In a groundbreaking study focusing on NEETs (young people Not in Education, Employment, or Training), Maastricht University researchers Lynn van Vugt and Mark Levels are shedding light on the challenges faced by this often-overlooked group. Their research, which delves into the complexities of NEETs aged 15 to 29, highlights the need for a personalised approach and policy changes to address the vulnerabilities faced by these young individuals.
Van Vugt’s Ph.D. research, supervised by Professor Mark Levels, is part of an international consortium study on NEETs, examining the role of institutions from an international perspective. The findings reveal that low literacy is the strongest predictor of becoming NEET across countries, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.
“At the national level, Van Vugt examined the role of the family in becoming NEET. Her findings showed that parental resources (income, education and skills) have a protective and preventive effect,” the report states. However, unexpected events like divorce or a significant drop in household income can lead to school dropout, a strong predictor of becoming NEET.
Levels emphasizes the importance of policy changes, stating, “Lynn has convincingly shown that children are often not to blame for dropping out of school. It’s their socioeconomic background that makes them vulnerable. Their disengagement usually stems from a lack of ability rather than a lack of willingness. If you look at it that way, it’s clear that policy changes are needed.”
The collaboration between Van Vugt and Levels extends beyond research, forming a genuine team that values both academic and societal relevance. Van Vugt appreciates the opportunity for their findings to be utilized by policymakers, ensuring that the research does not merely end up in a drawer.
The researchers propose that a one-size-fits-all solution is not suitable for preventing young people from becoming NEET. Van Vugt suggests a personalized approach, stating, “There’s always more going on than just low literacy. Every case is complex.” They advocate for larger roles for schools, the introduction of paid internships, and addressing obstacles through a case-by-case approach.
As Lynn van Vugt takes on her role as project leader at the Research Centre for Education and the Labour Market (ROA), she continues to work on publications and a new study focused on persistent NEETs. Mark Levels, dean of lifelong development at Maastricht University, expects NEETs to remain a major social problem, particularly given the increase in psychosocial issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers remain committed to making a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable young individuals through their ongoing work.
