By equipping schoolchildren with career planning skills and connecting them with local employers, Ostrava is empowering its youth to envision a future in their own city.
TACKLING YOUTH EMIGRATION THROUGH EARLY CAREER EDUCATION
Ostrava has been grappling with population decline, especially among young, skilled individuals who leave in search of better career opportunities. In response, the city launched a career education programme targeting primary school students (aged 6 to 15), aiming to build awareness of career planning from an early age and encourage local engagement with the job market.
EMPOWERING STUDENTS AND EDUCATORS
The project develops students’ career management skills (CMS), supported by a network of school-based career counselors. Though this role is not yet institutionalised in the Czech Republic, the city funds these positions and provides comprehensive training and ongoing support. Counselors are equipped with methods and tools to implement CMS across classrooms, while teachers receive guidance to integrate career discussions into everyday learning.
CONNECTING SCHOOLS WITH LOCAL INDUSTRY
A key feature of the programme is its collaboration with local employers. Since 2019, more than 213 workplace excursions have been organised, tailored to students’ interests and allowing them to explore future career options firsthand. To date, over 12,000 students across 75% of Ostrava’s schools have participated in the programme, supported by 50+ trained educators. The initiative strengthens the link between education and local industry, helping retain young talent and fostering a more resilient regional economy.
