“I feel like I’m making progress”: in Seine-Saint-Denis, nearly 8,000 young people will be able to sign a youth engagement contract

They were a little intimidated but above all motivated. Nine young people from the local mission of Aubervilliers met the prefect of Seine-Saint-Denis, Jacques Witkowski, this Tuesday, March 1 to sign their youth employment contracts. Launched by Prime Minister Jean Castex the same morning at Rosny 2, the scheme aims to bring young dropouts back to employment.

The prefect came to inaugurate this new system, which will affect nearly 8,000 young people aged 16 to 25 in the department. The State issues a check for 30 million euros for all young people in Île-de-France, more than 20% of whom are dedicated to Seine-Saint-Denis.

This contract is aimed at young people without employment or training. “They register for common workshops and have a personalized follow-up of six to twelve months to find a job that suits them,” explains one of the trainers, Mehadji Hassan. They will have 15 to 20 hours of support per week with a real schedule. »

Up to 500 euros in allowances will be paid to each young person, “subject to attendance and acceptance of offers”. In the department, this device comes “at the right time. We know the situation in Seine-Saint-Denis, where many young people are far from training or employment. Today, we must be able to support those who wish to do so over the long term”, stresses Jacques Witkowski.

“A springboard” for young people

Thomas is 23 years old and wants to go to work-study computer studies. “I already have some professional experience. I expect psychological support, an adviser who listens to me to help me in my job search,” he confides. He does not hide his pride in getting involved. “I have the impression of moving forward, he slips, when signing his contract with the prefect. And then the allowance of 500 euros, it really helps. »

Ruben, he wants to create his business in transport and logistics. “I know it’s particular but I really need advice. At 21, he admits “needing a framework”.

After three years in sales, Ange found a background in real estate. “I want to become a property manager. Today, I need to find a work-study employer,” explains the young woman. For her, the youth engagement contract is a “springboard, another look at (her) project”.

The trainer in charge of their follow-up assures him: “it creates a lasting relationship and I am sure that many will find a job”.