South Limburg launches regional approach to better support young people in and towards education and work

Educational institutions, transfer points, and municipalities in South Limburg are joining forces in a regional program. This program supports young people up to the age of 27 in obtaining a basic qualification, finding suitable further education or work, and actively participating in society. 

Equal opportunities for young people

Many young people struggle to find a suitable place at school or in a job. This is particularly true for young people in practical education, special education, and vocational education levels 1 and 2. Young people who drop out of school also face this problem. We want to help these young people so that they have the same opportunities as other young people.

Why do young people drop out? 

Young people drop out of school for various reasons:

  • they chose the wrong major
  • they have difficulty planning or being independent in secondary vocational education
  • they are experiencing difficulties at their internship or job
  • They have mental health issues, problems at home, or debts.
  • They have difficulty with the Dutch language.
  • school or work is too difficult or too easy 

Who are we working with?

These organizations are collaborating in the program:

  • VISTA College MBO
  • Municipalities of Heerlen, Maastricht, and Sittard-Geleen
  • School boards Yuverta, INNOVO, Movare, Alterius, LVO, and SVOPL
  • Trevianum and DaCapo schools
  • Employers
  • Transfer points

Jordy Clemens, Alderman of Heerlen, says:
“Every day, schools, workplaces, and the Health work Health to help young people discover and utilize their talents. This program supports all those involved.” 

How do we help young people? 

We tackle problems early on and provide personal assistance. Schools pay closer attention to whether young people are attending school. They provide a safe place where young people feel involved.

When young people transfer to another school or start working, they receive extra support. We are launching mental health pilot programs and collaborating with debt counseling services.

What if school doesn't work out?

For young people who are (temporarily) unable to attend school, there are other options:

  • Work
  • Learning and working at the same time
  • Practical learning
  • Obtaining vocational education certificates

What else is coming?

Every region will have a Youth Center where young people can go for help. We are also creating a network of companies where young people can learn and work. Employers will receive training on how to properly supervise young people. Every year, we measure how many young people drop out of school and how many young people are neither in school nor working.

Young people contribute ideas 

Young people are encouraged to contribute their ideas to the program. We will take their opinions into account in the further development of the program. 

When shall we begin?

We have submitted the program to the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science (OCW). We will know by the end of March whether the program has been approved. If approved, the OCW subsidy could amount to €11 million. The program will start in 2026 and run for four years.