Youth Exchange | 12–16 May 2025 | Erasmus+ Project: 2024-1-DE04-KA154-YOU-000238751
From May 12 to 16, 2025, young people from across Europe came together to take part in the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange “Embrace Technology, Engage as an Active Citizen.” Held under project number 2024-1-DE04-KA154-YOU-000238751, the five-day event empowered youth to explore the evolving role of technology in democratic participation and digital citizenship. Participants engaged in a dynamic program filled with expert sessions, interactive workshops, cultural exchange, and collaborative creation.
Day 1 – May 12, 2025: Setting the Stage
The event opened with a warm welcome and an official introduction to the week’s agenda. Participants co-created group rules and shared expectations and concerns through the “Expectation & Fear Tree” activity. Icebreakers and group dynamic games helped establish trust, while the Journey Simulation Game allowed participants to reflect on identity and origin.
The afternoon featured a thematic brainstorming session focused on the question: “How can we become more active digital citizens?” Ideas were creatively shared in groups, laying the foundation for the week’s deeper explorations. The session concluded with the “Erasmus Mom – Our Home in Europe” presentation, which introduced the Erasmus+ program and Youthpass competencies. Alumni shared personal stories, inspiring the group with real-life experiences.
The evening wrapped up with an NGO Fair and Icebreaking Night, where organizations presented their missions and participants engaged in informal networking and games.
Day 2 – May 13, 2025: Media Literacy & Critical Thinking
The day began with an engaging expert session titled “The Impact of Media Consumption Habits on Our Perception of Reality.” Participants explored how digital content influences public opinion and personal belief systems. The session emphasized media literacy and the development of critical thinking.
This was followed by small-group discussions on evaluating the reliability of online sources. Youth reflected on their media habits and learned to question digital content critically.
In a hands-on workshop, participants honed their skills in fact-checking and identifying fake news, using real-life examples and digital tools. Building on this knowledge, they collaborated to create a Digital Media Literacy Guide for their peers, reinforcing teamwork and practical application.
The evening ended with a lively Cultural Night hosted by Türkiye and Hungary, showcasing traditional food, music, and dance, fostering intercultural understanding and friendships.
Day 3 – May 14, 2025: Digital Rights & Human Rights Advocacy
The third day focused on human rights in the digital age, starting with an expert presentation highlighting the link between digital tools and individual freedoms. An interactive Q&A encouraged deeper reflection on digital responsibilities.
In a follow-up discussion, participants examined how digital platforms can promote and defend human rights. They explored advocacy strategies before preparing for a group debate on the relevance of digital citizenship. This spirited activity sharpened communication and critical thinking skills.
Later, nine participant groups launched their own digital human rights campaigns, addressing issues such as freedom of expression, equality, and privacy. Using platforms like social media and video tools, they created campaigns that brought together creativity and civic engagement.
The evening concluded with a Cultural Night featuring Germany and Romania, celebrating diversity through national cuisine, music, and traditional dance.
Day 4 – May 15, 2025: From Local Realities to Global Voices
The day opened with an energizing session titled “What Was the Situation in My Country?” Participants researched and presented data on democratic participation and digital literacy in their home countries, drawing cause-and-effect links and sharing local insights.
In country-based teams, they developed action plans to promote digital citizenship in their communities, focusing on practical strategies and expected outcomes.
A two-part Storytelling Workshop explored the power of digital storytelling in raising awareness of human rights issues. Working in small groups, participants created their own stories—blending advocacy, creativity, and media skills. These were later presented and prepared for publication on the project’s social media channels.
To end the day, participants enjoyed an intercultural karaoke night, singing songs in various native languages and reinforcing the bonds formed throughout the week.
Day 5 – May 16, 2025: Moving Forward Together
The final day centered on dissemination and sustainability planning. Participants reflected on how they would implement their new knowledge and skills in daily life, within their communities, and in their organizations.
In preparation for an upcoming Digital Youth Meeting, participants reviewed their learning journey and worked in groups to prepare presentations and draft a collective digital citizenship guide.
The event concluded with a Final Evaluation session and YouthPass Ceremony. Participants shared their takeaways, completed an online survey, and received their YouthPass certificates in a celebratory closing session that marked the end of an inspiring, transformative experience.
Conclusion
“Embrace Technology, Engage as an Active Citizen” was more than a youth exchange; it was a powerful experience in learning, reflection, and action. Participants left the project not only with stronger digital and civic competencies but also with new friendships, broader perspectives, and a shared commitment to shaping a more inclusive, informed, and active digital society.
