MYC- Bridging Gaps, Empowering Youth
Basic information
Project Title
MYC- Bridging Gaps, Empowering Youth
Full project title
Mobile Youth Center (MYC)- Pioneering Inclusive Youth Empowerment in Rural and Suburban Communities
Category
Prioritising the places and people that need it the most
Project Description
Mobile Youth Centre- is a dynamic, on-the-go youth centre designed to inspire and educate the next generation, right where they live. Our unique adapted van, equipped with cutting-edge resources, brings civic education, active citizenship, digitalisation, youth programs, and media literacy education to the doorsteps of rural and suburban youth. Collaborating with local schools, we're fostering inclusion and empowering young minds to shape their future.
Geographical Scope
National
Project Region
Albania
Urban or rural issues
It addresses urban-rural linkages
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
EU Programme or fund
No
Description of the project
Summary
Mobile Youth Centre- is a dynamic, on-the-go youth centre designed to inspire and educate the next generation, right where they live. Our unique adapted van, equipped with cutting-edge resources, brings active citizenship, digitalisation, youth programs, and media literacy education to the doorsteps of rural and suburban youth. Collaborating with local schools, we're fostering inclusion and empowering young minds to shape their future. The project aims to bridge the digital divide and enhance educational opportunities for young people in suburban and rural areas. It focuses on empowering these youths through innovative, accessible, and engaging learning experiences.
Target Groups:
Youth in Suburban and Rural Areas: The primary focus is on young people who have limited access to digital tools and educational resources.
Marginalized Communities: Special attention is given to minority groups like the Roma community, ensuring inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in all activities.
Specific Objectives:
Digital Literacy Enhancement: To provide young people with access to digital tools and resources, including tablets, VR, and interactive platforms like Padlet and Mentimeter.
Civic Education and Engagement: To foster civic awareness and engagement through non-formal education methods, using experiential learning tools like board and floor games.
Media Literacy: To enhance media literacy among youth using digital tools and engaging methodologies.
Promotion of Youth Programs: To raise awareness about various youth programs and opportunities, using storytelling and video production techniques to appeal to the target audience.
Outcomes:
Improved Access to Digital Tools for young people
Enhanced Educational Engagement through Interactive learning methods
Empowerment and Skill Development for youngsters in rural aereas
Community and Cultural Inclusion through various workshops performed
Target Groups:
Youth in Suburban and Rural Areas: The primary focus is on young people who have limited access to digital tools and educational resources.
Marginalized Communities: Special attention is given to minority groups like the Roma community, ensuring inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in all activities.
Specific Objectives:
Digital Literacy Enhancement: To provide young people with access to digital tools and resources, including tablets, VR, and interactive platforms like Padlet and Mentimeter.
Civic Education and Engagement: To foster civic awareness and engagement through non-formal education methods, using experiential learning tools like board and floor games.
Media Literacy: To enhance media literacy among youth using digital tools and engaging methodologies.
Promotion of Youth Programs: To raise awareness about various youth programs and opportunities, using storytelling and video production techniques to appeal to the target audience.
Outcomes:
Improved Access to Digital Tools for young people
Enhanced Educational Engagement through Interactive learning methods
Empowerment and Skill Development for youngsters in rural aereas
Community and Cultural Inclusion through various workshops performed
Key objectives for sustainability
Promoting Sustainable Community Development through Civic Education and Youth Program Opportunities for young people
Our program in Civic Education and Information about EU Youth Programs aim to empower young people in semi-urban and rural areas of Albania with the knowledge and skills to actively participate in sustainable community development. We conduct interactive sessions using Floor Games, Board Games and discussions that focus on societal roles and active participation of citizens in the community life.
Bridging the Digital Divide with Environmentally Conscious Digital Education for youngsters from disadvantaged communities
Our program in Digitalisation is closely linked with providing inclusive digital education while promoting awareness of the environmental impacts of technology. The Digital Education module should not only immerse youth in digital literacy and technology trends but also educate them about eco-friendly technology practices, digital waste reduction, and the importance of sustainable tech development.
