Early 2026 marks the time to take stock of Phase II of the YES program, which ran from 2022 through the end of 2025.
In total, 2,035 young women (out of 3,597 young people, or 56%) successfully completed market-oriented vocational and entrepreneurial training. Within three to six months of completing the training, 72% of graduates had secured employment and/or a stable income.
A closer look reveals that 1,030 young women were trained at public or private vocational training centers, while 477 underwent practical training with local artisan businesses.
These years highlighted key challenges: for some women, attending training centers remained difficult. Many were forced to interrupt their training due to domestic obligations, a lack of childcare facilities, and limited family support—often stemming from cultural norms that discourage participation in training programs.
Consequently, the new YES III phase, launching in 2026, is adopting even more inclusive approaches, notably by adapting training formats, increasing support for young mothers, and facilitating family dialogues.
© photos / Simon Opladen / Helvetas
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