From Pupil To Employee: Advocacy and Training for Youth and Women at Risk in the County of Dolj

Project facts

Project promoter:
Adina Stiftelsen Foundation(RO)
Project Number:
RO-ACTIVECITIZENS-0035
Status:
Completed
Initial project cost:
€224,517
Final project cost:
€240,723
Donor Project Partners:
Adina Stiftelsen(NO)
Stiftelsen Kirkens Bymisjon i Bergen(NO)
Programme:

More information

Description

With the mission “To build people through holistic education and support so that they develop their abilities and competences from kindergarten to working life”, FAS implement by 15 years activities for vulnerable children, youth and families in rural areas of Dolj County. Seeing results as i.e. reduced dropout rate in partner schools, increased participation in higher education and increased engagement and voluntary efforts from rural citizens in the projects, beneficiaries have advocated for a further development of FAS`projects to include measures of empowerment and advocacy. Lacking sufficient education, work experience, understanding of rights and responsibilities as well lacking a network in which to meet and discuss issues of relevance in their lives, women and youth at risk are prevented from participation in activities that promote active citizenship. The project will supplement existing programs and address the problem of inactivity amongst youth at risk and women in rural areas due to lack of facilities and interventions through implementing two programs, V13 and Empo, directed at the mentioned target groups. The activities within the programs will vary and be adjusted to suit the age groups, needs and requests of the beneficiaries, and aim at providing tools that will encourage education, active citizenship and build their position as competent and attractive in the labour market. In order to improve the growth conditions for the organization, existing and new programs, FAS has build a centre in the rural area of which will serve as the venue for the project activities benefiting at least 40 women and 60 youth from three commune from Dolj County. The two Norwegian partners: Stiftelsen Kirkens Bymisjon and Adina Stiftelsen will be in charge of competency transfer for developing of social capital that would then lead to better employment opportunities.

Summary of project results

The project addresses the situation of children and young people in Romania, who face a high risk of poverty, social exclusion, and unemployment, especially in the Oltenia region.

Through the constant and participatory involvement of beneficiaries, volunteers, and the expert team, the following activities were carried out: the implementation of pilot services V13 and Empo, within which workshops covering diverse topics, from theater to financial education, were organized, involving young people in the organization. In addition, in order to increase sustainability, the Promotor is implementing 4 more projects that continue or complete the activities carried out.

The main results include the organization of 2 training sessions in advocacy techniques and 244 V13 and Empo workshops, involving 106 participants through the work of 172 volunteers. These workshops and advocacy sessions succeeded in developing the social, personal, and professional skills of the beneficiaries, increasing their self-confidence, and improving their quality of life, according to the impact study conducted in the project. Overall, the project has empowered 106 beneficiaries (young people and women).

Summary of bilateral results

Partner Adina Stiftelsen (NO) conducted two training sessions in Romania, indicating a significant exchange of knowledge and experience between the partners. This can enhance the capabilities and skills of both parties involved in the project. The connections and the exchange of ideas were strengthened by the organization of an intermediary event in Romania, attended by Partner Adina Stiftelsen (NO), and a follow-up visit by Stiftelsen Kirkens Bymisjon i Bergen (NO). In addition, the visit to Norway to promote the project''s results and impact can contribute to the recognition and support of the project at an international level.The continuous and open communication throughout the project implementation period has strengthened bilateral relations between the project promoter and the Norwegian partners. This can lead to a solid foundation for future collaborations. The intention to continue collaboration in future projects is present.

Information on the projects funded by the EEA and Norway Grants is provided by the Programme and Fund Operators in the Beneficiary States, who are responsible for the completeness and accuracy of this information.