The COVID-19 pandemic made conditions for apprentices tougher than usual, especially when it comes to finances. Εmergency measures were implemented in Greece to limit the spread of the virus.

Schools and educational institutions were forced to temporarily close.  During this time many Greek apprenticeships were suspended and apprentices could not be paid. To alleviate the financial strain, an ESF-funded project gave extra support to those following their apprenticeships. It provided assistance to over 3 000 apprentices, with each person receiving around €700.

Aikaterini-Marina Papadonikolaki shared how the project supported her to continue her hospital-based training, ‘The post-secondary apprenticeship class was the springboard for my professional development and reintegration’ she says.  ‘In the difficult days of the pandemic and the confinement due to COVID-19, the financial support of €700 was able to support us and our families both morally and substantially.’

The added assistance allowed students to continue with their education and training despite the financial and psychological barriers created by COVID-19.