BRIDGE BETWEEN SCHOOL AND WORK: THE ROLE OF DUAL EDUCATION

Abstract

Modern social changes have influenced the need to apply new educational models that will contribute to better teaching quality. Dual education has proven to be one of the most successful educational systems, as it integrates and connects students’ theoretical knowledge with practical experience. This system has shown great success in many European countries, especially in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, where it has been implemented for years, resulting in very low unemployment rates and better workforce preparedness.The dual system, which takes place simultaneously in school and in a company, enables students to acquire knowledge in a real work environment, develop professional skills, and transition more easily into the labor market. Dual education includes a number of key elements, such as joint participation of the state and the private sector, the definition of quality standards, training for teachers and mentors, balancing theoretical and practical content, and continuous system development. The advantages of this model are reflected in benefits for individuals—such as skills development and employability; for society—through social integration and stability; and for the private sector—through a qualified workforce and increased productivity. However, the implementation of dual education faces numerous challenges: limited mobility of acquired knowledge, lack of long-term employment, low company motivation, administrative barriers, the risk of overly narrow specialization of students, and the absence of specific legislation regulating this area, particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the process of introducing the dual model is still in development. While the Republic of Srpska has a legal framework, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is still working on adopting appropriate regulations. It is necessary to establish legislation that will regulate the dual education system, adapt the model to regional differences, strengthen cooperation between schools and businesses, and motivate employers through incentives and subsidies. To overcome existing obstacles, it is recommended to improve partnerships between schools and companies, provide training for mentors and teachers, raise public awareness, offer financial support to students, and establish clear legal frameworks. In addition, it is important to increase the attractiveness of dual education for students. This can be achieved by providing financial compensation for time spent in training. Scholarships and paid internships motivate students to engage more actively in learning through work. Successful implementation of dual education in Bosnia and Herzegovina requires gradual introduction, continuous evaluation, and adaptation to the specific needs of the labor market. A key role is played by partnerships between schools and the private sector, through jointly creating curricula aligned with market needs. Finally, continuous monitoring and evaluation of the program are essential, along with the gradual introduction of reforms tailored to the specific needs of Bosnia and Herzegovina.