To ensure students are equipped for the digital transformation reshaping industry, ABB has delivered 36 GoFa™ collaborative robots (cobots) to 30 technical high schools across Slovenia. Supported by the Slovenian Ministry of Education and co-financed by the European Union’s Next Generation EU initiative, this program brings real-world industrial robotics into the classroom—bridging the gap between education and Industry 4.0.
Preparing Students for Tomorrow’s Jobs
With an aim to prepare the students for technical jobs in the future, this initiative introduces students to the same technologies used in advanced manufacturing environments. Each school received ABB’s GoFa™ cobots, supported by RobotStudio® simulation and programming software, giving students hands-on experience in applications such as Pick & Place, quality inspection, and even 3D printing. By integrating ABB’s leading-edge automation solutions into their curriculum, schools are providing students with critical skills aligned with industry need-ensuring a smoother transition from education to employment.
Intuitive, Accessible, and Industry-Ready
The GoFa™ cobots are designed for safe and collaborative interaction, allowing students—even those with no prior experience in robotics—to engage confidently with automation technology. Using ABB’s RobotStudio®, students can simulate, program, and test robotic applications in a virtual environment before deploying them in real life. This end-to-end experience mirrors professional engineering workflows and enhances students' readiness for the factory floor.
Real Impact on Technical Education
Since implementation, the initiative has transformed technical education across Slovenia. Students are now engaging with cutting-edge tools that mirror those found in modern smart factories. This exposure fosters practical problem-solving skills, creativity, and confidence—key traits for future automation engineers and technicians.
‘ABB’s collaborative robots are transforming the classroom into a hands-on learning environment— making training both interactive and safe. Students are gaining practical skills with real industrial technologies, preparing them to step confidently into the smart factories of the future’ - Sandra RikićTeacher at School center Nova mesto
Educators have reported increased student engagement and enthusiasm, with many institutions citing a surge in interest in robotics and automation-focused career paths.
Investing in the Workforce of the Future
By embedding GoFa™ cobots into secondary education, ABB is helping to shape a digitally competent and technically skilled workforce for the future. This project reflects ABB’s ongoing commitment to innovation, education, and collaboration—with a clear vision of empowering the next generation to thrive in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.
ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation as one of the world’s leading robotics and machine automation suppliers, is the only company with a comprehensive and integrated portfolio covering robots, Autonomous Mobile Robots and machine automation solutions, designed and orchestrated by our value-creating software. We help companies of all sizes and sectors - from automotive to electronics and logistics – to outperform by becoming more resilient, flexible and efficient. ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation supports customers in the transition towards the connected and collaborative factory of the future, operating leaner and cleaner for a better future. The business area employs approximately 11,000 people at over 100 locations in approximately 53 countries. go.abb/robotics
