O programa jovem aprendiz como instrumento de inclusão social e profissional no Brasil: uma análise jurídica e social

Abstract

The Young Apprentice Program has become synonymous with an instrument of social and professional inclusion for youth in Brazil, establishing a special hiring framework aimed at methodical technical and professional training for young people between 14 and 24 years old. It focuses primarily on the comprehensive protection foreseen in the Statute of the Child and Adolescent and also on the principles of the Constitution, emphasizing education and the dignity of the human person. In Brazil, some medium and large-sized companies are obligated to meet hiring quotas for these young people, as Brazilian law seeks to consolidate public policies to combat structural inequalities and expand access to the formal labor market, especially for young people living in situations of socioeconomic vulnerability. Consequently, it is necessary to understand that, from a labor law perspective, the apprenticeship contract ensures differentiated rights, such as reduced working hours, mandatory theoretical training, limits on the execution of dangerous activities, and protection against activities that exploit the young person hired, reaffirming the program's educational character. In the social sphere, the program aims to promote the formation of youth citizenship, reducing school dropout rates, encouraging students to remain in socio-educational environments, and fostering the development of more qualified professional paths. Therefore, it also holds strategic relevance by promoting the inclusion of vulnerable youth, who are often seen as marginalized, contributing to addressing intersectional inequalities and democratizing job opportunities.