A new mentorship program in Norway's Vestfold region pairs experienced seniors with struggling vocational students to combat the country's dropout crisis. The initiative comes as statistics reveal one in six students abandon vocational training programs before completion.
Marius Løstegaard Cederborg, a 25-year-old CNC machining apprentice, credits his mentor Tor Emil Indsetviken with keeping him in the program. After facing multiple rejections and experiencing depression during his job search, Cederborg found stability through the mentorship arrangement. The 68-year-old retired machine operator and educator provides both technical guidance and emotional support.
Vestfold and Troms counties face the nation's highest vocational dropout rates at 23 percent, significantly above the national average of 17.7 percent. Project manager Jon Edgar Karlsen explains that students often quit when they feel overwhelmed by challenges. The mentorship program aims to provide what he calls oil in the machinery for these young apprentices.
The program addresses more than just educational hurdles. Mentors help with various life challenges, including financial difficulties and personal relationships. This comprehensive support system has shown promising early results among the 40 apprentices currently participating.
Eight participants have already earned their trade certificates while seven others have passed previously failed exams. The initiative represents a win-win situation according to organizers, benefiting both seniors seeking purpose and young people needing guidance.
Government officials have taken notice of the program's success. Sindre Lysø from the Education Ministry expressed enthusiasm for the approach, noting that counties already receive adequate funding for such initiatives. He anticipates watching the program's long-term effects with interest.
The timing is crucial as Norway faces rising youth unemployment. Recent labor force surveys show unemployment at 4.7 percent nationally, with the sharpest increase among workers under 25. Approximately 12,000 more young people are unemployed compared to last year.
Anders Anundsen, regional employment director, emphasizes the importance of keeping young people in education. Those without qualifications face limited opportunities in the job market, he notes. The mentorship program represents one creative approach to addressing this challenge.
Other regions are now considering similar programs. Agder county is exploring implementation possibilities, with three municipalities prepared to participate. Local officials recognize the value of utilizing what they call elder power to support the next generation.
The program's expansion depends on securing adequate funding, but early success suggests this intergenerational approach could become more widespread across Norway's vocational education system.