Bridging Opportunities: Empowerment for Young Roma through English Language and Soft Skills Training in the Czech Republic

The overarching goal of this program is to address the critical need for enhanced English language proficiency and the cultivation of essential soft skills among the Roma youth population. This program aims to create pathways for improved access to education, expanded employment opportunities, increased social integration for Roma youth across the Czech Republic, and greater capacity to participate in international exchanges and collaborate with international NGOs.

Objectives

• The program objectives are:
  • measurably increase the English language ability of Roma youth (ages 15-25); and
  • participants in the program acquire soft skills that increase their employment opportunities and strengthen their overall educational performance.

Funding Information

• Number of awards anticipated: 1 award
• Award amount: $100,000
• Total available funding: $100,000
• Anticipated program start date: September 2024
• This notice is subject to availability of funding.
• Duration
  • Proposed programs should be completed in 24 months or less.

Eligible Activities

• Project activities, which can be carried out directly by the primary implementing organization or which may include sub-awards to partner organizations, should include all the following components:
  • English Language Proficiency Enhancement:
    • Develop a dynamic and interactive English language curriculum catered to the specific needs and backgrounds of young Roma individuals. Develop a schedule of courses that utilize innovative teaching methodologies, multimedia resources, and culturally relevant content to create a supportive and engaging learning environment.
  • Soft Skills Development: 
    • Develop and provide comprehensive and age-appropriate training modules focusing on essential soft skills, which may include topics such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, job interviews, public speaking, computer skills, and leadership. Through experiential learning activities, role-playing scenarios, and real-world applications, participants should gain the necessary skills and confidence to navigate academic, professional, and social contexts effectively.
  • Empowerment and Opportunities: 
    • Offer mentorship opportunities, networking, and access to resources aimed at holistic personal and professional development. This includes guidance on career pathways, educational opportunities, and strategies for overcoming societal barriers faced by Roma youth.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: 
    • Implement robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress and impact of the program. Regular assessments, feedback sessions, and qualitative analysis will ensure continuous improvement and accountability throughout program implementation. Proposals should note how many students will participate, expected completion rates, and how progress on skills will be measured, including whether participants will receive any kind of certification for completing the program.
• Applicants should include in their budgets all costs necessary to implement the proposed English language and soft skills training, such as:
  • Designing (or adjusting existing) curriculum for courses
  • Hiring and/or contracting English language instructors
  • Hiring and/or contracting instructor assistants
  • Implementation and oversight of courses
  • Costs to publicize courses, recruit and select students
  • Testing of course participants (in the course of the program and at the graduation of participants).
  • Evaluation of impact
  • Travel costs
  • Rent of training spaces if necessary

Participants and Audiences

• The program targets young Roma individuals aged 15-25 residing in the Czech Republic, with a particular emphasis on reaching those facing socio-economic barriers to education and employment opportunities. Competitive proposals will create program cohorts in more than one Czech city. Proposals should include information on which specific cities will be targeted for courses, how many students will be enrolled, and what age cohorts within the target will be included in the proposed programs.

Priority Region

• Czech Republic, with particular emphasis on activities outside the capital of Prague.

Eligibility Criteria

• The following organizations are eligible to apply:
  • Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/nongovernmental organizations (Czech or U.S.)
  • Public educational institutions (Czech or U.S.)

For more information, visit U.S. Embassy in Czech Republic.