The INTexPaL project, aimed at enhancing the textile and clothing sectors in Lebanon and Palestine, is meticulously designed to address the explicit needs and gaps identified through comprehensive needs analysis and aligns seamlessly with the specific objectives of the call.

This project will present the best practices in the operation of the textile and clothing sector industries and adapt them for the modern educational environment for 120 beneficiaries. It will provide them with the skills required innovations for in the T&C industry, according to the EURATEX report, and especially the areas of Smart high-performance materials and products; Digital manufacturing and supply chains; and Bio-based materials & processing. Moreover, the Project will train students in entrepreneurial skills to help them run their own businesses, since SMEs are the most common paradigm of entrepreneurial activity in T&C.

The project addresses the objectives and priorities of the call, enabling young people living in Lebanon and Palestine (including refugees) to achieve self-reliance, inclusion in society and take actively part in the economic growth. The project:

•           Contributes to the priorities of the call by turning the focus into supporting youth populations affected by displacement and unemployment, which are priority issues in the region.

•           Facilize the green transition of the T&C sector, that can create job opportunities, especially for the non-privileged and the young, who will have a better opportunity to be part of the coming transition.

•           Provide vocational training in the area of Textile and Clothing, remove skills development barriers and provide specializations relevant to the Textile sectors.

•           Aligns with regional efforts to promote the modernization and competitiveness in the global markets Textile & Clothing (T&C) sector, based on a successful blend of creativity, craftsmanship, knowhow and innovation, effectively combined with the latest trends (smart textiles, ICT, eco materials and processes).

•           Contributes to the broader goal of producing sustainable products and businesses.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the project are:

1. To develop training on-job-based modules on textile and clothing sector maintenance for the target groups through informal training. It will ensure access to disadvantaged people groups by enhancing the motivation to participate in the education process and providing the necessary resources.

2. The modules will adopt a task-based methodology wherein the scope of the curriculum will not be limited to educational objectives but will also support the trainee in the everyday working environment.

3. The curriculum will combine technical skills with economics, safety, and management competencies - satisfying industry and economic needs by empowering the target group.

4. The project will increase the employability of the target group in local and regional markets by training them in the skills necessary for the textile and clothing industry.

5. The project will upskill and reskill employees who require appropriate and updated education and programs and prioritizes the modernization of VET education.

6. The project aims to provide significant internship opportunities.

Specific Objectives and Indicators.

This impact brought by the collaboration network will be the result of the broad participation of various stakeholders, such as local authorities, company representants and teachers, as stated in the EFT Torino Process Assessment Report. The project's objectives are crafted to be clear, measurable, realistic, and achievable within the project duration, directly addressing the identified needs and challenges.

• Upgrade Innovative Lab Centres:

• Objective: To upgrade "Garment and Fashion Design Centres" in each country to support the textile industry by providing access to new technologies and innovation trends.

• Indicator: Number of lab centres upgraded; Target value: 4 (two in each country).

• Produce High-Quality Vocational Program Courses:

• Objective: To develop vocational courses incorporating Work-Based Learning (WBL) and entrepreneurship skills according to labor market needs.

• Indicator: Number of vocational program courses developed; Target value: 10 courses.

• Design and Implement Training Programs:

• Objective: To offer comprehensive training for various stakeholders, enhancing skills in line with market demands.

• Indicator: Number of participants trained; Target value: 120 participants. • Develop and Implement Promotional Strategies:

• Objective: To improve market access through promotional activities and business linkages.

• Indicator: Number of businesses participating in trade shows/fashion weeks; Target value: 15 businesses.

• Provide Internship Opportunities:

• Objective: To offer internships that facilitate practical learning and industry exposure.

• Indicator: Number of internships provided; Target value: 60 internships.