As a result of changes in the labor market, in the context of the consequences of the COVID-19 virus pandemic, young people are increasingly faced with a lack of skills that can be useful to them in the process of transition from the education system and inclusion in the labor market. Different training programs for young people are focused on the use of multimedia tools and the Internet. Such models remove the obstacles of geographical distance or financial difficulties, while on the other hand, they reduce costs for employers and companies. However, this type of professional development of young people reduces the possibility of internships, advancement, and the very access to the labor market for young people from vulnerable social groups.
To overcome the aforementioned barriers and create equal educational opportunities for the development of young people's skills, the Belgrade Open School will implement the project "Virtual Internships for Inclusive Societies", in cooperation with Association XANO Channel (Spain), Pixel – International Education and Training Institution (Italy), National Youth Council of Macedonia, Junior Achievement (Europe) and Junior Achievements in Serbia. The project will offer a base for improving youth access to internship programs within the formal and informal education system. Special emphasis will be placed on young people coming from rural areas and young people with disabilities. The project will empower young people to get involved and cooperate with decision-makers in the field of youth education and employment policies and thus become key actors in decision-making processes regarding their rights and interests.