The Callidus institution is a partner in an EU project worth HRK 102 million

The project establishes a regional competence center in Dubrovnik, which will generate the best human potential for the needs of tourism and gastronomy

With the ceremonial signing, that is, the handing over of the contract for the realization of the Center of Competence in Tourism and Hospitality in Dubrovnik, almost HRK 102 million has been officially secured for that project. The Regional Center of Competence in Dubrovnik will develop occupational standards, qualifications and professional curriculum for the qualifications of gastronome chefs and general chefs. In addition to the above, standards and educational programs in adult education will also be developed for the following qualifications: specialist chef, animator, wine sommelier, olive oil sommelier, cheese sommelier, chef specialist in side dishes, stews and side dishes, chef specialist in pasta dishes and rice, a chef specializing in Dalmatian (Dubrovan) cuisine, a chef specializing in hot appetizers and a chef specializing in cold appetizers. All these skills are very much needed in the labor market, as evidenced by the interest of leading hotel chains. Considering the scope of the qualifications, the regional center of competence in hospitality and tourism in Dubrovnik will be profiled as a center of excellence that will generate the best and highest quality human potential in the tourism-hospitality segment of gastronomy.

The Regional Center of Competence in Tourism and Hospitality in Dubrovnik will implement the project entitled "Establishment of the Regional Center of Competence in Tourism and Hospitality Dubrovnik". The main activities of the project will be focused on the implementation of work-based education, training and training in tourism and catering, according to the needs of employers. Thus, the project's activities will be carried out in partnership with the founding Dubrovnik-Neretva County, the Center for Entrepreneurship DNŽ, four reputable hotel employers and Mint Media. Also, the project ensured cooperation with educational institutions, namely three secondary vocational schools of tourism and catering, one vocational school with agrotourism, with the University of Dubrovnik and with Callidus adult education institution.

The signed Grant Agreement in the total amount of HRK 72,399,069.29, 85 percent of which was financed with funds from the European Social Fund, and 15 percent from the state budget. The allocated funds cover 100 percent of eligible costs related to the activities of establishing a regional center of competence. In addition to the domestic partners mentioned, the collaboration with the Basque Culinary Center, which is one of the most famous and innovative culinary centers in the world, is particularly noteworthy. The Basque Culinary Center will actively participate in the development process of the Dubrovnik regional competence center, in the development and implementation of educational programs for adult education and lifelong learning, in the development of secondary vocational education and in the establishment of the HUB for innovation and entrepreneurship. On the other hand, within the framework of the Basque Culinary Center, professional training and highly specialized certified professional training of educational workers and mentors will be carried out, and study visits will be provided to exchange experiences and examples of good practice.