On 1 March 2023, Czechia launched its first open call for project proposals under the Commission's new Aim, Learn, Master, Achieve (ALMA) initiative to support disadvantaged young people. With a budget of €6.3 million, the call is a part of the implementation of Czechia’s ‘Employment+’ national ESF+ programme. The call is open until 3 May at 17:00 CET. Other call(s) will follow over the 2021-2027 programming period.
ALMA is a social inclusion initiative financed by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+). The initiative supports young people between 18 and 29 years old and aims at integrating them in society, strengthening their self-confidence and helping them find their way into education, training or the job market. A central element of the programme is a work-related placement abroad. Starting with thorough preparation, participants benefit from continuous coaching, counselling and trainings. Support continues through follow-up measures upon the young person's return to their home country.
The unemployment rate in Czechia is the lowest in the EU. However, the unemployment rate of low-skilled persons remains significantly higher compared to medium and high-skilled workers. The number of young people not in employment, education or training (NEETs) – the target group of the ALMA initiative – continues to be comparatively high. Czechia has therefore taken measures to help young people to reconnect with education and the labour market. The Member State was already a member of ALMA’s predecessor programme, 'Transnational Mobility Measures for Disadvantaged Youth and Young Adults' (TLN Mobility), and is now one of the first Member States to implement ALMA.
The ALMA initiative is expected to be implemented under the ESF+ in more than 15 Member States at national and regional level. Preparations are currently ongoing, and information related to national and regional calls will be published on the websites of the respective ESF+ managing authorities. Other Member States are already in the process of implementing ALMA across the EU.
