From 6 to 9 May 2025, the MetaVET consortium convened in Brașov, Romania, for its first in-person project meeting. Hosted by Iceberg Plus, the meeting represented a major milestone in the project’s implementation and a valuable opportunity to strengthen collaboration across the partnership.
MetaVET aims to revolutionise vocational education in the Western Balkans by introducing metaverse-based learning environments and training in collaborative robotics (cobots).
The meeting brought together all seven project partners:
Iceberg Plus (Romania) – project coordinator, specialising in business development, innovation, and entrepreneurship training;
AREA (Italy) – expert in knowledge transfer, communication, digital training, sustainability and innovation in vocational education.
FabLab Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – innovation and technology hub contributing to pilot implementation and infrastructure;
University Sarajevo School of Science and Technology – SSST (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – providing academic expertise in curriculum development and stakeholder engagement;
Nikšić Secondary Vocational School (Montenegro) – pilot school involved in curriculum testing and validation;
Secondary School Centre “Nedžad Ibrišimović” Ilijaš (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – pilot school and key partner in engaging VET learners;
Centre for Vocational Education of Montenegro – CSO (Montenegro) – national authority for VET reform and implementation.
Throughout the meeting, partners shared updates on the project’s overall coordination, curriculum co-design with stakeholders, and the development of the online training platform, including the integration of metaverse technology. Discussions also focused on the implementation of the “Train the Trainers” initiative, school engagement strategies, technical readiness for piloting activities, and outreach efforts through the project website, social media channels, and stakeholder engagement tools. A dedicated session explored how these elements could be better integrated, with an emphasis on strengthening feedback loops, fostering collaboration, and ensuring coherence across all project actions.
The meeting also featured field visits to relevant local institutions. A visit to Kronstad VET School provided the opportunity to engage with students, staff, and local teaching methods. The final visit to Caditech, an automation SME, offered practical insights into workforce needs and the relevance of cobots in industrial contexts.
The event also marked the recording of the first episode of the MetaVET podcast, which will share the voices, stories, and ambitions driving the project forward.
The Brașov meeting underscored the strength of the MetaVET partnership and the collective ambition to foster future-oriented, inclusive vocational education. Through cross-border collaboration and innovative technologies, MetaVET is empowering learners, educators, and institutions across the Western Balkans.
Stay informed by following our website, social media channels (Linkedin and X), and podcast series as MetaVET continues to shape the future of vocational education.
