NEET youth-themed study visit to Finland

January 25, 2023

From February 9-13, director Margit Kink and Ilmatsalu Youth Centre manager Elen Hermanson went on a study visit to Tampere for the “Inspirational Study Visit – Services for youth in NEET situation in Finland”.

During the week, various institutions whose activities are aimed at NEET youth* were visited, and different new methods used in Finnish youth work were explored. During the study visit, it was observed that in Finland, systematic youth work is also carried out for young people aged 18+, offering similar services to those primarily provided to minors in Estonia. One impressive practice that stood out was Opetuskahvilla, which is like a youth café where NEET young people are given their first work experience, either as customer service representatives or in other roles associated with running a café. They create menus, advertise their services, and much more. This provides initial experience and confidence in a safe environment to take on greater challenges in the future. The entire process is supported by two specialists – one whose focus is to teach young people work-related skills (e.g., coffee machine operation, marketing, or something else) and another whose focus is to support the young person on their journey of self-analysis and finding greater challenges.

It was also good to see how well and effectively network cooperation has been established. In Finland, street youth workers are specifically focused on working with NEET youth, and the work is organized nationwide. Young people are also offered opportunities from other service providers, and there are many different opportunities available there.

In addition to learning practices from neighboring countries during the study trip, cooperation ties were also established with youth workers across Europe. As a result, a youth exchange will take place in Tartu in July, coordinated by the Tartu Youth Work Center and partners from Latvia, Belgium, Italy, and Portugal.

* The term "NEET youth" describes young people who are not in employment, education, or training.

Additional information:

Margit Kink
margit.kink@tartu.ee

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