In the framework of the First COLOURS Annual Conference held in Osijek, a special Pre-Conference Day was scheduled on 23 October 2024 to feature field study visits to the company Jabil Inc. and to the BIOS Business Incubator in Osijek.
The COLOURS Field Study gathered more than 50 students, professors, scientists, professionals and experts in various disciplines from COLOURS partner Universities and associated partners from Germany, Italy, Spain, Latvia, Poland, North Macedonia, France and Sweden, as well as representatives of local Croatian academic community.
The objective of this activity was to introduce the COLOURS partners to the work and innovative projects that are implemented within the local business community in Osijek and that contribute to the strengthening of ties between the industry, educational institutions and the local community.
At Jabil, presentations were given by Sanja Bavrka, Human Resources Manager, and Andrea Božić, Training Manager. Jabil’s representatives provided an overview of the company’s operations and their partnerships with various economic sectors. They also highlighted the strategic decision to establish the Jabil’s facility in Osijek, emphasising the proximity to Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek as a crucial factor in attracting highly educated future employees and well-trained workforce with highly profiled digital skills. Jabil’s representatives outlined Jabil’s advanced technology levels and innovation in production. They also shared future plans for collaboration with the University, including opportunities for student internships, scholarships, and developmental research partnerships. COLOURS Field Study participants were particularly interested in enabling collaboration with Jabil across various technical fields and research areas pursued at their home institutions.
As a global leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics solutions, Jabil focuses on integrating digital solutions across industries, such as automotive, healthcare, and transportation, thus contributing to the digital transformation of the society. Committed to corporate social responsibility, Jabil actively promotes engagement within local communities, strengthening social ties and supporting environmental goals. With a strong emphasis on the well-being, safety, and continuous development of its workforce, Jabil exemplifies its role as a community-focused employer dedicated to overall growth and prosperity of community.
The COLOURS Field Study Visit on the topic of Smart Specialisation in IT & Digital Transformation, proceeded with the visit to the BIOS Business Incubator in Osijek, where the participants were welcomed by Igor Medić, BIOS Director, and Jean-Pierre Maričić, Head of the BIOS Project and Procurement Department. They presented BIOS’s goals and activities, and showcased the business incubator’s growth over the years. Highlight was put on the Triple Helix model as a core aspect of BIOS’s work, representing collaboration between the business, public, and academic sectors, with a strong focus on partnerships with the City of Osijek and Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek.
Participants were introduced to two companies seated at BIOS. Dr. Benjamin Banai presented Banai Analytics, a company engaged in projects on environmental protection and climate change. Professor Banai shared insights into over 30 projects he has contributed to across academia and the business sector, covering diverse fields, such as youth mental health, mobile game development, market research, tourism, and waste management.
Next, Professor Željko Hederić introduced the Laboratory for Electric Machines and Hybrid Drive Systems, an entrepreneurial venture from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and Information Technology Osijek. He outlined the laboratory work on advanced testing of electric machines and drives, designing and redesigning drive systems for industry, and developing innovative hybrid drive systems that combine the advantages of electric machines with other types of engines, such as internal combustion engines, compressed air, and hydrogen fuel cells. Professor Hederić emphasised their work on professional training of future engineers and doctoral candidates while advancing the integration of scientific knowledge into practical applications for industry.
BIOS plays a critical role in supporting start-ups and SMEs in ICT, biotechnology, and other sectors by providing affordable office spaces and essential resources. The incubator fosters a collaborative environment where small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can share resources, exchange knowledge, and embark on innovative projects. BIOS’s initiatives align closely with the goals of the COLOURS Alliance, which focuses on smart specialisation and innovation-driven economic growth.
These field visits to Jabil Inc. and BIOS Business Incubator underscored the impact of local enterprises and incubators in driving digital innovation and entrepreneurship. Through on-site interactions, participants gained a deeper understanding of how organisations like Jabil and BIOS harness collaboration and technology to create sustainable community growth and contribute to Osijek’s vibrant economic landscape.
