We aimed to strengthen career management skills (CMS) among young adults and improve the quality and accessibility of lifelong guidance within adult education. Our main objective was to empower participants to identify their strengths, interests, and values, explore career opportunities, and make informed decisions about their professional pathways in a rapidly changing labor market. We also sought to enhance career adaptability, digital readiness, and self-directed learning competences, enabling young adults to better respond to technological change and evolving employment demands. At the same time, the project aimed to increase the competencies of adult educators by providing them with innovative tools, digital resources, and a structured methodology for delivering career guidance. Through the development of an online portal, self-assessment tools, interactive learning materials, and a teacher’s manual, we intended to create sustainable, flexible, and transferable resources that strengthen the link between lifelong learning and lifelong guidance across partner countries.
We applied for the DISCOVER & EMPOWER project in response to the growing need for structured, innovative, and accessible career guidance for young adults, particularly those with fewer opportunities and low or outdated skills. In our daily work with adult learners, we observed that many struggle to identify their strengths, understand labour market changes, and make informed career decisions. Rapid digital transformation, post-pandemic instability, and skills mismatch have further increased uncertainty and reduced confidence among young adults. The project addressed the need for improved career management skills (CMS), stronger links between lifelong guidance and lifelong learning, and better support from adult educators. We recognized a gap in practical, engaging, and ICT-based resources that would empower learners to take ownership of their career paths. At the same time, educators needed modern tools and methodologies to effectively guide and motivate adults. By developing a digital portal, self-assessment tools, workshops and a teacher’s manual, we aimed to create sustainable, flexible, and inclusive guidance solutions aligned with labour market realities and European priorities in adult education.