Cipó uses its communication expertise and experience to develop educational models for the city. Launched in 2003, the Estúdio Aprendiz, sponsored by Instituto Unibanco, was conceived as a vehicle of workable alternatives to enact the Apprenticeship Law, which makes the hiring of apprentices compulsory for medium and large companies.

The project forms teenagers, ages 15-16, by developing their attitudes, knowledge and skills in communication technology-related areas, qualifying them to take on jobs at partner companies. The NGO follows through with their students as they pursue their new jobs.

The trial class involved 22 youngsters and 13 companies. Last year, after signing the partnership with Instituto Unibanco and their constant exchange of experience, the project extended its reach and can now fulfill its goal of forming and monitoring the progress of 200 students per year.

So far the program prepared 64 people, and linked up with 34 companies from Salvador and neighboring areas. The participants' parents have also been involved through meetings on the importance of systematically following up their children in their first professional experience.