JAMROAD and career guidance

JAMROAD and the career guidance programme of the Junior Achievement Foundation Hungary (JAM) offer free workshops for primary and secondary schools, developing students’ entrepreneurship competence. These workshops are designed to foster self-awareness, introduce the world of work, and build essential entrepreneurial skills through engaging, interactive, and experiential learning. By simulating real-world challenges and facilitating direct encounters with accomplished professionals, JAMROAD and career guidance by JAM equips students with the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary for future success in both further studies and the labour market.

Key Activities and Student Experience

JAMROAD offers free interactive workshops where students engage in playful, creative tasks to familiarise themselves with fundamental economic and entrepreneurial concepts. Participants form teams to develop and implement their own business ideas, experiencing first-hand the processes of business planning, marketing, and finance. These activities are tailored to different age groups: for primary students, the focus is on skill development in areas such as creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. A distinctive feature of the programme is the opportunity for students to meet and interact with outstanding professionals from various fields. These guest experts share personal stories, discuss the skills they had to develop, the challenges they faced, and the strategies they used to overcome obstacles. Such encounters provide inspiration and practical insights, helping students to envision their own potential career paths.

At the career guidance workshops, students can explore their own skills and abilities through a series of situational exercises. The activities enable them to see what their strengths are and which competences they need to develop before entering the labour market.

Program Features and Pedagogical Principles

JAMROAD and career guidance by JAM are grounded in experiential and student-centered pedagogy. The workshops entail situational tasks and role-playing exercises that allow students to map their own abilities and competencies. This diagnostic approach helps them identify strengths and areas for improvement before entering the workforce. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including investment simulations, the process of founding a business from idea to realisation, and the importance of self-care and community support through insurance and collective action. The pedagogical principles emphasise active participation, reflection, and peer learning. Students are encouraged to collaborate, take initiative, and make decisions within a safe, supportive environment. This approach not only builds entrepreneurial knowledge but also cultivates self-efficacy, resilience, and a sense of responsibility.

Methodology and Structure

Workshops can be organised as single (1×45 minutes), double (2×45 minutes), or triple (3×45 minutes) lessons, depending on the needs of the school and the age group of participants. The content is always tailored through prior consultation, ensuring relevance and engagement. The structure typically involves an introductory phase focused on self-exploration, followed by team-based project work and culminating in presentations or reflections. The inclusion of real-life case studies and professional testimonials further enriches the learning experience.