More than 200 high school students from 36 municipalities across Bosnia and Herzegovina took part in the biggest business challenge competition for youth, organised for the 7th year in a row. Hardworking young and bright minds gathered in Sarajevo for the three day finals, officially opened at the EU Info Centre, competition partner.
“For the European Union, support to education and employment is at the heart of our policies and activities. We are proud to say that we are the biggest donor in the sectors and are planning additional EUR 30 million from IPA 2019-2020,” said Richard Maša, Head of Cooperation of the Delegation of the European Union to Bosnia and Herzegovina, to the finalists. “It is a great pleasure to see that all of you who have participated in this challenge are leading the way for others. We are well aware of the great things you are capable of, and we are glad to support you and help you reach your potential, we do not take your presence here for granted,” underlined Maša.
At four semi-finals held in Tuzla, Sarajevo, Mostar and Banja Luka, participants had the difficult task of coming up with innovative business solutions to some of the most pressing social and environmental issues, guided by mentors, former contestants, and now successful and active young people. Their last task is no less challenging; they will have to develop business solutions focusing on the needs of the elderly with an emphasis on inter-generational cooperation and innovative solutions.
“The Business Challenge enables students to develop an entrepreneurial spirit and increased awareness of the need to be proactive in society and in the labour market. It supports the development of their problem-solving skills and ideas, team work, analytical thinking, presentation skills, and helps improve their self-confidence, which is especially important considering the high levels of youth unemployment in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Jan Zlatan Kulenović, Director of Munja Incubator of Social Innovations, competition organiser.
