Did you know that 9.3% of young people across the European Union leave school early — with rates significantly higher in rural areas?
While the EU has made progress in reducing early school leaving over the past decade, rural communities continue to face persistent challenges that hinder equal access to education. These disparities have a direct impact on young people’s futures and on the long-term development of local communities.
Educational attainment is one of the strongest predictors of social mobility and economic participation. When young people in rural areas leave school early, it sets off a chain reaction that affects:
- Employment opportunities
- Local economic growth
- Community resilience
- Social inclusion and youth engagement
For many rural regions, limited access to quality education, fewer training options, and geographical barriers make it harder for young people to stay engaged in learning. As a result, early school leaving becomes both a symptom and a driver of wider inequalities.
At the European Institute for Local Development (EILD), ensuring equal access to education is not just an initiative — it is a core part of our mission.
Through EU-funded projects, strategic partnerships, and community-based actions, EILD works to:
- Expand educational opportunities in underserved and rural areas
- Support young people’s transition to training, higher education, and employment
- Promote digital learning and innovative teaching methods
- Strengthen local communities by investing in youth skills and empowerment
Our goal is simple: every young person, regardless of where they live, deserves the chance to learn, grow, and contribute to their community’s future.