This objective aligns with the New European Bauhaus principles by showing how digital empowerment can go hand in hand with environmental consciousness, setting an example for how technology education can be integrated with sustainability.
Fostering Informed Decision-Making and Social Cohesion Through Enhanced Media Literacy for Youth
Our project aims to improve media literacy among youth in semi-urban and rural areas, enabling them to critically engage with information and counter disinformation. Through the Media Literacy program, provide tools and workshops for young people to distinguish reliable information sources, understand media's role in society, and use media responsibly in promoting sustainable and inclusive communities. This objective upholds the New European Bauhaus values of inclusion and informed participation, ensuring young people are equipped to make decisions that benefit their communities &the broader environment.
Our program in Civic Education and Information about EU Youth Programs aim to empower young people in semi-urban and rural areas of Albania with the knowledge and skills to actively participate in sustainable community development. We conduct interactive sessions using Floor Games, Board Games and discussions that focus on societal roles and active participation of citizens in the community life.
Bridging the Digital Divide with Environmentally Conscious Digital Education for youngsters from disadvantaged communities
Our program in Digitalisation is closely linked with providing inclusive digital education while promoting awareness of the environmental impacts of technology. The Digital Education module should not only immerse youth in digital literacy and technology trends but also educate them about eco-friendly technology practices, digital waste reduction, and the importance of sustainable tech development.
This objective aligns with the New European Bauhaus principles by showing how digital empowerment can go hand in hand with environmental consciousness, setting an example for how technology education can be integrated with sustainability.
Fostering Informed Decision-Making and Social Cohesion Through Enhanced Media Literacy for Youth
Our project aims to improve media literacy among youth in semi-urban and rural areas, enabling them to critically engage with information and counter disinformation. Through the Media Literacy program, provide tools and workshops for young people to distinguish reliable information sources, understand media's role in society, and use media responsibly in promoting sustainable and inclusive communities. This objective upholds the New European Bauhaus values of inclusion and informed participation, ensuring young people are equipped to make decisions that benefit their communities &the broader environment.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
Mobile Youth Center (MYC)aims to enhance the aesthetics and quality of experience for young people through innovative and participatory actions. We want to reach young people where they live, especially those young people who are geographically disadvantaged and have no youth centres in their communities. Through use of innovative tools and digitalisation that are not only visually appealing but also emotionally and culturally enriching we aim to boost youth sense of belonging and integrates new, enduring cultural and social values. The concept of MYC going in schools or where young people live provide a unique and meaningful experience that resonates with the community's cultural identity and development.
Inclusive and Participatory Design: The designed workshops are proposed by our young activists and volunteers and will serve mostly to youngsters who have less opportunity to participate in these activities. Our project prioritizes inclusivity and participatory processes where youngsters get engaged and contribute to the learning processes. By involving youngsters in the design process of this initiative, we make sure that the project caters to diverse needs and preferences and is accessible to all.
MYC boost Sustainable and Eco-friendly Approach in its operations: The project incorporates sustainability in its aesthetic design, utilizing eco-friendly materials and practices. Using digital tools in our workshops not only minimizes environmental impact but also promotes a deeper connection with nature, enhancing the overall experience.
MYC is a innovative tool to boost youth engagement and can be replicable in various contexts.
Since now, the project has successfully engaged the community and stakeholders such as schools, local institutions, young people resulting in a positive and lasting impact. We would like to promote it further to become a model which enhance quality of life for young people and also foster community engagement and inclusion.
Inclusive and Participatory Design: The designed workshops are proposed by our young activists and volunteers and will serve mostly to youngsters who have less opportunity to participate in these activities. Our project prioritizes inclusivity and participatory processes where youngsters get engaged and contribute to the learning processes. By involving youngsters in the design process of this initiative, we make sure that the project caters to diverse needs and preferences and is accessible to all.
