Schwerin (dpa/mv) - 141 young people started a voluntary ecological year (FÖJ) in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania on Thursday. Environment Minister Till Backhaus (SPD) said at the official opening at the Rostock Zoo: "An FÖJ means: many new experiences, insights into the professional world, the opportunity to grow personally and a good time."
According to Backhaus, zoos are the most popular places for young people to work. In addition to dealing with exotic animals, in most cases there is also the possibility of completing an apprenticeship. Animal shelters and farms are also very popular.
The Voluntary Ecological Year is largely financed with EU money. The minister explained that seven million euros are available for this in the years 2021 to 2027 via the European Social Fund Plus. The Federal Ministry for Family Affairs supplements the funding by up to 200 euros per participant. Young people between the ages of 16 and 27 can take part.
