies, with a special emphasis on business setup and operations, as well as on training and workforce development aimed at creating a skilled labour force. To that end, MIND Group established MIND Education (MIND Edu), which has built successful partnerships with secondary schools in Kragujevac through the implementation of vocational practice and dual education programs. In collaboration with the Vocational Secondary School and the National Employment Service, MIND Edu has organized training programs for professions such as locksmith-welders, CNC operators, and industrial mechanics. In partnership with the Fraunhofer Institute from Germany, MIND Edu has delivered specialized courses and training for adhesive bonding operators and specialists, introducing advanced technological skills into the local industrial ecosystem. MIND Group initiated dual education at the higher education level in partnership with the Academy of Vocational Studies Šumadija. MIND Edu provides a broad range of professional development services, including soft skills and technical skills training, professional qualifications, internships, apprenticeships, supporting individuals and the local community in strengthening workforce capacity.
Resources needed
MIND is connected to all major state roads, international highway and future Rail Corridor X. It is equipped with world-class infrastructure, fiber-optic networks, gas supply and electricity. Kragujevac, the home of MIND Park, is a university center which provides young and educated workforce.
Evidence of success
More than 300 individuals have been trained in occupations such as CNC operator, aluminum and steel welder, locksmith operator, and industrial mechanic for different companies. In partnership with the Faculty of Engineering, a new master’s program is being established. Students have the opportunity to undertake internships within one of the companies from the MIND Group. MIND Edu has also officially been recognized as a Publicly Recognized Organizer of Adult Education Activities (JPOA).
Potential for learning or transfer
This good practice demonstrates how collaboration between a successful enterprise, local universities, vocational schools, research centers, and the wider business community can drive innovation, enhance competitiveness, and create mutual benefits for all stakeholders. It also contributes to the local community by helping to reduce youth unemployment. Currently, the region faces a limited pool of skilled workers, resulting in increased workloads and growing concerns about workforce availability. Addressing this challenge requires proactive measures focused on skills development, to ensure the labor market is prepared for structural changes and to achieve the best possible economic outcomes. Regions undergoing similar transitions can benefit from adopting comparable support centers that foster inclusive and sustainable transformation, while simultaneously building local capacity and resilience.
Further information
MIND Group
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Good practice owner
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