Over the past six months, we worked with over 500 young people through a training program that helped them better understand their role in society. The program focused on three key areas: civic education, media literacy, and inclusion. These topics are more important than ever in today’s world.
Learning together across schools and youth groups
Together with 25 schools and youth organizations, we delivered 75 online workshops that helped young people better understand how democracy works, how to spot and counter misinformation, and how to promote inclusive, respectful communities. Every youth who took part went through all three modules, giving them a broad perspective and a shared foundation to build on.
We were inspired by the level of curiosity, energy, and commitment these young people showed. Whether we were discussing fake news, exploring their rights and responsibilities as citizens, or talking openly about discrimination and social exclusion, the message was clear: young people care deeply about their communities and want to make a difference.
From learning to action
Now, it’s time for the next step: turning knowledge into action. Starting with autumn 2025, participants will work in small groups to develop action plans based on the needs they identify in their schools or local communities.
They will create an action plan on topics chosen by them, but connected to the project modules (democracy, civic participation, diversity and anti-discrimination campaigns, media education, etc.). Examples of activities may include:
- debates or events on topics of interest to students (rights, education, environment, fake news, civic engagement, etc.),
- mock elections,
- public consultations in the school and the community,
- exhibitions, plays, role-playing games or simulations,
- creative activities on topics of interest to students,
- workshops or information sessions on civic or social topics.
With our support, they will go on to implement youth-led, small-scale projects that reflect their priorities — from awareness campaigns to practical initiatives for more inclusive spaces.
What will follow
We’re happy of the work we have done up until now with the youths and we’re even more excited for what’s coming next. We thank them and to the youth workers and school teachers for all their support. Stay tuned as these young change makers begin to roll out their projects, one idea at a time. We’ll continue to post on our website and social media accounts about their projects.
These initiatives are part of the EUTEAM project funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
