EN.O Greece proudly participated in the Erasmus+ Training Course “Building Bridges: Effective Strategies for Youth Inclusion”, which took place in Agrigento, Italy, from 19 to 28 November 2024. The project was organized by EURO-MED EVE Italy and brought together youth workers and representatives from nine European countries to explore innovative approaches to youth inclusion.
The training course was designed to empower youth workers with effective methods and strategies for fostering inclusion among young people. Participants explored proven educational approaches, exchanged experiences, and learned how to engage diverse youth groups in meaningful and sustainable ways.
The project focused on:
• Developing innovative inclusion strategies for youth work;
• Enhancing international cooperation and the exchange of good practices;
• Promoting long-term youth engagement through supportive and inclusive environments.
Throughout the training, participants took part in a variety of non-formal education activities, including team-building exercises, role-playing, simulations, group work, peer-to-peer learning, discussions, and presentations. These methods provided practical tools that youth workers can apply directly in their local communities.
One of the most meaningful moments of the training was the opportunity to put these methods into practice through a visit to La Mano di Francesco, a social cooperative based in Favara, Sicily, which provides social assistance, reception services, and socio-educational support, including for unaccompanied minor refugees.
During the visit, participants designed and implemented team-building and non-formal education activities together with the young residents of the centre. This experience highlighted an essential aspect of youth work: inclusion cannot remain a theoretical concept. To truly understand inclusion, we must actively create spaces where people can meet, interact, learn from one another, and build mutual trust and understanding.
The activities proved to be a deeply moving experience for both the youth workers and the young people involved. Through cooperation, communication, and shared experiences, barriers were broken down and meaningful connections were created. The encounter demonstrated how non-formal education can serve as a powerful tool for promoting participation, empathy, and social inclusion.
The international dimension of the project also created valuable opportunities for intercultural dialogue and networking among organizations from Italy, Greece, Romania, Malta, Spain, Bulgaria, Hungary, Croatia, and Türkiye.
Participation in this training strengthened the capacity of EN.O Greece’s youth workers to design and implement more inclusive activities and initiatives for young people. The knowledge, practical experience, and insights gained throughout the project will contribute to improving local youth work practices and ensuring that young people from diverse backgrounds have equal opportunities to participate, contribute, and thrive.
By taking part in international learning experiences such as this one, EN.O Greece continues to support the values of inclusion, active citizenship, intercultural understanding, and lifelong learning.
EN.O Greece would like to thank EURO-MED EVE Italy, La Mano di Francesco, all partner organizations, and the Erasmus+ Programme for making this valuable learning experience possible.
