The Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi) officially launched the ERYM project (Empowering Rural Youth in Moldova) at a dedicated launch event.
ERYM is an iRi initiative aimed at creating new opportunities for rural youth, with a strong focus on developing their talents and pursuing their passions in areas of personal interest. To this end, the project will establish youth-friendly spaces in three rural communities in the Republic of Moldova, supporting young people in developing skills and competencies and spending their free time in meaningful ways. At the same time, young people will be encouraged to become actively involved in community life, develop empathy, and prepare for the next stages of their lives.
The event brought together approximately 30 participants, including young people, mentors, representatives of local and central public authorities, youth workers, and project partners. It provided an opportunity to discuss young people’s needs and aspirations, opportunities for personal development, and the role of communities in supporting them
“These spaces will offer young people opportunities for non-formal learning, deeper exploration of their interests and hobbies, skills development, and support in turning their own ideas and initiatives into reality.” – Lilia Sula, ERYM project coordinator.
“For the past several years, iRi’s mission has been to contribute to improving the lives of young people in rural areas. Through this project, we are continuing that mission. We want to provide young people with equal opportunities and meaningful pathways to develop into successful citizens.” – Tatiana Cosuleanu, executive director of iRi.
Representatives of the National Youth Agency (ANT) and district youth centres also attended the event. Discussions focused on the importance of young people’s participation in community life and the need for spaces where their voices can be heard.
“We work with both young people and adults to challenge stereotypes and change the perception that young people’s opinions matter less. Youth centres play an important role in keeping young people active and encouraging them to participate in community life.” – Alexandru Petrov, director of the National Youth Agency (ANT).
The involvement of local authorities is essential to ensuring that these opportunities respond to young people’s needs and remain sustainable in the long term. The LPA of Valeni, Cahul district, expressed its support for the initiative, including through financial and human resources.
“We are pleased that Valeni is part of this project, and we support young people’s initiatives. We aim to allocate resources from the local budget to develop the youth sector and engage as many young people as possible in activities that are relevant to our community.” – Silvia Stirbet, mayor of Valeni.
Participants were also welcomed by Grigore Rinja, President of the National Youth Council of Moldova (CNTM), who reiterated:
“We must give young people confidence and real opportunities to get involved. Public authorities must invest in the youth sector and allocate financial resources in local budgets for initiatives and activities dedicated to young people. Their participation must not remain merely a statement of intent, it must be backed by concrete action”.
Three Youth Labs and One Youth Hub for Young People
Many elements of the ERYM programme draw on the experience of Fryshuset in Sweden. The programme will be implemented in three rural communities: Pelinia village, Drochia District; Ciuciuleni village, Hincesti District; and Valeni village, Cahul District. Activities will take place through three local Youth Labs, renovated and equipped by the project in partnership with local public authorities, with additional support from a Youth Hub in Chisinau.
“Our aim is to pilot new Youth Lab models based on the realities and needs of local communities. We want these spaces to become vibrant centres for pupils and young people, jointly managed in partnership with schools and mayoralties.” – Ruslan Stanga, iRi founder and public policy specialist.
During the event, young participants took part in a workshop where they shared their views on the situation of young people both nationally and in their own communities. They proposed solutions, identified priorities, and offered practical recommendations for the project’s implementation.
Local Partnerships for Sustainable Opportunities
An important moment of the event was the signing of partnership memoranda with representatives of local public authorities and educational institutions from the three communities. These partnerships lay the groundwork for long-term cooperation in developing activities and opportunities for young people.
Over the next two years, ERYM will help create a supportive environment where young people in rural Moldova can explore their interests and passions, acquire skills essential for adult life, and gain the confidence to turn their ideas into successful initiatives.
“We want young people to develop their talents, learn new things, and become confident, responsible citizens who actively contribute to their communities. And if they choose to leave their villages, we hope they will maintain their connection to the places where they started out and retain the desire to contribute to their communities’ development.” – Lilia Sula, ERYM project coordinator.
In addition to the three partner communities, the project will engage other localities to share and expand the good practices developed through the initiative. Planned activities include exchange visits, workshops, various training sessions, mini-grants, and plenty of opportunities for fun and positive experiences.
The launch of the programme marks the beginning of a journey built together with young people, mentors, local authorities, and partners to foster communities where young people have the space to grow, opportunities to thrive, and an active role in shaping their own futures.
A period of new experiences, fresh ideas, and exciting discoveries lies ahead for young people in the beneficiary communities.
ERYM project is implemented by the Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi) and financed by Sweden via Fryshuset.