1. Acquisition of Craft Skills: Our first objective was to equip young people with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in four key areas of traditional crafts (leather processing, household items made of soil and clay, knitting and wooden products) . By providing hands-on training and workshops, we aimed to enhance the employability of participants in the craft sector. The training was designed to be thorough, ensuring that participants not only learn the basics but also gain proficiency in these crafts, making them competitive candidates for employment or entrepreneurship in the artisanal industry. 2. Artistic and Creative Development: The second objective was to foster artistic expression and creativity among the youth. We sought to encourage participants to explore and develop their unique artistic talents, thereby producing original and innovative designs in traditional crafts. This aspect of the project aimed to increase the quality, innovation, and recognition of young people's work. By nurturing their creative abilities, we hoped to inspire a new generation of artisans who could blend tradition with modern aesthetics, thereby contributing to the evolution and sustainability of the craft sector.
The decision to apply for the Erasmus+ project FTTI was driven by several critical needs identified within our community and beyond. Firstly, there was a noticeable decline in traditional craft skills among the youth, leading to the potential loss of valuable cultural heritage and artisanal techniques. Traditional crafts, such as weaving, sewing, leather processing, and earthenware production, have historically been significant in our local economies and cultural expressions. Furthermore, youth unemployment has been a persistent issue, particularly in the regions represented by the participating organizations. Many young people lack practical skills that can enhance their employability in a competitive job market. Traditional crafts offer viable career opportunities, but there has been a lack of structured training programs to impart these skills effectively. By addressing this gap, we aim to provide young people with the tools they need to enter the job market confidently. Additionally, there is a pressing need to foster creativity and innovation among youth. By integrating creative development with skill acquisition, we seek to revitalize these crafts, making them appealing and relevant to contemporary contexts.