Students of the Textile Engineering study program at the University of Banja Luka Faculty of Technology, Danijela Irić, Elvisa Čirkić and Ljubica Ćirić, together with Sara Lakić, Senior Teaching Assistant at the Faculty, participated in a two-week workshop held from 12 to 23 October 2026 in São João da Madeira, Portugal, as part of the Erasmus+ project 3F-COOP – Footwear Fast Forward Cooperation.
The workshop represented an important stage in the implementation of project activities and focused on piloting the developed educational content and its application through practical work. The Portuguese Footwear Technology Centre organized the workshop and also coordinates the project, while the University of Banja Luka Faculty of Technology is one of the project partners.
The workshop program included professional and practical activities aimed at familiarizing participants with current trends in the footwear industry, with a particular focus on the development and application of new and sustainable materials, digital technologies, 3D printing, and environmentally friendly and circular production practices. By working with experts and learning about contemporary technological solutions, the students had the opportunity to expand their knowledge, connect theoretical knowledge with practical application, and gain insight into innovative approaches shaping the future of this industrial sector.
A special part of the program consisted of visits to manufacturing facilities and companies in the footwear industry, during which the students gained first-hand insight into production processes, the application of modern technologies, and the principles of sustainable business practices. They also visited the Shoe Museum (Museu do Calçado), where they learned more about the tradition, development, and significance of the footwear industry in the Portuguese economy.
Their stay in Portugal also provided an opportunity to explore local culture, traditions, and gastronomy, as well as to exchange experiences and establish contacts with local residents. During their mobility, they also visited the cities of Porto, Espinho, and Santa Maria da Feira, adding an important cultural and international dimension to the activity.
The participation of the Faculty of Technology in this workshop contributes to strengthening practical competencies, internationalizing education, and connecting academic knowledge with the needs of modern industry. At the same time, piloting the developed educational content in an international setting contributes to improving the quality of training and developing the skills required for the digital and sustainable transformation of the footwear industry.
