CCIS Joins NECE Prep-Lab in Tirana!

On June 18-19, 2024, CCIS had the privilege of participating in the Networking European Civic Education (NECE) festival prep-lab in Tirana. Together with local stakeholders and partners, we delved into essential topics such as #civiceducation, #youthengagement, #creativeindustries, and the unique challenges faced in the #WesternBalkans.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussions:

1. Civic Education:*We emphasized the importance of cross-border and cross-sector collaboration to enhance civic education and democratic participation.

2. Empowering Youth: We explored the complexities of engaging young people in cultural and innovative projects, highlighting issues like low participation rates, high emigration, and regional mobility challenges. Stronger links between formal and informal education, local belonging, and addressing distrust in institutions were key points.

3. Policy and Reform: New policies and reforms are crucial to support youth programs and artistic endeavors. We called for critical self-reflection, respectful disagreement, and cross-sector collaboration to tackle shared challenges in the creative industries.

4. Environmental Challenges: Significant issues like #wastemanagement, #recycling, and #deforestation require systematic work and collaboration. Creating incentives and readiness to invest in environmental protection are essential steps forward.

5. Digital and Media Literacy: In our post-truth era, #medialiteracy should be integrated into education as a cross-cutting topic. Shared #emotionalintelligence can enhance engagement and interest.

6. Brain Drain: High emigration rates, especially among the educated, highlight the need for initiatives to empower teachers, support the Roma community, integrate inclusiveness in education, and foster return migration.

The exchange of ideas and experiences at the Lab underscored our shared challenges and the pressing need for innovative, collaborative solutions.

The event was a great opportunity for CCIS to share and disseminate the work done with the implementation of our currently EU-funded projects like U2SID Project, #Digitcreshe, #digitcreshe #EYDR and Youth Observer Model- YO- Model #ErasmusPlus

The #NECEFestival, led by the Civic Innovation Hub in partnership with #SCIDEV, provides a platform for visionary thinkers to present bold ideas for the future.

One of NECE’s most exciting formats is its annual #festival, gathering actors from across Europe and beyond. This year, from November 14-17, the festival will focus on the topic of #BORDERS and will take place in the vibrant city of #Tirana, Albania.

Preparations are in full swing!

Stay tuned for more updates and join us in shaping the future!