Foreword

Dear and respected colleagues,

Welcome to our little guide to the world of modern education. In a time of rapid change, where technology and social norms are constantly evolving, it is our responsibility to ensure that education systems not only respond to current needs but also anticipate future demands. In this sense, the aim of our conference was to bring together leading experts, researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers from different fields of education to discuss how to prepare children and young people for a future that is unpredictable, complex and dynamic. The conference was thematically divided into seven sections: Education for Personal and Professional Development, Education for Social and Cultural Diversity, Education for Innovation and Research, Education for Sustainable Development, Education for Digital Transformation, The Importance of Art Education for the Cognitive, Social and Emotional Development of Children and Youth, and Kinesiology Education and Sport. Over two days, the conference was attended by more than 260 participants from Croatia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, North Macedonia, Saudi Arabia, Slovenia, and Serbia.

These proceedings offer insights into various aspects of education: from the importance of personal development to inclusive practices that promote social justice and diversity. Some of the papers touch on the role of technology in education and the ways in which digital tools can improve the learning and teaching process. At a time when online platforms have become an indispensable part of the educational experience, it is important to understand how to best use them to support learning. Also, one of the key topics is the development of competencies necessary for success in the 21st century. The authors explore how we can foster creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and entrepreneurship – traits and skills that are becoming increasingly important in a globalized world, where future leaders and innovators are expected to be able to navigate increasingly complex situations.

There are two criteria by which the papers are included in the proceedings. The first is: they meet the expected quality, i.e. received two, double-blind, positive reviews each. The second is: the author(s) presented the paper at the conference and were motivated enough to write it within the stipulated (or extended J) deadline.

I believe that these works will inspire and motivate you to further reflect and research on how we can work together to improve education for all.

Non progredi est regredi.

See you at STOO6 in 2026.

President of the Conference Program Committee

Dubravka Miljkovic, professor emerita