AkzoNobel

Since 1994, AkzoNobel and Plan International have been collaborating to ensure better opportunities for children and adolescents worldwide. This long-term collaboration focuses mainly on youth employment through vocational training. Together, AkzoNobel and Plan International have made possible more than fifty projects in fifteen countries in Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia.

The Education Fund was founded with AkzoNobel on a commitment to improve the quality of education for children worldwide. It has also developed a focus on improving young people’s employability and career prospects. Wijnand Bruinsma, Director of Sustainability at AkzoNobel, says: “Since 1994, AkzoNobel has been actively committed to the communities in which we operate. Together with Plan International, through our joint Education Fund, we help young people towards a future in which they can establish a good career – including in the paint industry. I’m proud to say that we’ve trained thousands of young people during the three decades we’ve been working together.” 

Helping young people to find a job and look to the future

Currently, AkzoNobel finances the Saksham project in India (Delhi and Udaipur), in which adolescents, particularly girls and young women, participate in vocational training or are supported in setting up their own business. Even though the Indian economy is rapidly growing, adolescents don’t get the chance to reap the rewards due to a lack of education and the necessary professional skills. After completing the project, most participants found decent work or started their own company. This improves their chances for economic growth and an independent future. 

Opportunities for girls in the paint industry

Some adolescent women also get the chance to participate in vocational training at the AkzoNobel Paint Academy in Delhi. Here, they train to be professional painters and pursue a career in a traditionally male-dominated field. These women therefore don’t only find a job, but also help break through traditional gender-stereotypes and gender barriers.