Ukraine
Social student-run businesses to support young people
The ongoing war of aggression in Ukraine is having far-reaching effects on the development and education of young people. This makes it all the more important to offer them opportunities and prospects that will enable them to counter the consequences of the war and drive reconstruction forward. Through the educational model of social student-run companies, we are strengthening the professional and entrepreneurial skills of Ukrainian youth. In this way, they acquire the necessary competencies to lead the country toward a better future in an innovative and sustainable manner.
Background
In Ukraine’s regional and rural areas, which have been severely affected by the war, greater personal initiative is required to successfully participate in the labor market and economic life than in Ukraine’s major cities and metropolitan areas. Adolescents and young adults here have fewer opportunities to thrive in the labor market and engage in entrepreneurial activities. They are less prepared for important career decisions because they often lack practical work experience in relevant fields and are unaware of their own skills, strengths, or weaknesses.
In addition, many schools, especially vocational schools, are underfunded. They lack the necessary specialized staff, infrastructure, or (teaching) materials to prepare their students as effectively as possible for everyday professional life. As a result, young people lack the necessary support to define and pursue their career goals
Furthermore, school education in Ukraine relies heavily on the teaching of theory. However, the demand for knowledge and skills that are taught and learned in a practical manner is growing—especially under the current war conditions and with a view to the future reconstruction process under the motto “Build back better.”
The low level of youth involvement in skilled trades also plays a role. Under the current conditions of the war of aggression, with near-daily attacks on civilian infrastructure, young men and women with technical skills are urgently needed everywhere. This is because the reconstruction efforts required are enormous and must simultaneously be socially responsible, inclusive, and innovative.
Häufig gefragt
What does ChildFund Germany stand for, and what is the goal of its work?
Our goal is to bring about lasting improvements in the future prospects of children in need, their families, and their entire communities. Through our commitment to these children and families, we aim to make a positive difference and create lasting improvements, always guided by the principle of helping people help themselves. This enables them to exercise their rights, overcome poverty and dependency, and lead independent and self-determined lives.
How can I be sure that my donation actually reaches its destination?
The efficient use of the donations entrusted to us is our top priority. To ensure that our aid is used in a highly targeted manner, we rely on close collaboration with local partner organizations in all the countries where we operate, so that our assistance meets the specific needs on the ground. Furthermore, all our support is guided by the principle of helping people help themselves. This ensures that the people in our projects benefit from long-term and lasting changes and, in the long run, no longer depend on aid but can live independently and self-determinedly. Our transparent and responsible handling of donations is also confirmed by the DZI Donation Seal, which we have been awarded continuously since 1995 by the German Central Institute for Social Issues.
How does ChildFund Germany work?
Our work is made possible by three sources of funding: sponsorships, other donations, and public funds. Our projects funded by sponsorships are designed for the long term. They are characterized by particularly close collaboration between our partner organizations in the respective project country and the local communities.
The donation-based and publicly funded projects have a shorter duration. Due to the limited timeframe, these projects require more intensive planning and support on our part.
In all projects, ChildFund plays two specific roles: First, raising funds so that the project work can be implemented at all. And second, bringing together and building bridges between those who provide money and expertise and those who lack these resources. The goal is to maximize mutual benefit from the collaboration and to advance our projects in the most effective way possible.
What kinds of projects does ChildFund Germany carry out?
Our projects, which are funded through sponsorships, are designed for the long term. They are characterized by particularly close collaboration between our partner organizations in the respective project country and the local communities.
The donation-based and publicly funded projects have a shorter duration. Due to the limited timeframe, these projects require more intensive planning and support on our part.
What regions and issues does ChildFund Germany focus on?
We operate in various countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Our work focuses primarily on education, nutrition, livelihood support, and child protection, as well as humanitarian aid in emergency situations. Issues such as health and climate protection are also central to many of our projects.
How can I support ChildFund Germany?
There are many different ways to support our work. From a one-time donation to a regular donation as a “Future Donor” to becoming a sponsor, you are free to choose the form of support that best suits you. Long-term and particularly sustainable support can also take the form of a foundation or a bequest. We also offer a range of customized support options for businesses and schools.