MYC boost Sustainable and Eco-friendly Approach in its operations: The project incorporates sustainability in its aesthetic design, utilizing eco-friendly materials and practices. Using digital tools in our workshops not only minimizes environmental impact but also promotes a deeper connection with nature, enhancing the overall experience.
MYC is a innovative tool to boost youth engagement and can be replicable in various contexts.
Since now, the project has successfully engaged the community and stakeholders such as schools, local institutions, young people resulting in a positive and lasting impact. We would like to promote it further to become a model which enhance quality of life for young people and also foster community engagement and inclusion.
Key objectives for inclusion
A central objective for our project is to bridge the digital divide by providing access to modern technologies like tablets and VR (Virtual Reality) to young people in these areas. This initiative is crucial as many of these youths have never had the opportunity to use such technologies, which are increasingly important in education, skill development, and social connectivity.
The project aims to introduce and facilitate youth workshops, providing educational and experiential learning opportunities using board and floor games. These workshops are designed to be inclusive, catering to the needs and interests of young people in suburban and rural areas, many of whom are unfamiliar with EU youth programs and broader educational opportunities.
Recognizing the geographical disadvantages of suburban and rural areas in Albania, the project prioritizes making its resources and activities accessible to these areas.
The project is mindful of the cultural diversity within these areas, particularly the presence of minority groups like the Roma people. Activities and content are culturally sensitive and inclusive, ensuring that they resonate with and are respectful of the diverse backgrounds of the participants.
Also we plan to actively engages with the local community, including parents, educators, and community leaders, to foster a supportive environment. It empowers youths to become active participants in their communities, promoting a sense of belonging and identity.
From our experience till now, our project serves as an exemplary model of how to effectively address inclusion in geographically and socially disadvantaged areas. By successfully engaging young people who have been traditionally excluded from digital advancements and educational opportunities, the project demonstrates a scalable and replicable model for similar initiatives.
The project aims to introduce and facilitate youth workshops, providing educational and experiential learning opportunities using board and floor games. These workshops are designed to be inclusive, catering to the needs and interests of young people in suburban and rural areas, many of whom are unfamiliar with EU youth programs and broader educational opportunities.
Recognizing the geographical disadvantages of suburban and rural areas in Albania, the project prioritizes making its resources and activities accessible to these areas.
The project is mindful of the cultural diversity within these areas, particularly the presence of minority groups like the Roma people. Activities and content are culturally sensitive and inclusive, ensuring that they resonate with and are respectful of the diverse backgrounds of the participants.
Also we plan to actively engages with the local community, including parents, educators, and community leaders, to foster a supportive environment. It empowers youths to become active participants in their communities, promoting a sense of belonging and identity.
From our experience till now, our project serves as an exemplary model of how to effectively address inclusion in geographically and socially disadvantaged areas. By successfully engaging young people who have been traditionally excluded from digital advancements and educational opportunities, the project demonstrates a scalable and replicable model for similar initiatives.
How Citizens benefit
Recognizing that this initiative is in its nascent stages, there is an acknowledged need to nurture and further develop the program. Continuous engagement with youth organizations, civil society, and citizens will be crucial in this phase. Their ongoing involvement will help in refining the project, addressing any gaps, and enhancing its overall impact. It's also essential to keep the lines of communication open with these stakeholders to ensure the project evolves in line with the changing needs and aspirations of the youth it serves. Numerous youth organizations in Albania have extended their congratulations on the inception of this project, recognizing its potential and value. These organizations have expressed a keen interest in cooperating with our MYC initiative, highlighting the project's relevance and appeal to youth-focused groups. Their involvement brings valuable perspectives and expertise, particularly in understanding the needs and aspirations of young people. The project team is committed to continuous improvement, taking into account the feedback and suggestions from all stakeholders. This iterative approach ensures that the project remains dynamic, relevant, and impactful in the long term.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Innovative character
One of the most innovative aspects of the project is the transformation of a minivan, provided by the Municipality of Tirana, into a mobile youth center. This approach is a significant departure from traditional, stationary youth centers or educational facilities. It allows for direct engagement with young people in their communities, especially in suburban and rural areas that are typically underserved in terms of educational and technological resources. Going where young people are and engaging them is a philosophy that should be applied since GenZ are difficult to wake up their interest.
