After 40 years of unemployment, economist Brankica Dodig from the western-Bosnian town of Drvar, finally got a job at the garments and knitwear factory "Jumko" which will be officially opened next week in this town.
In the past 40 years, Brankica worked several jobs off the books, but she only a few years of recorded, legal work experience.
“I worked non-stop and did everything. I only didn't fly a plane,” Brankica said.
The “Jumko” factory will employ 80 women and their three-month training has already begun.
“I like it here, it's nice and the conditions are ideal. Eighty women are employed here. The training lasts until March 19. that's three paid months, and no one pays you while you're undergoing training. These are women who've never worked with a sewing machine, but there's progress – they've already learned something here,” Brankica said.
When it comes to sewing, Brankic has about 40 years of experience, because her mother bought her a sewing machine when she was 14, she is self-taught, but she sewed regularly at home.
“When the employment add came up, I said – ok, I'll apply for it. Although, I never expected they would hire me. I am older, there are many young women here, but there. I didn't have any special connections for the job, and everyone found that a little strange,” Brankic said laughing.
Brankica was never picky when it comes to working, she said the loves to work and to know how to do everything.
“I went to a hairdressing course and I've been doing this for years, so it wasn't in a hurry to go work somewhere else,” Brankica says.
Although many are leaving Drvar with a population of about 7,000, Brankica, claims that there are many young people willing to work in this town.
Speaking about her retirement, she said she does not expect the fulfil all the conditions for it
“I have little work experience, and according to the law, I can still work for the next five years. I cannot get a pension for those ten years of experience I will have, maybe some old-age income. Although I honestly would not mind getting a pension,” Brankica said.
She said she has no special plans for the first salary she will receive.
“There's nothing special, most of it will go to my grandchildren,” Brankica said.
