Jim Nicholson, Ulster Unionist MEP, welcomed students from Northern Ireland to the European Parliament in Strasbourg this week as part of a European school exchange, known as the Comenius project. 

It aims to develop young people’s skills and competencies necessary for their personal development and future employment. Students from across Europe gave presentations on the challenges of youth unemployment and how their respective countries had tackled the issue, as well as the obstacles placed in front of young entrepreneurs.

 Speaking after the event, Mr Nicholson said:

“I was very impressed by the students from the Comenius project.

“To present ideas on youth unemployment and young enterprise so confidently, in what for many of the students was not their mother-tongue was remarkable, and represents just one aspect of the great work the Comenius project is doing.”

Two students from Lurgan presented the Comenius project hoodie, which they have been marketing and selling through social media.  All the profits made from the hoodie will be given to charity.

Mr Nicholson continued:

“I was delighted to see young students from Northern Ireland get involved in these projects.  Producing and selling to customers across Europe is no small feat and I congratulate them on what they have achieved so far.  

“I was delighted to support the new €14 billion Erasmus+ programme for 2014-2020, which incorporates the Comenius project and like-minded schemes, streamlining existing services and providing new opportunities for our young people.

“As the world becomes ever smaller, younger generations from Northern Ireland will face more competition to attain the best jobs and opportunities.  It is crucial that through the brilliant work of the Comenius project, our young people can diversify their skill sets and grasp these opportunities.”