In May 2023., a transformative training program called the Youth Workers Academy took place in Zagreb, Croatia, bringing together dedicated participants from Sweden, Croatia, and Germany. The Academy, organized as part of the project “New Learning Systems for Environment Protection,” aimed to strengthen NGOs working with young people in developing innovative learning methods and tools in the areas of environmental protection, waste management, and sustainable development. By fostering inclusive non-formal learning methods, the program sought to empower young people in local communities and on a broader European scale, with a special focus on including individuals with disabilities. The training, guided by a comprehensive manual and the newly developed “New Learning Systems for Green Youth Work” e-learning platform, proved to be a resounding success.
The Youth Workers Academy gathered nine passionate participants and a skilled trainer who led the training activities. The event served as an essential platform for knowledge sharing, collaborative learning, and skill development, with the overarching goal of equipping youth workers with the necessary tools to engage and educate young people about environmental issues.
The Youth Workers Academy was structured around a combination of theoretical sessions, practical workshops, and interactive discussions, ensuring an engaging and immersive learning experience. The participants explored a range of topics, including environmental sustainability, waste management practices, climate change mitigation, and the importance of biodiversity conservation. The training sessions also emphasized the value of non-formal learning methodologies, highlighting their effectiveness in fostering youth engagement and empowerment.
The New Learning Systems for Green Youth Work manual served as the cornerstone of the training, offering a comprehensive guide to implementing innovative learning approaches. Additionally, the newly developed e-learning platform provided a flexible and accessible resource for participants to further deepen their knowledge and skills after the training concluded.
The training program also emphasized the significance of collaboration and networking among participants. Through team-building activities and group projects, the youth workers developed strong connections and exchanged ideas, enabling them to create a supportive community of practice dedicated to environmental education.
The Youth Workers Academy had a profound impact on the participants, equipping them with valuable insights, practical skills, and a renewed sense of purpose in their work with young people. The newfound knowledge and innovative approaches acquired during the training will enable them to develop engaging environmental programs that resonate with diverse audiences, including those with disabilities.
Furthermore, the project’s emphasis on inclusive education is expected to have a lasting impact, as it lays the foundation for continued efforts to involve young people from all walks of life in environmental initiatives. By fostering collaboration between NGOs and youth workers, the project aims to create a network of environmental champions who can inspire and educate future generations.
The Youth Workers Academy marked a significant step forward in promoting environmental education and youth engagement in the field of sustainability. Through the development of new learning methods and tools, the training program has empowered youth workers from Sweden, Croatia, and Germany to become catalysts of change in their communities. By embracing inclusivity and non-formal learning approaches, the project has paved the way for a greener, more sustainable future, where young people of all abilities actively contribute to environmental protection and sustainable development.