Our project's emphasis on providing access to advanced technologies like tablets and VR, floor and board game to youths who have never had such experiences is innovative. This initiative in very innovative for Albania since it not only introduces young people to new digital tools but also bridges the digital divide, which is a common challenge in our country in suburban and rural areas.
Also, the involvement of multiple stakeholders, including youth organizations, educational institutions, and local municipalities, represents an innovative partnership model. This collaborative approach ensures a more holistic and community-centric implementation of the project, differing from more traditional, top-down methods.
Our project follow a tailored Educational Content and Workshops by creating customized educational content and workshops that cater specifically to the needs and interests of young people in suburban and rural areas. The project's model of incorporating feedback and evaluation from young people and continuously iterating and improving the program is an innovative approach. This dynamic model allows for rapid adaptation to changing needs and contexts, setting it apart from more static mainstream practices.
Our project's emphasis on providing access to advanced technologies like tablets and VR, floor and board game to youths who have never had such experiences is innovative. This initiative in very innovative for Albania since it not only introduces young people to new digital tools but also bridges the digital divide, which is a common challenge in our country in suburban and rural areas.
Also, the involvement of multiple stakeholders, including youth organizations, educational institutions, and local municipalities, represents an innovative partnership model. This collaborative approach ensures a more holistic and community-centric implementation of the project, differing from more traditional, top-down methods.
Our project follow a tailored Educational Content and Workshops by creating customized educational content and workshops that cater specifically to the needs and interests of young people in suburban and rural areas. The project's model of incorporating feedback and evaluation from young people and continuously iterating and improving the program is an innovative approach. This dynamic model allows for rapid adaptation to changing needs and contexts, setting it apart from more static mainstream practices.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
In order to develop this initiative was central involvement of experienced youth workers who brought insights into youth learning, engagement and workshop development.
We contacted one expert in technology and digital Literacy and also consulted with our youth activists. All of them played a crucial role, especially considering the project's focus on bridging the digital divide. They contributed their knowledge of the latest educational technologies, including tablets and VR, digital tools like kahoot, padlet, mentimeter etc.
We plan to engaged social workers in schools and also community engagement like parents, teachers, leaders in the community to ensure that the project is sensitive to the social dynamics of the communities it served, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
Also we involved designers and experts in mobility solutions were crucial in the physical transformation of the minivan into a mobile youth center, ensuring it was both functional and appealing.
MYC multidisciplinary approach will ensure all aspects of the project, from educational content to technological infrastructure and cultural sensitivity, are well-thought-out and integrated. 4 youth workers will facilitate the workshops in 4 thematic based in the interest of youngsters. The involvement of various youth workers/volunteers makes the project more responsive to the multifaceted needs of the youth, particularly those in marginalized or underserved communities.
By bringing together these diverse thematic in civic education, media literacy, digitalisation combined with information about EU youth program disciplines, we will be able to leverage a wide range of experience, ensuring that it was not only innovative and well-rounded but also sensitive to the diverse needs of the communities it aimed to serve. This multidisciplinary collaboration was key to our project's success and its ability to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people in suburban and rural areas.
We contacted one expert in technology and digital Literacy and also consulted with our youth activists. All of them played a crucial role, especially considering the project's focus on bridging the digital divide. They contributed their knowledge of the latest educational technologies, including tablets and VR, digital tools like kahoot, padlet, mentimeter etc.
We plan to engaged social workers in schools and also community engagement like parents, teachers, leaders in the community to ensure that the project is sensitive to the social dynamics of the communities it served, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
Also we involved designers and experts in mobility solutions were crucial in the physical transformation of the minivan into a mobile youth center, ensuring it was both functional and appealing.
