A new technical secondary school opened in Nová Páce, Jičínsko in September, initiated by local firms SQS Vláknová optika and Quittner & Schimek. The school aims to revitalize interest in technical education within the Jičínsko region, which has faced a long-term decline in this area. The companies are investing ten million Czech crowns annually to fund the school’s operations, enabling students to attend tuition-free. This initiative allows students practical experience and experimentation within a technical field. The founders hope this will address the skills gap and provide a pipeline of qualified workers for the local technology sector. This is the first technical lyceum established in the area. The school represents a significant investment in the future workforce of the region.