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Description
Through the promotion of workshops in artistic expression such as theatre, dance and music, this project aims to promote the social insertion and personal development of 40 young residents in the municipality of Matosinhos, aged between 15 and 25, in particularly vulnerable economic situations, and with low schooling and qualification levels. These workshops lead to a process of psychosocial rehabilitation, making participants stronger and more capable adults so that they achieve high levels of well-being and greater ability to resolve their personal conflicts.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address the significant issue of school dropout rates in Portugal, which has one of the highest rates in Europe at 10.8%, compounded by low qualifications among youth, with one-third not completing secondary education. Despite existing public policies to combat school dropout, they remain insufficient as young people continue to leave school without the necessary qualifications for social integration. In the North region, the early school leaving rate for youth aged 18 to 24 is 9.5% (INE 2019). AE2O, aware of this reality, targeted young people aged 15-25 who left school early due to various reasons, including family, social, and financial issues. The project aimed to motivate and develop skills in these young people through artistic expression workshops in theater, dance, and music, fostering interaction, interest, and new competencies to help them overcome difficulties and integrate into society. The project partnered with a Norwegian school with similar goals of providing practical learning opportunities for early school leavers, enhancing the project''s success through shared experiences and best practices.
The project integrated its activities into the training paths of students at the Escola de Segunda Oportunidade de Matosinhos, which serves vulnerable youth who have experienced school dropout and need appropriate support for healthy social reintegration. The RESET project raised awareness of the social issue of early school leaving through the public visibility of products generated in various artistic expression workshops. These creative spaces provided numerous benefits and opportunities for individuals facing physical, emotional, social, or economic challenges. Through art, participants found ways to express themselves, discover talents, and develop essential life skills. Artistic workshops offered social integration opportunities, helping vulnerable individuals connect with others who share similar interests, fostering meaningful relationships and support communities. The project activities were evaluated based on parameters such as active participation, expression and authenticity, skill development, increased self-esteem and confidence, social integration and community sense, emotional and therapeutic impact, and recognition. The methodologies used were person-centered, inclusive, and adaptable, creating safe environments for collective artistic productions. The project adapted activities to the specific needs and interests of the target group, ensuring a stimulating, inclusive, and growth-oriented space for all participants.
The capacity-building activities included a needs assessment, action plan, initial volunteer training, marketing and fundraising training, and strategic planning. These activities collectively aimed to empower AE2O and the project, improving the execution and effectiveness of the objectives to combat early school leaving.
In terms of results the project achieved the social inclusion of 40 young people aged 15 to 25 from Matosinhos, who were in situations of economic vulnerability and low educational attainment. Through artistic expression workshops, the project aimed to enhance the self-esteem and personal development of the participants, providing them with a means to express themselves authentically and be heard. The workshops were guided by principles such as a participatory approach, a welcoming environment, and community integration. They were led by qualified professionals who provided technical guidance and emotional support, creating a safe and enriching environment. The activities culminated in public performances, achieving the project''s goals by offering moments where each participant could showcase their essence and potential. The partnership with Hyssingen Produksjonsskole from Norway facilitated the exchange of experiences and best practices, strengthening the work carried out by the organization.
The capacity-building component played a central role in the project''s implementation and AE2O''s development by updating existing skills, acquiring new knowledge, and adapting to a constantly evolving work environment. These activities allowed professionals to better understand their performance and enhance their intervention capabilities in the school and with the target audience.
Summary of bilateral results
The bilateral activity results focused mainly on sharing best practices and understanding between two different contexts with similar challenges. There were four trips (two Porto-Bergen and two Bergen-Porto), totaling nine international mobilities. Each trip allowed for deepening the relationship between AE2O, the Second Chance School of Matosinhos, and Hyssingen Produksjonsskole. It became clear that even in Bergen, the Produksjonsskole face difficulties in securing their place in the national education system, despite their proven importance in working with at-risk youth. This was similar to the situation of E2OM in Portugal not long ago, which has since established more stable connections with the Ministry of Education and created a National Network of Second Chance Initiatives and Schools, providing greater stability. Due to this significant shared experience, strategies for deeper future collaboration were discussed, opening doors to cooperation with the European E2C Network, where E2OM holds a leadership position, to give Hyssingen Produksjonsskole more strength and visibility. The mutual inspiration from these mobilities was notable, especially during the second visit to Bergen, where methodologies used in both schools were highlighted and shared. All conditions are now in place for the continuation and deepening of the collaboration between the two institutions.