The silver medal was won by florist Jarko Ilves from Räpina School of Horticulture. The Medallion for Excellence, awarded to participants who reach an international high standard in their field, went to: chef Anette Raasik (Tartu Vocational College), restaurant service specialist Getter Juhe (Haapsalu Vocational Education and Training Centre), graphic designer Arli Orlovski (Tartu Art School), automobile technology specialist Romario Voksepp (Kuressaare Regional Training Centre), and IT systems administrators Andreas Gabriel Vannas and Andreas Laaniste (Haapsalu Vocational Education and Training Centre and Tallinn Polytechnic School).
Minister of Education and Research Kristina Kallas emphasised that the success of young people demonstrates the strength and necessity of Estonian vocational education: “Estonian students have once again shown that their skills and knowledge are at an international level. These medals are not just competition results but confirm that vocational education offers young people a reliable path to the labour market and opens doors across Europe. I congratulate the students, their trainers, and the school support teams who contribute to young people’s development.”
Head of the Education Innovation Department at Harno, Liina Kanter, added: “The medals are a great recognition, but the experience itself is just as important. EuroSkills means three days on the international stage, full of nerves, precision, and concentration. Our young people managed it brilliantly and proved that Estonian vocational education can be just as strong as in larger countries.”
Silver medallist Jarko Ilves himself wishes to pass on his knowledge to new florists: “Having my own flower shop would be nice, but I definitely see myself as a teacher in the future. I really like this field, the people, and the emotions that come with it. I also don’t rule out the possibility of testing myself one day as an expert at EuroSkills.”
EuroSkills Herning 2025 brought together nearly 600 young professionals from 32 countries, competing over three days in 38 different skills categories. Estonia’s results stood out for their consistency and quality, proving that our young people are ready to compete with the best in Europe.
The Estonian medal winners were trained by Pille Peterson, Gen Lee, Kristi Tiido, Kairi Timusk, Karl-Kevin Miinpuu, Kersti Õim, Janika Nõmmela, and Margus Kivi.
The participation of the Estonian team at EuroSkills was coordinated by the Estonian Education and Youth Board (Harno). EuroSkills is Europe’s largest vocational skills competition, held biennially. It brings together young vocational students and professionals up to the age of 25 who are the best in their countries in various skills areas – from technology and engineering to services and creative fields. Over three days, participants complete complex tasks in line with the highest standards of their professions. The competition helps raise the profile of vocational education, showcase professional skills, and broaden young people’s career opportunities across Europe.
