Introduction to Step Forward

Now in its sixth year "Step Forward" is an innovative programme that helps young people in the transition from education into work or self-employment. As unemployment among 20-24 year olds is at the highest rate of any group in Palestine, "Step Forward" is meeting the challenge of youth employment.

2008-2009 have been busy years for Sharek's Step Forward Programme with several projects running at the same time including: academic and career counseling, vocational education, capacity building and youth enterprise support. Of particular importance over the last two years is the establishment of the Centers for Youth Business and Employment Services.

In addition to specific projects taking place through the Step Forward programme there are weekly activities that continue on an ongoing basis and special one-off events that take place throughout the year. These include: the introduction of careers centers aimed at bridging the gap between the Palestinian labor market and the local academic and vocational training institutions. These centers work in coordination with Palestinian universities and help students locate employment in governmental organizations, the private sector and civil society organizations. The career centers offer services including career guidance, career days and specialized training. Partnerships with the private sector support the sustainability of the centers.

Step Forward at a glance

• General aims

• Employment and Job creation

• Careers Centers General Activities

• Employment and training days

• Business guidance and training

• Business networking

• Business start up

• Finance provision

• Employer partnerships

• Career days

• Workshops

• Career and academic counseling

• Palestinian youth employment action plan

Specific Projects in 2008-2009

1. Youth Business Support Units

2. Academic Counseling for Rural Women

3. Local Economic Development through Appropriate Technology (LEDAT)

4. English Course for Researchers in Social Science

5. Steppingstone (Pilot Project)

6. Supporting TVET in East Jerusalem

7. Women’s Computer Center

8. IT Training

 

To read more click here

www.stepforward.ps