In November 2024, Madrid hosted an impactful Erasmus+ KA1 training program titled “Non-Formal Activities to Engage NEET into the SDG”. This program gathered youth workers, educators, and trainers from across Europe with a shared mission: to empower NEET youth (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) through innovative non-formal educational approaches linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The training served as a platform for knowledge-sharing, skill development, and collaborative planning to ensure the inclusion of NEET youth in global efforts toward sustainable development.
This initiative sought to provide practical tools, innovative methodologies, and collaborative opportunities to address the challenges faced by youth who are not in education, employment, or training. The program combined theoretical knowledge with hands-on activities to empower participants and foster sustainable strategies for youth inclusion.
The training began by introducing the participants to the SDGs and the 2030 Agenda. Through interactive sessions, they explored the relevance of these global goals to their work with NEET youth. Exercises emphasized the interconnected nature of the SDGs, encouraging participants to consider how goals such as quality education, decent work, and reduced inequalities are directly linked to youth empowerment. The use of tools like the SDG Wheel facilitated a deeper understanding of how to align youth activities with sustainable development initiatives.
A significant part of the program focused on the design and implementation of non-formal education strategies. Participants engaged in co-design exercises to develop innovative approaches for activating NEET youth. These sessions allowed participants to work collaboratively, drawing on their diverse backgrounds and experiences. The resulting initiatives were tailored to address local challenges while contributing to global sustainable development efforts. This hands-on approach provided participants with practical skills that could be directly applied in their communities.
Inclusivity was a key theme throughout the training. Recognizing the diverse needs of NEET youth, including those with disabilities, the program emphasized the importance of creating accessible and equitable opportunities. Guest speakers shared case studies that highlighted the transformative impact of inclusive practices. These sessions inspired participants to think critically about how to integrate inclusivity into their own projects and initiatives.
The exchange of best practices was another cornerstone of the program. Participants shared successful strategies and programs from their respective countries, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. These exchanges not only provided fresh ideas but also reinforced the importance of cross-border cooperation in addressing the challenges faced by NEET youth. The diversity of perspectives enriched the learning experience and underscored the potential of collective action.
The training concluded with sessions focused on sustainability and action planning. Participants worked together to create dissemination strategies and organizational action plans, ensuring the long-term impact of their work. By the end of the program, participants had developed a deeper understanding of the SDGs, practical tools for youth engagement, and a network of like-minded professionals dedicated to driving positive change.
This Erasmus+ initiative served as a transformative experience for all involved, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge needed to empower NEET youth and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Through innovative methods, collaborative learning, and a shared commitment to inclusivity, the training set the stage for meaningful and lasting impact in communities across Europe and beyond.