In realising this project, we aimed to increase the employability of vulnerable VET graduates who require additional support in the transition from education to the labour market. Our main goal was to implement effective support mechanisms that will help young people develop key professional and soft skills, build a positive attitude towards work and increase their competitiveness in the labour market. The project aimed to: 1. Strengthen the preparation of VET graduates for entering the labour market by: Increasing their self-awareness of personal and professional skills; Shaping a positive attitude towards work, 2. Strengthen intermediary institutions, VET and their staff by: Improving methods of career guidance, career management and motivation building for graduates; Better linking vocational education to the labour market by building stronger relationships with employers; Promoting effective job placement mechanisms; Benefits of better matching internships and apprenticeships to the needs of graduates and employers.
We applied for this project because we wanted to respond to the pressing challenges of integrating young people, especially those in vulnerable situations, into the labour market. One in five people in Europe is unemployed, and young people with disabilities, learning difficulties and socio-cultural barriers have a particularly difficult start to their careers. In the face of increasing competitiveness in the labour market and the growing number of young people at risk of exclusion, it was necessary to develop effective mechanisms to support their transition from education to employment. The project addressed the following needs: 1. Increasing the effectiveness of apprenticeship programmes in VET schools. 2. Preventing early school leaving. 3. Supporting the integration of VET graduates into the labour market. 4. Strengthening cooperation between schools and enterprises. 5. Development of European strategies to counter youth unemployment. In summary, the project addressed key needs related to education, employment and social integration of young people, especially those at risk of exclusion, and contributed to their empowerment in the labour market through the description of effective support systems and work practices.