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Description
The project aims to increase the impact of the social measures addressed to vulnerable Roma communities in three localities in Mureș County. The main target groups of the project are 387 children and young people and 688 adults (all belonging to the communities of Viisoara, Zagar and Tarnaveni), who will benefit from personalized socio-educational services. The main objectives of the provided services are to increase the quality of education and school performances of the children, whereas the adults will benefit from increased chances on the labour market. The services for children and young people will be carried out in the day centers, through school-after-school programs, while adults will benefit from counseling and vocational and parental guidance services for a period of 18 months. The project also includes an anti-discrimination campaign to reduce discrimination against members of Roma communities. Combating discrimination and promoting equal opportunities and diversity will be horizontal objectives of the project.
Summary of project results
The project addressed severe socio-economic challenges faced by Roma communities in Târnăveni, Zagar, and Viișoara, in Mureș County. These communities experienced extreme poverty, high dependency on social aid, and low levels of employment. Many families struggled to provide for basic needs, and parents often migrated for work, leaving children vulnerable to neglect and school dropout. In Târnăveni, the school dropout rate was approximately 50 students per year. In Zagar and Viișoara, the dropout rate increased over time, with Roma students being the most affected. The lack of educational attainment further limited job opportunities, reinforcing cycles of poverty and social exclusion.
To tackle these issues, the project developed educational and social programs aimed at reducing school dropout and increasing Roma inclusion in the labor market. The intervention focused on providing non-formal education for primary and secondary school students at risk of dropping out. In addition, day centers were established to offer non-formal education, personal development activities, and career guidance. Parental counseling programs were implemented to raise awareness about the importance of education, particularly among mothers. Another key component of the project was the assessment of professional skills for Roma adults to improve their chances of securing stable jobs. These initiatives contributed to a sustainable change by improving school drop-out, strengthening parental engagement, and facilitating access to the labor market.
The project implemented a series of activities to support Roma communities in Târnăveni, Zagar, and Viișoara, focusing on education, social inclusion, and professional development. To achieve its planned results, the project established and operated educational and social programs targeting children, youth, and adults at risk of social exclusion. In the beginning, a handbook of best practices in the activity of day centers for children was developed, intended to be an informational tool and a resource for any institution or organization that wishes to open a day center for children.
One of the key achievements was the establishment and operation of two new day centers in Zagar and Ormeniș. These centers provided educational support, social assistance, and meals for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. In addition, the Buckner Day Center in Târnăveni continued its activities, offering early education for 30 preschoolers and remedial education for 90 primary and secondary school students. The centers ensured that children received daily meals, hygiene education, psychological support, and personal development activities. By the end of the project, all children showed progress in their academic performance and personal development.
The project also implemented after-school programs and remedial education programs in four schools and high schools, benefiting 200 students. These students received additional educational support and career counseling, which improved their school attendance and learning outcomes. Another important component was the parental counseling program, which involved 100 mothers in awareness-raising sessions about the importance of education and child development.
To support employment and economic integration, the project organized vocational skills assessments for 488 young people and adults. These assessments provided guidance on career opportunities and increased their chances of entering the labor market. Additionally, an anti-discrimination campaign was conducted in local Roma communities, raising awareness about rights and available support services. This campaign reached 455 individuals and included community discussions and public events.
The project successfully met and, in some cases, exceeded its target indicators. More than 755 Roma beneficiaries received empowerment support, 392 children accessed educational services, and community engagement activities contributed to increasing the acceptance of Roma people in society by 41.74%. The project''s final impact strengthened educational access, increased parental involvement, and improved job prospects for Roma individuals in the targeted communities.
The project created lasting positive changes for Roma communities in Târnăveni, Zagar, and Viișoara. Before the project, many Roma children faced a high risk of school dropout, low academic performance, and poor living conditions. Adults had limited employment opportunities and relied heavily on social aid. The community lacked access to structured support for education and professional development.
Through targeted interventions, the project improved school attendance and learning outcomes. Over 392 Roma children received educational support in day centers and school programs. All children in the day centers showed progress in academic performance and personal development. School dropout rates decreased, and more students completed their education. The parental counseling program helped 100 mothers understand the importance of education and encouraged them to support their children’s schooling.
Vocational assessments and counseling provided 50 young people and adults with better access to job opportunities. Many gained confidences in their skills and explored stable employment instead of seasonal work abroad. The project also contributed to breaking stereotypes and promoting social inclusion. The anti-discrimination campaign reached 455 people, increasing awareness of Roma rights and social services.
The overall acceptance of Roma communities by the majority population improved significantly, rising by 41.74%, far exceeding the planned target of +10%. This shift indicated stronger community ties and reduced social tensions. The project also met or exceeded all major planned results, demonstrating its effectiveness.
On a long-term basis, the established day centers continue to function, offering ongoing support for vulnerable children. The project helped reduce dependence on social aid by encouraging professional development. The communities involved now have more resources, better education access, and stronger social cohesion.