MYC multidisciplinary approach will ensure all aspects of the project, from educational content to technological infrastructure and cultural sensitivity, are well-thought-out and integrated. 4 youth workers will facilitate the workshops in 4 thematic based in the interest of youngsters. The involvement of various youth workers/volunteers makes the project more responsive to the multifaceted needs of the youth, particularly those in marginalized or underserved communities.
By bringing together these diverse thematic in civic education, media literacy, digitalisation combined with information about EU youth program disciplines, we will be able to leverage a wide range of experience, ensuring that it was not only innovative and well-rounded but also sensitive to the diverse needs of the communities it aimed to serve. This multidisciplinary collaboration was key to our project's success and its ability to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people in suburban and rural areas.
Methodology used
Civic Education Program: The civic education component adopts a non-formal education approach, emphasizing learning by experience. This experiential learning model is designed to engage young people actively and make the learning process more interactive and impactful. The use of board and floor games is a key element of this program. These games are crafted to put youngsters at the center of the learning process, allowing them to explore civic concepts in a hands-on and engaging manner. Also the program is tailored to improve competencies in three key areas: knowledge, skills, and attitudes. This holistic approach ensures that participants not only learn about civic concepts but also develop the necessary skills and attitudes to apply this knowledge in real-life contexts.
Media Literacy Program: The media literacy program leverages digital tools like Padlet and Kahoot to enhance learning experiences. These tools make the learning process more interactive guide youngsters to counter disinformation. By using these platforms, the program facilitates interactive learning experiences, allowing participants to engage with media literacy topics in a dynamic and participatory way.
Digital Education Program: This program incorporates advanced tools such as VR (Virtual Reality), Padlet, and Mentimeter. The use of VR, in particular, provides an immersive learning experience that is both educational, engaging and effective. These tools are selected to ensure that digital education is not only informative but also interactive and engaging, catering to the diverse learning styles of young people.
Promotion of Youth Programs: Our association is Contact Point for EU youth program for Albania. Our aim is to promote these programs to youngsters and institutions and NGO-s. To appeal to young audiences and generate interest in EU youth programs, the project utilizes engaging techniques like video production and storytelling.
Media Literacy Program: The media literacy program leverages digital tools like Padlet and Kahoot to enhance learning experiences. These tools make the learning process more interactive guide youngsters to counter disinformation. By using these platforms, the program facilitates interactive learning experiences, allowing participants to engage with media literacy topics in a dynamic and participatory way.
Digital Education Program: This program incorporates advanced tools such as VR (Virtual Reality), Padlet, and Mentimeter. The use of VR, in particular, provides an immersive learning experience that is both educational, engaging and effective. These tools are selected to ensure that digital education is not only informative but also interactive and engaging, catering to the diverse learning styles of young people.
Promotion of Youth Programs: Our association is Contact Point for EU youth program for Albania. Our aim is to promote these programs to youngsters and institutions and NGO-s. To appeal to young audiences and generate interest in EU youth programs, the project utilizes engaging techniques like video production and storytelling.
How stakeholders are engaged
Local Level – Municipality of Tirana: The Municipality of Tirana played a pivotal role by providing a minivan that was repurposed into a mobile youth center. This contribution was crucial in creating a mobile and accessible platform for the project. The municipality's support highlights their commitment to innovative community development and youth engagement. Their role extended beyond providing the minivan, as they were also involved in discussions regarding the design and operational aspects of transforming the vehicle into a functional and appealing youth center.
Local Educational Institutions – High Schools: High schools showed a strong interest in the project and were willing to cooperate since they are implementing After School Program and activities we do in MYC are fitting perfectly. We cooperated with two High schools who helped in identifying the needs and interests of students and in scheduling the mobile youth center’s activities. This collaboration ensured that the project was tailored to the educational and developmental needs of the students.
Other local institutions and municipalities expressed interest in participating in the project Youth Agency of Tirana, Ten Youth Center in Tirana etc. Their involvement will be crucial for broader outreach and impact.
Engagement at the European level might involve aligning the project with EU initiatives and policies, particularly those related to youth, digital inclusion, and rural development. For the moment, we did not seek any support from EU funding programs, however EU funds can do this initiative sustainable.
