The Skills 4 Employability Youth Exchange was implemented in Bansko, Bulgaria in June 2022 and financed by Erasmus+ program. It brought together enthusiastic young participants from to address social problems and propose alternatives to solve them, with a particular focus on youth unemployment. These Bulgarian participants were determined to make a difference and shared their eye-opening experiences through impactful follow-up activities, specifically presentations in high school classrooms. By organizing two events with students in grades 9 through 12, they aimed to raise awareness about the challenges of youth unemployment in Europe and introduce new possibilities for acquiring skills that could enhance their competitiveness in the labor market.
The youth exchange project aimed to shed light on the harsh reality faced by many young people in Europe, specifically concerning youth unemployment. Through their engaging presentations, the Bulgarian participants conveyed the gravity of this issue and emphasized the importance of finding effective solutions. They passionately discussed various social problems linked to unemployment, such as the lack of job opportunities, skills mismatch, and the need for additional qualifications to succeed in the fiercely competitive labor market.
Volunteering as a Path to Skill Acquisition: One of the key messages conveyed by the Bulgarian participants was the power of volunteering as a means of acquiring essential skills and additional qualifications. They emphasized that volunteering not only provides valuable experiences but also enhances one’s employability. By engaging in volunteer work, young people can develop a range of transferable skills, including teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership. These skills, they emphasized, can significantly increase their chances of finding employment opportunities and standing out in a crowded job market.
They shared their personal stories, experiences, and lessons learned during the Skills 4 Employability Youth Exchange. Through relatable anecdotes and engaging visuals, they effectively conveyed the challenges and triumphs they encountered while exploring the world of youth unemployment and skill development.
Inspiring the Next Generation: By actively involving high school students in these presentations, the Bulgarian participants aimed to inspire and empower the younger generation. They encouraged the students to recognize their potential and proactively seek opportunities for skill development. Through their stories, the participants highlighted that acquiring skills through volunteering not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the overall betterment of society. These follow-up activities not only empowered the high school students but also fostered a sense of hope and determination to create positive change in their communities and beyond.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
