December 8 – National Youth Day: Time for Action and Change!
Today, we celebrate National Youth Day in Albania, a moment to honor the immense potential of Albanian youth and reflect on the challenges they face in building a brighter future. The Center for Comparative and International Studies (CCIS) takes pride in placing youth at the heart of its mission.
Our youth-focused projects include: #EYDR (Youth Participation in Digital Democracy): Advancing digital skills and rights for a more inclusive democracy. U2SID Project and DigitCRESHE: Harnessing innovation and digital transformation for youth inclusion in creative and academic sectors. EDUFAIR & CORE-ED Academy: Enhancing digital education and youth activism. YOM: Promoting youth engagement in public and political life. Projects focused on social inclusion, including our partnerships with ANAD-SHKSHNJND, empowering youth with different abilities and fostering their employment.
These initiatives, supported by the European Union under the ERASMUS+ program, aim to empower Albanian youth and give them the tools to become key actors in society.
Challenges and Realities:
The 2024 Youth Survey highlights pressing issues:
- Low-quality education.
- A “migration rush,” viewed as the primary option for employment and the future.
- Limited engagement in local politics due to disillusionment and labor market constraints.
The Way Forward:
Investing in quality education and practical skills to address the “Fourth Industrial Revolution” is crucial. Equally important is fostering youth participation in politics and governance, essential pillars of democracy.
At CCIS, we remain committed to developing sustainable policies and creating collaborative spaces where youth are at the center. Together, we can build a fairer, more inclusive, and prosperous Albania!
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