From April 19 through 20, the iRi team organized an initiative on learning and exchange of ideas called “Spring School for Rural Youth”. The event was attended by 50 young people from 27 rural communities, representing 11 districts of Moldova. These young people shared their experience gained during 4 years of the YEP program (Youth Empowerment Program in Rural Areas), discussing good practices used by initiative groups in working with young people at the community level. Young people also shared ideas on challenges and barriers identified over the years.
A key part of the Spring School was dedicated to planning and organization, two crucial aspects of a successful initiative group. Young people were encouraged to develop innovative action plans for their communities and were rewarded for their creativity and commitment.
“Planning the activities of the initiative group ensures the progress and evaluation of the group. You can keep a close eye on how well the action plan is being carried out and where adjustments are needed.” – Tatiana Tronciu, the South region facilitator, town of Cahul.
On the second day of the event, the sustainability of initiative groups, the process of transferring knowledge and experience to new members, recruitment and delegation were discussed. One of the key messages conveyed to young people was that to make an initiative group sustainable, four essential steps are needed: getting the group prepared, developing an action plan, implementing the plan and evaluating it, followed by starting the process again from the beginning.
“Organizing non-formal activities and determining common interests are the strengths that make motivation in an initiative group persist. When we get united to explore our aspirations together, we create a favorable environment for growth and change.” – Madalina Rusu, an initiative group member, village of Boscana, Criuleni district.
Overall, the Spring School was a valuable experience, showing that support and development of youth programs are fundamental to the progress and sustainable development of their communities.
“Through the active involvement of young people and proper investments in their initiatives, we can build a brighter and more promising future for everyone. We hope that during these two days, these 50 young people were able to share enough of their experience of civil engagement in community issues, take up new ideas and develop their skills in a collective effort of learning and improvement with the aim of further contributing to the development of their communities.” – Lilia Sula, Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi).
The activity is part of the Youth Empowerment Project of the Republic of Moldova (YEP) implemented by iRi in partnership with GLCAP, Ohio, USA, with the support of the US Department of State.