Study Visit in Vienna within the PATHS Project

As part of the PATHS Interreg Danube Project, partners gathered in Vienna for a two-day study visit filled with meaningful discussions, practical insights, and inspiring examples of youth support and vocational guidance. The programme combined institutional visits with partner meetings, offering a balanced mix of learning and collaboration.

Day 1: Exploring Education and Collaboration

The visit began in the morning at BPI der ÖJAB (Berufspädagogisches Institut), part of the Austrian Young Workers Movement. This organisation is a well-established non-profit working in education, integration, and social support for young people.

At the BPI training centre, participants were introduced to a wide range of vocational programmes designed to help young people and adults enter the labour market. The institute offers technical, business, and language training, as well as career orientation and support services. What stood out was the strong focus on individual guidance and practical learning- participants can explore fields such as electrical engineering, metalwork, and even modern technologies like automation and 3D printing.

The visit highlighted how education can be closely connected to real labour market needs. Through cooperation with companies and hands-on workshops, learners gain not only knowledge but also valuable experience that improves their employability. The human-centred approach, combining training with socio-pedagogical support, was particularly inspiring for the project partners.

In the afternoon, the group gathered for a Partner Meeting at IPC’s headquarters. This session provided space to exchange experiences, discuss progress within the PATHS project, and plan future activities. The collaborative atmosphere reflected the project’s core mission - building pathways for young people through cooperation across countries and sectors.

Day 2: Discovering Practical Career Guidance

The second day continued with a visit to the Jugendwerkstatt, an initiative implemented by ipcenter in Vienna. This programme focuses on helping young people - especially those who are unsure about their future careers- discover their strengths and interests.

At Jugendwerkstatt, participants observed how career orientation is approached in a very practical and engaging way. Young people are given the opportunity to try out different professions in workshop settings, such as media design, electrical engineering, retail, or fashion. This hands-on experience helps them better understand what suits them and supports them in making informed career choices.

Beyond practical training, the programme also offers strong individual support. Participants receive guidance from trainers and social workers, assistance in preparing CVs and applications, and help in finding internships or apprenticeships. The ultimate goal is to ensure that every young person finds a suitable professional path and successfully enters the labour market.

A Valuable Exchange of Good Practices

The study visit in Vienna demonstrated how integrated support systems - combining education, guidance, and social support - can effectively help young people transition into employment. Both BPI der ÖJAB and Jugendwerkstatt provided concrete examples of innovative approaches that can be transferred and adapted in other countries.

For the PATHS project partners, the visit was not only informative but also motivating. It strengthened cooperation, inspired new ideas, and reinforced the shared commitment to creating better opportunities for young people across the Danube region.