Deadline: 26-Jun-2026
UNICEF is supporting adolescent skills development in East Java through education, training, and capacity-building initiatives that strengthen digital, entrepreneurship, and 21st-century skills. The programme focuses on inclusive learning, gender equality, disability inclusion, youth participation, and long-term integration into education systems.
The initiative aims to reach approximately 2,000 adolescents while strengthening the capacity of education stakeholders to deliver future-ready learning opportunities.
What Is the UNICEF Adolescent Skills Development Programme?
The UNICEF adolescent skills development initiative supports the improvement of education and training systems in East Java by helping young people develop practical skills for learning, employment, and participation in society.
The programme focuses on preparing adolescents for changing social and economic environments through:
- Digital skills
- Entrepreneurship skills
- Career readiness
- Problem-solving abilities
- Innovation and creativity
- Inclusive learning opportunities
The initiative works across both formal and non-formal education settings.
Main Objectives of the Programme
The programme aims to:
- Improve adolescent learning outcomes
- Strengthen youth employability skills
- Promote inclusive education
- Support girls and marginalized adolescents
- Build educator and mentor capacity
- Integrate skills development into education planning
The programme also supports long-term policy and system improvements within East Java’s education sector.
Key Focus Areas
21st Century Skills Development
The programme supports skills needed for modern learning and work environments.
Key areas include:
- Critical thinking
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability
These skills help adolescents respond to future challenges.
Digital Skills and Innovation
Digital learning is a major focus of the programme.
Activities include:
- Digital literacy training
- Technology-based learning
- Innovative education methods
- Digital career awareness
The programme encourages young people to use technology for learning and problem-solving.
Entrepreneurship and Career Skills
The initiative promotes entrepreneurial thinking and alternative career pathways.
Support areas include:
- Entrepreneurship training
- Financial literacy
- Business skills
- Career guidance
- Prototype development
Adolescents learn how to transform ideas into practical solutions.
Gender Equality and Social Inclusion
The programme applies a Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) approach.
It prioritises:
- Equal learning opportunities
- Inclusion of adolescents with disabilities
- Support for marginalized groups
- Increased participation of girls
The initiative aims to reduce barriers preventing young people from accessing skills development opportunities.
Teacher and Mentor Capacity Building
The programme strengthens educators and mentors through:
- Training programmes
- Learning resources
- Teaching approaches
- Mentorship methods
Teachers and facilitators receive support to deliver effective skills-based education.
Curriculum and Learning Resources
The programme supports development of:
- Training modules
- Curriculum adaptations
- Learning materials
- Skills assessment tools
Resources are designed to meet adolescent needs and support practical learning.
Youth Participation and Consultation
Adolescents are involved in programme design.
Youth consultations help identify:
- Learning priorities
- Career interests
- Community challenges
- Preferred learning methods
This ensures activities reflect real adolescent experiences.
Programme Activities
The initiative includes several practical activities.
Skills Training
Adolescents participate in training focused on:
- Digital abilities
- Entrepreneurship
- Career preparation
- Life skills
Hackathons and Innovation Activities
Young participants take part in:
- Problem-solving events
- Team challenges
- Idea development sessions
- Prototype creation
These activities encourage creativity and innovation.
Career Guidance Sessions
Career activities help adolescents understand:
- Employment pathways
- Future opportunities
- Non-traditional careers
- Skills needed in the labour market
Final Showcase Event
A final event allows adolescents to present their solutions to:
- Government representatives
- Education stakeholders
- Private sector partners
The event highlights youth innovation and community impact.
Who Benefits From the Programme?
The programme supports:
- Adolescents in East Java
- Students in formal education
- Learners in non-formal education settings
- Marginalized girls and boys
- Teachers and mentors
- Education authorities
Approximately 2,000 adolescents are expected to benefit from programme activities.
How the Programme Works
Step 1: Assess Adolescent Needs
The programme begins by understanding young people’s needs through:
- Consultations
- Surveys
- Community engagement
Step 2: Develop Skills Programmes
Learning activities are designed around:
- Youth priorities
- Future employment needs
- Inclusive education principles
Step 3: Train Educators and Mentors
Teachers and facilitators receive support to deliver effective programmes.
Step 4: Implement Youth Activities
Adolescents participate in:
- Training sessions
- Innovation challenges
- Career activities
- Practical projects
Step 5: Evaluate and Improve
The programme collects data and evaluates outcomes to improve future implementation.
Policy and System Strengthening
The initiative supports long-term sustainability through:
- Education policy integration
- Government engagement
- Advocacy for education planning
- Budget support discussions
- Institutional capacity building
The goal is to ensure adolescent skills development becomes part of the wider education system.
Expected Outcomes
The programme aims to achieve:
- Improved adolescent skills
- Stronger education systems
- Increased youth participation
- Better employment readiness
- Greater inclusion of vulnerable groups
- Sustainable skills development models
Why This Programme Matters
Young people need adaptable skills to succeed in changing economies and societies.
By combining education, innovation, and inclusion, the UNICEF initiative helps adolescents:
- Build confidence
- Access new opportunities
- Participate in community development
- Prepare for future careers
Common Challenges and Implementation Tips
Limited Access for Vulnerable Groups
Challenge: Some adolescents may face barriers to participation.
Solution: Use inclusive outreach and targeted support.
Skills Training Without Career Connection
Challenge: Training may not lead to practical opportunities.
Solution: Include career guidance and employer engagement.
Weak Sustainability Planning
Challenge: Programmes may stop after funding ends.
Solution: Integrate activities into education systems and local policies.
Lack of Youth Participation
Challenge: Young people may not be involved in decisions.
Solution: Include adolescents in design and evaluation processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the UNICEF adolescent skills programme in East Java?
The programme strengthens adolescent skills through inclusive education, training, and capacity building.
Who is the programme designed for?
It supports adolescents, especially marginalized girls and boys, as well as teachers, mentors, and education stakeholders.
What skills are included?
The programme covers digital skills, entrepreneurship, 21st-century skills, financial literacy, career readiness, and innovation.
How many adolescents will benefit?
The initiative aims to reach approximately 2,000 adolescents.
Does the programme support teachers?
Yes. Teachers and mentors receive training, resources, and capacity-building support.
How does UNICEF promote inclusion?
The programme applies gender equality and disability inclusion approaches to reduce barriers for vulnerable groups.
What long-term impact is expected?
The programme aims to strengthen education systems and integrate adolescent skills development into future planning.
Conclusion
The UNICEF adolescent skills development programme in East Java supports young people by combining education, innovation, inclusion, and career preparation.
Through skills training, teacher support, youth participation, and policy integration, the initiative helps create stronger pathways for adolescents to succeed in education, employment, and community life.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.