From European Ambition to Local Impact: Lessons Learned Through CirculYOUNG

30 Oct

How can we create better opportunities for young people who are not in employment, education or training?

This was one of the central challenges addressed by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) Social Innovation+ SKILLS Call, which supported transnational projects developing innovative approaches to upskilling vulnerable young people and reconnecting them with learning and employment.

CirculYOUNG, funded under this initiative, brought together partners from Ireland, Austria, Greece and Italy to explore how circular economy education could support young people with migrant backgrounds. Through outreach, tailored learning resources, mentoring and practical bootcamps, the project connected green skills development with social inclusion and employability.

So, what have we learned?

First, training must respond to people's individual circumstances, interests and starting points.
Second, practical, hands-on learning can help make unfamiliar concepts relevant and engaging.
Third, meaningful partnerships between education providers, community organisations and local stakeholders are essential to creating opportunities that last.

Perhaps the most important lesson is that the green transition must be inclusive. Young people who face barriers to employment should not be left behind; they should be supported to participate in and shape the sustainable economy of the future.

As CirculYOUNG reaches its conclusion, its resources, experiences and partnerships provide a foundation for continued learning and future action across Europe.