Suuntaamo - Kohti ammattia

The Suuntaamo project addresses a pressing regional challenge: youth unemployment has
increased significantly in the Ostrobothnia region, while participation in employment-promoting services has simultaneously declined. This development has particularly worsened the situation of young adults who lack a vocational qualification and are excluded from both education and the labour market. Many individuals in this target group have experienced interrupted studies,
lack essential study skills, and face difficulties with life management. Existing education and
employment services often fail to reach them early enough or flexibly enough to meet their
needs.
The main objective of the project is to design and pilot the Suuntaamo model – an institutionbased, individually guided and low-threshold coaching programme that serves as a transitional path for individuals for whom a direct entry into vocational education or employment is not a realistic option. The model is built on gradual progression, empowerment, and personalised
support. The pedagogical approach emphasises small, concrete steps, clear visual learning paths, and positive experiences of success.
The Suuntaamo coaching includes three main components: support for life management and everyday skills, strengthening of study skills and functional learning, and a vocational element.
In the vocational component, participants complete full units or partial components of vocational qualifications in the restaurant and catering sector and the social and health care sector – fields that face both labour shortages and offer low-threshold job opportunities. The coaching follows a rolling admission model and is delivered in both individual and small group formats, with strong everyday guidance and personalised support.
The model will be piloted at Vamia and integrated into the organisation’s permanent operations after the project ends. It complements existing services for individuals in need of special support and addresses a clearly identified service gap. In the long term, the project aims to prevent social exclusion, promote educational equality, and strengthen transitions into education and
the labour market. Suuntaamo will also be used preventively within the educational institution: students at risk of dropping out can transfer to Suuntaamo to receive additional support without interrupting their studies.
The project does not duplicate existing regional services but adds value by complementing the current service network and working in close collaboration with employment services, third sector actors, and other regional stakeholders. Cooperation structures and responsibilities are co-designed and will be further strengthened during the project.
Key results of the project include: piloting and documenting a new operating model, successful transitions of participants into education or employment, the introduction of digital open badges, accessible and learner-centred learning environments, and improved regional service coordination. Results and models will be disseminated through a final seminar and regional networks and remain available for use after the project ends.
The Suuntaamo project strengthens the employability of young adults in vulnerable situations, supports guided learning, and increases inclusion. It develops coaching services that provide participants with an individual and gradual path toward education or employment when a direct transition is not feasible. Suuntaamo also enhances the accessibility of services and supports
target group transitions into learning and work. In doing so, the project promotes employability and helps prevent marginalisation from the service system. It also supports the priorities of the Ostrobothnia Regional Strategy by improving access to skilled labour and promoting inclusion in the region.