Supporting Employment Platform through Apprenticeship Learning (SEPAL PRO) is a project aimed at creating an innovative model for job insertion for at least 600 NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) aged 18-29. Focused on vulnerable groups such as youth with disabilities, Roma, migrants, low-skilled individuals, and school drop-outs, SEPAL operates in five European countries with strong partnerships, Bucovina Institute in Romania, KOISPE Diadromes in Greece, Fundacio Pere Closa in Spain, ZISPB in Lithuania, and KOMES in Poland, emphasizing inclusivity and support for NEET women, youth, and vulnerable groups, to thrive in the labor market.
Prior to exploring SEPAL’s initiatives, it is crucial to grasp the current landscape of the labor market for women, which similarly impacts NEET women.Despite considerable progress, women continue to face many challenges, especially concerning employment and wage disparities.
Actions are undertaken by The EU Parliament, which called for concrete action to reduce the gender pay gap (13% in 2020) and pension gap (29% in 2019). They also urged measures to address female poverty, given women’s higher vulnerability to poverty compared to men. In December 2022, negotiators agreed on new rules requiring EU companies to disclose information for comparing salaries and revealing gender pay gaps. EU countries will enforce penalties, such as fines, for rule violations, and gender-neutral vacancy notices and job titles will be required. Formal approval by the Council is still pending for these rules to take effect. (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/headlines/priorities/social/20190712STO56961/the-parliament-s-fight-for-gender-equality-in-the-eu)
SEPAL’s mission goes beyond mere job insertion; we aim to activate the potential of more women, young people, and vulnerable groups on the labor market. Specifically, each SEPAL partner, in its unique approach, has made significant strides in empowering NEET women and fostering their inclusion in the job market.
Bucovina Institute, through learning partnerships and training programs, strives to provide women with the skills and confidence necessary to access meaningful employment. Their aim is to close the gender gap in the Romanian labor market and create opportunities for women to excel in the green and digital transition sectors.
KOISPE Diadromes’s commitment to empowering NEET women is reflected in their principles: empowerment, self-representation, and autonomy, which are key guidelines for people with psychosocial difficulties, and ensuring their active participation in society. They promote gender equality within their organization and among the beneficiaries, fostering a culture of inclusivity and equal opportunities for all.
In Spain, Fundacio Pere Closa is dedicated to the education and promotion of the Roma community in Catalonia, emphasizing equal access to education and opportunities for Roma women. They work diligently to break down barriers and ensure gender equality in both their organization and the projects they undertake. By preserving and promoting Romany cultural heritage, they celebrate the unique contributions of Romany women to society.
The mission of ZIPSB in Lithuania is to create innovative social initiatives, providing services to disadvantaged groups, including NEET women. They offer comprehensive career guidance, work skills training, and ongoing assistance during or after employment. By tailoring services to individual needs, they address the specific challenges faced by NEET women, ensuring their successful integration into the labor market.
Part of KOMES’ objective in Poland is to raise awareness and build civic attitudes, as they provide workshops and advisory meetings, specifically targeting NEET women’s equal treatment and mental health support. They believe that empowering women in the third sector contributes to a more inclusive society and strengthens Poland’s economic recovery.
While the efforts of SEPAL and its partners aim to empower NEET women (among other vulnerable groups), it is essential to address the gender pay gap and the challenges faced by women in the labor market. The gender pay gap in Romania stands at approximately 5.8%, Spain at 8.6%, Greece at 6.9%, Lithuania at 9.0%, and Poland at 8.7% (https://data.oecd.org/earnwage/gender-wage-gap.htm). NEET women often encounter difficulties due to societal expectations, lack of support systems, and access to quality education and training, hindering their successful entry into the labor market. Even if employment rates for women have risen, they are still lagging behind those of men. Women work more part time, are paid less and often still carry out the bulk of private domestic and care responsibilities. Work is the best way to empower women economically. It is therefore necessary to increase women’s labor market participation. (https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/gender-equality/women-labour-market-work-life-balance/womens-situation-labour-market_en).
SEPAL and its dedicated partners, Bucovina Institute, KOISPE Diadromes, Fundacio Pere Closa, ZISPB, and KOMES, share a common commitment to empowering NEET women. Together, they establish inclusive learning partnerships, offer specialized training programs, and provide ongoing support, all aimed at empowering women economically and bridging the gender pay gap.
In alignment with the European Year of Skills, SEPAL ensures that women’s aspirations and skill sets are well-matched with opportunities in the green and digital transition sectors. This collective effort focuses on driving economic recovery and fostering a more inclusive and prosperous future for all, recognizing NEET women as key contributors to resilient societies.
Through targeted outreach programs, mentorship initiatives, and capacity-building workshops, SEPAL and its partners equip women with the essential skills and confidence required to access meaningful job opportunities.
SEPAL PRO Project
