Skills for Life

Project location: Chiang Mai

Number of children supported: 28

Type of support: Scholarship

Period of support: Since 2015

In 2014, Dominique Leutwiler founded the “Skills for Life” project as she saw the need to further support children from the age of 9th grade. Many foundations in the north of Thailand support children from young age until 9th grade. Afterwards, young teens are often left on their own and without further education struggle to succeed in life.

Upon the successful end of their school year, children of the age of 15 are taught about health, nutrition, ecological farming, languages, technologies and vocational skills. Some manage to attend universities.

This project is supported by private donations, sponsorships and cooperation from local businesses. Companies recognize and appreciate the robust training provided by “Skills for Life” and many benefit from the trained young workforce. The skills learned at “Skills for Life” provide good opportunities for students to find jobs.

In 2015 Primavera started funding the “Skills for Life” project through donations and will cover costs for transportation and learning materials. Bosch Thailand provides additional financial support and vocational training. In addition, Bosch associates provide counselling and connect the foundation with Faculty of Arts at Chiang Mai University where the children can reach out to their mentors on vocational skills topic.