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Description
The aim of the project is to improve the quality of life of residents of all ages by changes in the socio-economic development and in the sphere of local public administration via the following activities: promoting and supporting entrepreneurship; creation a new offer of educational activities; creating attractive, habitable and environmentally friendly city; social activation of residents and increasing their involvement in the city''s affairs; using modern technologies to improve the city''s functioning processes and facilitate contact with residents; increasing competence and responsibility of local government administration and increase of trust residents to local authorities as effective local management institutions.
The effect of the project will be a change in the quality of functioning of the city''s inhabitants Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski as a result of the benefits from the implementation of the following projects project: creating conditions for the development of entrepreneurship thanks to the development and implementation of the Ostrowiec Enterprise Support Program; studies a wide range of modern educational activities for children and teenagers as well as training in the field of building entrepreneurial attitudes among youth and adults (thanks creating the Ostrowiecki Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurship); increase the number facilities and places in public space adapted to the needs of people disabled people; increasing ecological awareness among hybrids thanks development and implementation of the Ecological Education Program; implementation of a loyalty card; creation of the Youth City Council; increase the percentage of inhabitants satisfied with the work of the City Hall in the field of communication standards with the locals; creating a resident portal; introduction of a new mechanism social participation and the use of new channels of communication with the local community.
Summary of project results
The „Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski-City ReNEWal” project was created with the intention of addressing several key social, economic, and infrastructural problems and challenges that have affected Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski for years. With support from the Norwegian Financial Mechanism 2014-2021 and the EEA Financial Mechanism 2014-2021, the project has focused on comprehensive local development to improve residents'' quality of life and enhance the city’s appeal for future generations. The issues the „Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski-City ReNEWal” project aimed to address include:
Economic Stagnation and the Need for Job Growth: In the city, the need for economic development through attracting investments and supporting local businesses was recognized. One of the main goals of the project was to increase the number of jobs and support entrepreneurship, particularly in new technology sectors. A plan was developed to promote the city as an investor-friendly location and provide support for businesses intending to expand in Ostrowiec. Initiatives such as the Young Entrepreneur Academy, Ostrowiec Education and Business Integrator, and dedicated coworking spaces were introduced to encourage young people to engage more actively in the city’s economic life.
Insufficient Youth and Community Engagement in City Life: The project aimed to increase young residents'' engagement by creating spaces for collaboration and skills development. The Education and Business Integrator provides tools and creative learning spaces, such as robotics labs, 3D printers, and a virtual reality zone. A range of social programs was also developed, including the Contemporary Junior Academy, Youth City Council Academy, Methodology and Standards for Conducting Public Consultations, and the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Civic Budget, encouraging youth to gain civic competencies and prepare for future professional and social involvement. These initiatives aim to prevent young people from leaving Ostrowiec and help them find their place in the city.
Environmental Threats and Lack of Ecological Awareness: A low level of ecological awareness and limited environmental protection activities were among the city''s challenges. The project included initiatives to increase environmental education, such as the Environmental Education Program until 2030. An air quality monitoring system was purchased, and a plan for cycling infrastructure was introduced to reduce exhaust emissions and promote sustainable transportation. Through these actions, the project aimed to build a more conscious society that understands the need to care for the natural environment.
Issues with Public Service Quality and Low Trust in Local Administration: One of the project’s goals was to improve the quality of public services and professionalize city officials. Training sessions were organized for local government employees to enhance their competencies and align work standards with residents’ expectations. By improving service quality and understanding residents'' needs, the project sought to build greater trust in the city office and its staff.
Low Accessibility for People with Disabilities: The project also included initiatives aimed at removing architectural barriers, which were essential for social inclusion. Numerous public spaces, including municipal buildings and playgrounds, were modernized to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Improving access to these spaces has enhanced the quality of life for individuals with limited mobility.
