The second international study visit of the project, hosted by the Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation, took place in Belgrade, Serbia, from 3^rd to 8^th June 2024. The main aim was to provide youth workers and representatives of organizations with an opportunity to explore local and regional practices in inter-sectoral cooperation, with a particular emphasis on the topics of digitalization and sustainability.

This international activity involved visits to youth organizations, companies, educational institutions, and career centers, with the goal of learning from successful models, networking, and developing new partnerships across sectors. The study visit utilized non-formal education methods and tools, promoted active participation of participants, and emphasized learning through field visits and analysis of case studies.

Over the course of six intensive working days, 18 participants – staff members from participating organizations, visited representatives from all sectors of the triangle, including industry (labor market), education, and youth, to foster a conducive environment for networking, sharing of best practices, and mutual learning. By engaging with actors from all three sectors, participants had the chance to exchange best practices, discuss challenges, and co-create ideas for future collaboration.

The study visit kicked off with the introduction of the Youth Participation Index by the hosts, highlighting challenges such as brain drain, low employment rates, and NEET risks in the region. A session on data for youth employment and entrepreneurship underlined the importance of reliable statistics for shaping policies and opening regional opportunities

The group also explored innovative initiatives in the IT sector. At ‘IT Bootcamp Belgrade’, participants learned how free, donor-supported training programs are reskilling unemployed people for careers in the technology industry. The visit to ‘NCR Voyix’, one of the largest IT employers in the region, showcased the company’s global operations, diverse workforce, and innovative “first official job” program for young graduates. In addition, a guided tour of the ‘Science and Technology Park Belgrade’ provided insights into startup incubation, entrepreneurial education, and programs like ‘ParkUp!’ and ‘Raising Stars’, which support students and early-stage businesses

Inclusion was another key focus of the study visit. The ‘Youth with Disabilities Forum (YDF)’ shared its pioneering work in economic empowerment, career centers, and its online Portal for Employment of Persons with Disabilities. Participants also visited the National Employment Service of Serbia, where they were introduced to flagship programs such as ‘My First Salary’, the Virtual Employment Fair, and Serbia’s Youth Guarantee scheme. Beyond the professional agenda, the group explored the Museum of Yugoslavia, connecting historical context with current challenges and future opportunities for youth cooperation

The Belgrade study visit combined institutional visits, cultural activities, and reflective sessions, creating space for participants to exchange experiences and co-develop ideas for future partnerships. Participants emphasized the value of learning directly from successful models, gaining new contacts, and understanding regional labor market dynamics. The impact of the visit will continue to resonate through strengthened networks, practical insights, and collaborative projects aimed at tackling youth unemployment and advancing digital and sustainable opportunities across the Western Balkans