NextGen Entrepreneurs – International BIP Programme on Entrepreneurship

The Erasmus+ BIP programme NextGen Entrepreneurs, organised in collaboration with AVANS University and ISLA Gaia in Porto, brought together students from across Europe to develop entrepreneurial ideas, strengthen future-oriented skills, and pitch startup concepts to investors in an interactive Dragon’s Den format.

Panel Discussion & Book Promotion: ”Psychology of Management” (Assoc. Prof. Gordana Nikolic, PhD)

The panel discussion and book promotion ”Psychology of Management” explored the importance of mental health, communication, leadership, and student expectations in today’s evolving business environment. Bringing together academics, students, and professionals, the event encouraged dialogue on the future of work, emotional intelligence, and human-centered organisations. Through discussions on psychology and management, participants reflected on how educational institutions and businesses can create healthier, more inclusive, and sustainable workplaces for future generations.

Dual Education Through Student Eyes

PAR students stepped into the role of guest lecturers to present their experiences with dual education to high school seniors. Through stories of balancing academics and sports, Erasmus exchanges, and hands-on learning, they offered relatable, real-life insights into student life at PAR. The event sparked a conversation on educational models in Croatia and abroad, highlighting the value of practical learning and international mobility as part of the dual study experience.

PILC 2025 – Transformational Leadership in the Digital Era

PILC 2025, the 14th PAR International Leadership Conference, gathered scholars, professionals and students in Opatija and Rijeka to explore transformational leadership in the digital era. Focusing on the future of work, the event addressed empathetic leadership, managing digital generations and building resilient, innovative organisations. The conference served as a platform for exchanging research, strategies and skills essential for navigating leadership challenges in a fast-evolving global landscape.

Dual Model in Action: Designing Solutions for Maritime Center of Excellence

PAR students visited the Maritime Center of Excellence as part of their final exam in the Management of SMEs course, where company representatives presented core operations and posed a real business challenge. Applying the dual education model, students combined classroom knowledge with hands-on problem solving, working on innovative proposals in response to the company’s needs. The activity strengthened collaboration between education and industry, encouraging practical learning, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial mindset development.

Dual Perspectives: PAR x DHBW Learning Exchange

As part of a tailored dual education programme, PAR University of Applied Sciences hosted students from DHBW for a two-week international exchange combining academic content, company visits, and collaborative project work. The programme focused on future of work competencies, intercultural communication, and applied research. Students explored the Croatian business environment and co-developed business podcast concepts, gaining practical insight and experience through an innovative learning model that connects higher education with real-world challenges.

How to Nurture Dual Careers in Professional Athletes

PAR University of Applied Sciences hosted a session exploring how to support dual careers in professional athletes, as part of the EU4Dual Grand Challenge on Healthy Living. Featuring PAR alumni and sports professionals, the event highlighted the importance of balancing academic development with athletic careers. Through personal stories and open discussion, participants examined educational pathways, flexible learning models, and the role of institutions in helping athletes thrive both in sport and beyond.

Industry Forum on Dual Education in Croatia

As part of Career Days at PAR, the Industry Forum on Dual Education in Croatia gathered company representatives to present their work environments and internship opportunities. Each company offered insight into how student practice is integrated within their organisation, highlighting the value of mentorship, flexibility, and skill development. The event reinforced the importance of cooperation between higher education and employers in shaping relevant, hands-on learning experiences through the dual education model.

EU4Dual First Young Researcher School

PAR University of Applied Sciences hosted five early-stage researchers from MCAST as part of the First EU4Dual Young Researcher School, aimed at building research capacity within the alliance. The programme included mentoring, peer collaboration, and individual research development focused on dual education and the Grand Challenges. Through seminars, institutional visits, and networking, participants gained valuable insights into applied research practices, fostering cross-institutional learning and strengthening the alliance’s academic cooperation.

PAR Business Camp 2025: From Idea to Impact

Hosted in Rijeka, the camp brought together over 70 international students for workshops, lectures and project-based collaboration. Participants visited two regional development agencies and developed original business podcast concepts. The programme strengthened entrepreneurial skills, cross-cultural teamwork, and innovation through real-world experiences, reflecting PAR’s commitment to applied, interdisciplinary education.