In Austria, it is almost impossible to get a job or apprenticeship without being able to speak German. So, for thousands of young people who have arrived in Vienna as migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, a project called “StartWien – das Jugendcollege” is providing them with vital support.

The Jugendcollege (“youth college”) is a free education, training and mentoring programme for young migrants and asylum seekers aged between 15 and 21. The aim is to help students to lead an independent life by preparing them for further education, vocational training or the workplace.

Participants attend Jugendcollege for 20 hours a week and study German, basic education (maths, English and IT), cultural orientation and personal career development. They also receive one-to-one mentoring support, and take part in other social activities such as excursions