Latvian education system, currently experiencing reforms, foresees a transition from the system approach to competencies approach at all levels of education. Although Zemgale Planning Regionl partner in E-COOL, cannot yet influence policy instruments, since reforms are still going on, they have adapted the Italian partner's good practice example “Giovani Innovators in Azienda”, promoted by Puglia region, launching a competition to develop entrepreneurial skills in young people.
The competition is organized by Zemgale Planning Region in cooperation with Zemgale municipalities and educational institutions, entrepreneurs of Zemgale region - sponsors of the competition and Junior Achievement - Young Enterprise Latvia.
Main aim of the competition is to develop students' creativity and entrepreneurial competences.
Entrepreneurs in the Zemgale region proposed young people challenges, such as creating a new product ad, developing a firm logo, etc. The pupils in the region were able to choose which of the challenges they wish to answer to and submit their proposals for evaluation. It is planned that in the final event of the competition, entrepreneurs will briefly explain whether the work submitted from a business point of view is successful, what should be changed or improved.
The experience facilitates the exchange of experiences between students and entrepreneurs, stimulates the students' interest and strengthens their understanding of the business environment and economic fundamentals related to the promotion and marketing of the product.