Local Educational Institutions – High Schools: High schools showed a strong interest in the project and were willing to cooperate since they are implementing After School Program and activities we do in MYC are fitting perfectly. We cooperated with two High schools who helped in identifying the needs and interests of students and in scheduling the mobile youth center’s activities. This collaboration ensured that the project was tailored to the educational and developmental needs of the students.
Other local institutions and municipalities expressed interest in participating in the project Youth Agency of Tirana, Ten Youth Center in Tirana etc. Their involvement will be crucial for broader outreach and impact.
Engagement at the European level might involve aligning the project with EU initiatives and policies, particularly those related to youth, digital inclusion, and rural development. For the moment, we did not seek any support from EU funding programs, however EU funds can do this initiative sustainable.
Global challenges
Bridging the Digital Divide: A significant global challenge is the digital divide, where certain populations lack access to digital technologies and education. MYC project addresses this by bringing digital tools and education directly to young people in suburban and rural areas, thereby reducing the gap in digital access and literacy.
Inequality and Social Exclusion: Our project tackles issues of inequality and social exclusion, particularly relevant in areas with marginalized communities like the Roma. By focusing on inclusive education and offering resources to underserved communities in Albania, the project contributes to reducing disparities in access to education and technology.
Youth Engagement and Empowerment: Globally, engaging and empowering youth is crucial for sustainable development. Your project specifically targets young people, providing them with skills, knowledge, and platforms to voice their opinions and contribute to their communities, thus fostering active citizenship in my country.
Civic Participation and Democratic Engagement: In many parts of the world, there's a need to enhance civic participation among the youth. Your project, through its focus on civic education using non-formal, experiential learning methods, encourages young people to actively participate in democratic processes.
Educational Innovation: The global education sector often faces challenges in delivering engaging and effective learning experiences. Your project's innovative use of mobile platforms, digital tools, and interactive methodologies offers a model for making education more accessible, engaging, and relevant.
Inequality and Social Exclusion: Our project tackles issues of inequality and social exclusion, particularly relevant in areas with marginalized communities like the Roma. By focusing on inclusive education and offering resources to underserved communities in Albania, the project contributes to reducing disparities in access to education and technology.
Youth Engagement and Empowerment: Globally, engaging and empowering youth is crucial for sustainable development. Your project specifically targets young people, providing them with skills, knowledge, and platforms to voice their opinions and contribute to their communities, thus fostering active citizenship in my country.
Civic Participation and Democratic Engagement: In many parts of the world, there's a need to enhance civic participation among the youth. Your project, through its focus on civic education using non-formal, experiential learning methods, encourages young people to actively participate in democratic processes.
Educational Innovation: The global education sector often faces challenges in delivering engaging and effective learning experiences. Your project's innovative use of mobile platforms, digital tools, and interactive methodologies offers a model for making education more accessible, engaging, and relevant.
Learning transferred to other parties
The concept of converting a minivan into a mobile youth center is highly replicable. This model can be adopted in various geographical contexts, especially in areas with limited access to educational and technological resources. The methodology of using non-formal education in civic education, focusing on experiential learning and interactive games, can be easily replicated in different educational settings and adapted to various cultural contexts.
The use of Digital Tools like Padlet, Kahoot, VR, and Mentimeter in media literacy and digital education is easily transferable. These tools are versatile and can be used in various educational environments to enhance engagement and learning.
The use of engaging promotion techniques like storytelling and video production is universally applicable and can be adapted to promote the value of EU youth programs in different regions and cultures
The use of Digital Tools like Padlet, Kahoot, VR, and Mentimeter in media literacy and digital education is easily transferable. These tools are versatile and can be used in various educational environments to enhance engagement and learning.
The use of engaging promotion techniques like storytelling and video production is universally applicable and can be adapted to promote the value of EU youth programs in different regions and cultures
Keywords
Digitalisation
Media Literacy
Civic education
Inclusion
Information EU youth program
