Young people from the Czech Republic interned in Košice
As part of the internship project “No Time to Waste”, in cooperation with the Czech educational company EDLiT s. r. o., we provided a group of so-called NEETS – long-term unemployed young people who are not in education or training – with the opportunity to integrate into the work environment. In Košice, we welcomed five interested interns for two months, who wanted to expand their work experience and subsequently increase their employability in the labor market. The project was administered by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of the Czech Republic and funded by the European Social Fund.
Interns worked in various operations and in different job positions. Qualified experts; mentor Pavel and mentors Martina and Mirka, supervised the smooth running of the internship. Before their arrival in Košice, the participants underwent preparatory training led by Ivan Rosa and individual consultations focused on specifying their job placement.
What was the internship in Košice like?
The interns began their work in Košice at the end of July. During the initial team-building and welcome city game, they got to know not only the city but also the rest of our Košice YY team. Later, their mentor Mirka guided them through several supportive activities aimed at strengthening team spirit and managing work stress. The interns informally learned the nuances of Slovak and developed their communication skills through various exercises. They participated in activities regularly, each in their own way. Some preferred group work, while others preferred observation or individual work. In addition to work duties and continuous learning, the interns also enjoyed trips around the area and leisure activities.
The agreed working hours for the interns were 6 hours a day. The interns performed their tasks very well, and as stated by the employers, they were very grateful for their help. The interns themselves were able to experience what working life is like and reflect on their next life steps. During the internship, we observed the interns' growing commitment not only to work tasks but also to shared leisure activities.
Where did our interns work?
Pavel worked for K13 – Košice Cultural Centers, where he focused mainly on graphic preparation. Pavel edited posters and brochures for Výmenníky (cultural and community centers in housing estates). He took on the role of graphic assistant within a few days. Thanks to his skill, dedication, and eye for detail, he performed excellently. K13 was very satisfied with his work. According to personal consultations with Pavel, he enjoyed the work so much that he even studied various graphic techniques and procedures in his free time. Pavel experienced working with his own schedule, strengthened his independence in work, and his problem-solving skills.
Aneta worked at Doraz Cafe, where she, along with her colleagues, managed the cafe's operations from packaging coffee to preparing drinks. Leaving home was challenging for her, but the internship strengthened her independence and decision-making. Throughout the internship, she shared her joy about the friendly approach of her colleagues. According to her, the internship left her with a lot of positive energy and changed her perspective on working in a team. Aneta consistently showed a willingness to learn, was naturally curious, and accommodating to her colleagues. Her non-confrontational and positive approach, even to minor setbacks, meant continuous progress in acquiring practical skills from the beginning to the end of the internship.
Vasil and Radim worked in the premises of the Košice Botanical Garden. Their position was physically more demanding compared to other interns, especially during hot summer days. They participated in the maintenance of the outdoor area and the preparation of the Dendrological Trail. Radim also helped during the preparation of a private event. According to personal consultations, the internship helped Radim build work habits and strengthened his courage to accept new challenges. Vasil gained knowledge in the field of horticulture. He was enthusiastic about the Slovak language lessons. Since the internship started during the holidays, when the botanical garden has few employees, the presence of the interns was more than necessary and beneficial. According to the garden management, the interns were non-confrontational and brought a special touch to the Slovak team.
Vojtech interned at the ETP Slovakia Center for Sustainable Development, where he prepared educational aids for activities with children in the community center in Luník IX. In addition, he archived children's artworks, revised libraries, carried out translations into English, and assisted with graphic work. Vojtech also actively participated in the Bridges out of Poverty training, where he presented the outputs of the working group. In addition to working in the city center office, he also helped directly in Luník IX. ETP Slovakia expressed gratitude and highlighted Vojtech's immense contribution, emphasizing his precision in his work. they worked
The participants embraced the internship with great perseverance. They approached their internship duties responsibly and punctually. We are sincerely pleased that they could experience a work environment in a neighboring country. We believe that during the internship, they developed their competencies and strengthened their self-confidence, which will ultimately help them succeed in the labor market. As the Slovak mobility partner, we want to highlight the seamless cooperation with EDLiT, exemplary coordination, and strong support from the Czech mentors Pavel and Martina.
Last but not least, we want to thank all employers who made the internship possible. In every case, we encountered great understanding, acceptance, and a helping hand. We wish the interns good luck as they return to working life.