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Young Refugees’ AI Student Empowerment Program

2021-2-DE04-KA220-YOU-0000503432021Cooperation partnerships in youthfinalized
Countries: DE|IT|RO|CY · Grant: €325,359
Digital content, technologies and practicesEqual access and transition to labour marketYouth employability

Objectives

The project’s main goal was to support young migrants and refugees in integrating into the labour market through a tailored, three-part approach: 1) AI-based skill assessment, 2) a customised learning plan, and 3) practical guidance to offer workshops in local communities. This enables participants to gain relevant skills, reassess their progress, build networks, and start potential careers as educators or trainers. This approach aligns with the EU's goals for building more integrated and inclusive societies (EU Action Plan on Integration and Inclusion, 2021-2027). The project’s second goal was to support youth workers by using advanced AI tools that allow for personalised educational programs. The adaptable framework, based on expert decision models, helps youth workers offer personalised coaching efficiently, saving time and resources. This approach responds directly to the EU Action Plan’s call for “targeted training for youth workers” to better support young migrants’ integration.

Background

The unemployment gap between native-born and refugee/migrant youth remains wide (Eurostat, 2020), with foreign-born youth more likely to be out of employment, education, or training (UNHCR, 2019). Essential for successful workforce integration are skills assessment, customised educational programs, and networking opportunities. Yet, the varied backgrounds of young migrants make standardised approaches ineffective (FRA, 2019), underscoring the need for individualised learning and VET opportunities (OECD, 2019). Current skill assessments often lack targeted support for bridging knowledge gaps and building networks. Erasmus+ project, “Young Volunteer Educators e-Learning Program”, revealed the need for personalised skill assessments and learning plans for refugees/migrants, and support for youth workers who spend time on individual consultations due to one-size-fits-all plans. The EU Action Plan on Integration & Inclusion (2021-2027) stresses addressing the employment and education challenges of migrants, taking into account "the specific challenges and needs of different groups", emphasising 1) skill assessments, 2) bridging education gaps, 3) enhanced migrant-community exchanges, 4) digital tools for integration at each stage.

Project partners (5)