On 9th May 2013, Members of European Parliament (MEPs) Zofija Mazej Kukovič, mag. Tanja Fajon, mag. Mojca Kleva Kekuš, Jelko Kacin and dr. Milan Zver discussed issues which affect young people and their future with students of art and social sciences of University of Ljubljana. Topic of this roundtable was Young Europeans in old Europe.
Young people had the opportunity to ask MEPs about jobs, job opportunities, studying abroad, and it was possible to feel euroscepticism in their words. MEPs agreed that situation is really not the best and that unemployment among young people is concerning. But they were unanimous that the problem of lack of jobs isn?t just a structural problem of European Union. As it seems, young people are losing will, optimism and enthusiasm, but precisely in this times proactive participation is needed. ?Young people need self-confidence that you are part of the solution, not the problem. It is crucial that you are looking for opportunities around you and don?t just wait for the solutions to emerge on their own?, said Mazej Kukovič.
The fact is that Europe offers more opportunities for young people than it seems. Offers possibility of numerous educational programmes, student exchanges, scholarships and internships, and all present MEPs in their offices regularly provide practice to students, who wish to gain work experiences. It is of prime importance that young people are up to date, that they know how to find information, but overall the motivation and desire for new experiences are crucial. Mazej Kukovič said: ?If young people don?t use internet and social media, no classical education will help. World is too competitive and young people can?t afford not to take full advantage of the internet.
The European Union works on improving situation for young people, who are entering the labour market. Nevertheless, young people must be open to different solutions. ?It is necessary to encourage yourself and enter the labour market also as an entrepreneur. Motivation, creativity and struggle must all be combined with a good idea, in this way an opportunity for self-employment can be created?, concluded Zofija Mazej Kukovič.
