Neumarkt in der Steiermark – The Erasmus+ youth exchange took place from July 16th to 23rd in the picturesque Europaburg in Neumarkt. The project brought together 41 young participants from Austria and four partner countries, Croatia, Denmark, Spain and Slovenia, aged 16 to 26.
The main topic of the youth exchange was sustainability and the climate crisis. The participants took part in workshops in which they worked on the basics of climate change, discussed them and developed creative approaches to be more sustainable themselves and do something about climate change. In order to fully concentrate on themselves, their social environment, nature and the topic of the project, the participants gave up their cell phones and all digital devices for five days. In addition to the workshops, the meeting offered a range of activities, including an excursion to the Kneipp Park and Lind Castle Museum. Here, participants had the opportunity to explore nature and exchange ideas about the importance of climate protection in an inspiring environment. Another highlight of the week was the intercultural evening, where the young people presented their culture and home countries and exchanged ideas with the other participants. The youth exchange promoted intercultural exchange in Europe and offered young people the opportunity to experience Europe up close. Through projects like this, participants are able to make new friends, expand their intercultural skills and make a positive contribution to European cooperation. With every paneuropean friendship we strengthen the net of solidarity within the European Union.
It was definitely an amazing experience and the highlight of my summer, which also gave me a chance to reflect on myself. The digital detox really helped me make new friends without the stress of social media and the constant need to “hide” in my phone. Workshops and different activities helped me to be engaged and focused, while also giving me the opportunity to learn new things and focus on more important global issues, like the climate crisis and its impact on my future. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience, and I would love to do it again. (Vladyslav)
Overall, it was a fantastic experience. The venue was impressive, providing a great atmosphere throughout. The classes were engaging, well-structured, and kept things interesting without feeling overwhelming. What really stood out, however, was the outdoor activities – they were refreshing, energizing, and offered a perfect break from the indoor sessions, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. (Eduard)
Participating in this project was a highlight of this summer. During this week we focused on sustainability, which gave the opportunity to discuss various perspectives and insights on what being young in the climate crisis is. It was very fascinating to find out how sustainable practices are perceived differently across youth in EU countries, and to learn from one another. (Alina)
The program was a reminder of just how powerful non formal education can be. Engagement and participation are key to our society, and it was fulfilling to explore sustainable living in such an interactive way. (Vanessa)
The Erasmus+ European Youth Exchange “Another One bites the Dust. Being young in the Climate Crisis” was a great success and certainly left lasting impressions and memories for those who took part.
This project is co-funded by Erasmus+ and Land Steiermark.
Von der Europäischen Union finanziert. Die geäußerten Ansichten und Meinungen entsprechen jedoch ausschließlich denen der Autorin oder des Autors bzw. der Autorinnen oder Autoren und spiegeln nicht zwingend die der Europäischen Union oder der OeAD-GmbH wider. Weder die Europäische Union noch die OeAD-GmbH können dafür verantwortlich gemacht werden.