NextGen CareerUp (2025–2027)

The project is designed to address structural challenges in youth employment by strengthening the connection between education, labor market actors, and public institutions. It focuses on improving employability, professional development, and economic independence among young people, particularly in the Pollog region, while expanding activities to other municipalities.

The primary target group of the project includes 3rd and 4th year university students, vocational high school students, and young job-seekers. Additional stakeholders include universities, VET schools, employers, chambers of commerce, municipalities, employment services, policymakers, civil society organizations, and diaspora professionals.

The overall goal of the project is to enhance the professional readiness and labor market integration of youth through structured training, mentorship, internships, evidence-based policy dialogue, and stronger cross-sectoral cooperation.

Planned activities include:

• Accredited soft skills, IT, and AI training programs for university and VET students;
• Structured internship and mentorship schemes in cooperation with businesses and educational institutions;
• Entrepreneurship training and pre-incubation support for young people interested in starting their own ventures;
• Publication of an annual Youth & Labor Market Trends Index to map skill gaps and employer needs;
• Bi-annual policy roundtables bringing together education institutions, employers, and government representatives;
• Strengthening and institutionalization of the Council for Career and Professional Guidance;
• Creation of a Next-Gen Alumni Network and peer-to-peer mentoring system;
• Digital campaigns, podcasts, and youth empowerment summits promoting local career opportunities and success stories;
• Engagement of private sector partners in hosting interns and mentoring young professionals.

Through these activities, the project aims to contribute to a more responsive labor market system, reduce skills mismatch, promote entrepreneurship, and encourage youth to pursue career development opportunities within the country.