Pathway to Digitalisation

ongoing

DigiPATHWAY aims to develop the practical, structural, and organisational capacity of SMED youth organisations in the area of Digital and Technological Literacy (DTL) in order to design and deliver effective and high-quality DTL learning and training activities for the local youth people to increase their employability through acquiring highly in-demand technological and digital competences that are crucial in today's job market. According to the Future of Jobs Report of the World Economic Forum (May, 2023), Technological Literacy was placed as the 6th most in-demand skill in 2023 and projected it to rise to 3rd place by 2027. Hence, with our DigiPATHWAY project starting in 2025, we aim to be ahead of the curve and develop the DTL capacity of youth organisations to prepare youth to meet the evolving challenges and demands of the future labour market. While achieving this goal increases the employability of youth, it also supports overcoming skills mismatches and labour market lack of qualified young talents. The project specifically targets marginalized youth, particularly those in rural and hard-to-reach areas, who face greater challenges in accessing quality education and training opportunities. By focusing on the development of digital and technological skills, this initiative is especially beneficial for these young individuals. With these skills, they gain the capability to work remotely, eliminating the need for relocation to urban areas. This aspect is crucial, as many in this target group are unable to move to cities due to financial constraints and family obligations, such as caring for elderly relatives. Also, this group has the highest rate of early dropouts from schools. Hence, by providing rural youth between 16 and 26 years old with the tools and knowledge to participate in the digital economy from their current locations, we help them overcome geographical and socio-economic barriers, opening up new avenues for employment and personal growth.