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Digital career guidance for young people and job seekers
Darmstadt. The city of Darmstadt, a center of science and research, continues to support the educational project "we for education – we4edu," which offers young people and job seekers modern, practical career guidance using digital tools. The project, which has been running since 2020, is aimed particularly at target groups that are difficult to reach through traditional educational structures – such as young people aged 15 and over, or adults without clear access to digital media and career prospects.
“‘we4edu’ not only strengthens career orientation but also imparts fundamental digital skills. It promotes social participation, opens up career opportunities, and supports the personal development of participants,” explains Mayor and Head of Social Services Barbara Akdeniz. She describes the project as an integral part of the municipality’s strategy for promoting vocational training and education.
Innovative methods and personal approach
Key elements of the workshops are modern technologies such as virtual reality headsets and tablets. These allow participants to experience different professions virtually or to design interactive digital application training. Combined with pedagogical support, this creates a learning atmosphere that fosters trust, self-reflection, and motivation.
The workshop team consists of young professionals with interdisciplinary backgrounds. Psychologist Düet Reyyan Sag and media educator Fatma Zehra Yetkin are actively involved in the implementation. Both belong to Generation Z themselves and interact with the participants on an equal footing.
“We rely on interactive methods that are fun and at the same time impart important skills. The personal relationships that develop in the workshops are particularly valued,” explains Yetkin. Psychologist Sag adds: “Many participants experience their career orientation as stressful or overwhelming. We give them the space to recognize their strengths – with structure, clarity, and digital tools.”
Funding from the city and state
The project is funded by the City of Darmstadt and the Hessian Ministry of Labor, Integration, Youth and Social Affairs. Its content is modular and adapts flexibly to specific needs – whether in schools, transitional programs, or independent educational institutions.
Participants have consistently given positive feedback. Leon says, "It was varied and really helped with career orientation." Sofia reports, "I learned a lot about myself – especially that I'm capable of more than I thought. The VR headset made the career exploration exciting."
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/DK)
