How do you unlock your full potential with a mobility programme?

poslední aktualizace pondělí, 14/07/2025

Ten years ago, the United Nations declared July 15 as World Youth Skills Day. This year focuses on empowering the younger generation through AI and digital skills.

The theme couldn’t have been more spot-on! These skills are essential for young people, as we are all aware by now that the present and future are digital.

However, it is important to note that acquiring these skills often requires one to go beyond the screen, as they demand interpersonal skills, critical thinking, intercultural awareness, media literacy and much more.

Nonetheless, do not panic, we have got you covered for that too! You can develop these skills by participating in a learning mobility programme.

All of us, at least once in our lifetime, have been asked this question: "What skills did you learn, achieve, or gain after attending a mobility programme?" Isn't it usually an excuse to just go to another country?

This scepticism is understandable but often misconstrued. Mobility programmes offer genuine opportunities for skill development that go far beyond a typical trip to another country.

In EU programmes such as Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps, you can gain digital skills by participating in different projects such as:

1. Organise a youth exchange on AI and youth rights

Why not bring together young people from different countries to debate how AI shapes your generation and those to come? This is already happening across Europe.

If you would like more information about how to create a youth exchange or what it exactly entails, check out our article here.

One example is CYBER ACTIVISTS: Where young representatives from school student unions across European countries came together to discuss AI's impact. These exchanges are giving a voice to young people who are taking the lead in being part of the conversations when it comes to AI and digital rights.

2. Tackle digital inequalities linked to AI

Connect with policymakers to discuss the impact AI brings along with it, such as the unequal impact on different communities. During the European Year of Skills 2023, Cedefop and the European Training Foundation surveyed workers across 36 countries to better understand who benefits from AI and who doesn’t.

The results from the survey were clear, even though workers cited that digital skills can boost their productivity, others lack the skills to keep up. This stark gap means we need more youth-led discussions with decision makers to ensure that everyone gets the right information and training they need.

3. Address the generational gap

Create a workshop where you can teach the older generation in your community.

You can collaborate with your local council so the word spreads across your city/town, or village. This will help your community to articulate and manage the use of AI and digital skills.

The 2024 study titled ‘The use of AI for Education in the Third Age: the role of EU projects’ found that programmes with mixed generations enhance the learning experience for both the older and younger participants.

Plus, you will enhance your teaching and communication skills by adapting your approach to different audiences.

4. Gain hands-on experience by applying for an internship abroad

Go check out the Eurodesk Opportunity Finder website, where you can enhance your AI and digital skills through various opportunities. Such as: Media Literacy for Educators, the Yearly World Bank Group Youth Summit, where you can have the chance to engage with international leaders, participate in discussions and contribute first-hand to shape solutions that are pressing the world globally.

Furthermore, you can apply for an EU-funded traineeship specifically designed to boost your digital skills. Above all, you can even apply to become an AI changemaker, supporting young social and environmental changemakers through the upskilling of AI.

Why does all of this matter?

These programmes do not just expand your knowledge when it comes to AI or digital skills. They help you understand how technology influences and shapes our world, and you have the tools to shape it back! You’ll develop critical thinking, media literacy and the ability to navigate our digital sphere.

Mobility experiences build both technical skills, as mentioned above and soft skills, which help you in the long run when it comes to securing a full-time job.

Indeed, research shows that most employers value such experience abroad. But most importantly, it simultaneously builds your character as an individual. Mobility programmes give us life skills, not dormant skills waiting to be used once we enter the workplace.

As Michaela from the Czech Republic said after going on an international training (TCA) experience, “Definitely give it a try! It's a great opportunity to gain new knowledge and skills, meet people from different parts of Europe (sometimes even the world) and broaden your horizons.”

If you are looking for a traineeship to improve your digital skills, have a look at the Digital Opportunity Traineeships.

So are you ready to take your skills to the next level? Apply for a mobility programme today!

Written by Eurodesk Brussels Link