The Programme
Screen addiction isolates young people from real-world interactions, contributing to social exclusion and hindering their ability to form meaningful relationships offline and participate in their communities. Therefore, this project aims to address these challenges through the use of non-formal activities that help young people use digital devices safely and promote inclusive environments.
Accordingly, the project is aligned with the EU’s youth strategy, in particular in addressing key issues such as youth mental health, digital competences and social inclusion. Emphasis will be placed on the objective of the EU Youth Dialogue “Mental health and well-being”, which underlines the need for interventions that promote mental health, well-being and healthy digital habits, while addressing the negative impact of technology on young people’s lives.
In addition, YG8 stresses the importance of providing young people with the skills needed for quality education and learning, which include critical evaluation of digital content and online risk management as part of the development of digital literacy.
In addition, the project will contribute to YG9, which supports equal access to spaces and participation opportunities, benefiting not only the direct participants but also a wider network of young people.
In particular, the project will pursue the following objectives:
- Using non-formal educational activities to encourage young people to share their experiences, to strengthen their personal and social skills (in particular critical thinking and the ability to evaluate and work with information) and to foster resilience and active participation in social life
- Organising focus groups with young people and experts to explore how the digital age and screen use affect young people’s lives, leading to social exclusion, and to identify effective strategies to promote young people’s active participation in democratic life
- Strengthening the capacities of young people aged 13-30, in line with the 5th Youth Objective, “Mental health and well-being”, with a focus on promoting the well-being of young people
- Developing innovative ways for young people to participate, creating a booklet providing practical guidance on safe and responsible digital participation, helping young people to face challenges and make informed choices online
- Creating and sharing accessible information on youth participation to empower young people to stay active, contribute actively and face the challenges of the digital world. The resources developed will be distributed through European youth networks, such as SALTO, to ensure sustainability and long-term impact
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 Foundation for the Management of European Lifelong Learning Programmes. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. [Project Number: KA154-YOU-D1DABFD4]