Lack of Cohesion and Coordination in City Management: The project adopted an integrated approach to the development of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Through the Local and Institutional Development Plan, actions were more coordinated, allowing strategies to be implemented across multiple levels—from education and entrepreneurship to infrastructure and environment.
Thus, the „Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski-City ReNEWal” project addressed challenges across many areas, creating a comprehensive plan to improve residents'' quality of life and attract new investments and initiatives. The scope of activities and involvement of various local institutions demonstrate that this project is deeply rooted in community needs, with the potential to influence the long-term development of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.
The „Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski-City ReNEWal” project implemented a wide range of initiatives aimed at addressing the social, economic, educational, and environmental needs of the city. The solutions introduced within this project have yielded tangible results, enhancing various aspects of life for the local community. Below is a description of the activities and outcomes achieved.
Ostrowiec Education and Business Integrator: The project created a modern educational and entrepreneurial space aimed at developing talents among young people and adults and supporting their entrepreneurial activities. The Integrator includes various zones, such as robotics, 3D printing, e-sports, virtual reality, and coworking spaces, providing young people and budding entrepreneurs with access to modern technologies and professional support.
Young Entrepreneur Academy: An educational program was implemented for primary and secondary school students, where young people gained skills in entrepreneurship, business plan development, and financial management. The program was practical and interactive, helping participants understand key aspects of running a business.
Youth City Council Academy: This initiative aimed to increase youth engagement in the social life of the city. Workshops and civic competence training enabled young people to actively participate in decision-making processes, while intergenerational debates promoted the exchange of experiences across generations.
Entrepreneurship Support Program: Through the Ostrowiec Resident Card (OKM), city residents gained access to special discounts and offers from local businesses. The program also served as an incentive for companies to expand their operations in Ostrowiec.
Accessibility Infrastructure for People with Disabilities: The project included initiatives to increase the accessibility of urban spaces for people with limited mobility. The city installed inclusive play equipment in playgrounds and adapted sidewalks and crosswalks, creating a more inclusive public space.
Resident Portal and Service Digitization: A digital platform was launched, providing residents access to various services, such as the Civic Budget, Ostrowiec Resident Card, reporting city issues, and participating in public consultations. This solution strengthened communication between residents and city hall, facilitating easier administrative processes.
City Monograph and Ostrowiec Legends: The "Miasta OdNowa" project produced a monograph of Ostrowiec, familiarizing residents with the city''s history and cultural heritage. A book titled Fairy Tales and Legends of Old Ostrowiec was also published to strengthen local identity and interest in the city''s past. A comic book inspired by cooperation with the Norwegian city of Sogndal was created for younger readers.
Support Program for Local Cultural Initiatives: The organization of festivals, workshops, and meetings with local leaders and representatives from the NGO sector strengthened community bonds and increased resident involvement in city life. These events aimed to increase the number of cultural initiatives and support the development of local talents.
Air Quality Monitoring: A modern air quality monitoring device was installed in the city as part of the project, with data from this system available to residents online. This initiative raises ecological awareness and allows real-time monitoring of environmental quality.
Environmental Education Program: An environmental education program was introduced, including lesson plans for schools, schedules for educational activities, and teaching tools to educate residents on sustainable development. These actions contribute to building an ecologically aware community engaged in environmental protection.
Cycling Plan for Ostrowiec: This plan supports the development of cycling infrastructure in the city, promoting alternative modes of transport and reducing air pollution. The development of bike paths and related infrastructure supports the sustainable growth of Ostrowiec and improves residents'' health.
Training for Local Government Administration: The project invested in training for city hall employees, covering areas such as customer service, stress management, communication, and the professionalization of public services. The goal was to improve the quality and efficiency of services provided by local administration.
Strategic and Organizational Management: Organizational and strategic changes were implemented within the city hall structure to enhance its capacity to carry out long-term development plans. These actions aimed to improve management efficiency and communication between departments, contributing to more effective service for residents.
Collaboration with the Norwegian City of Sogndal: The project strengthened cooperation with the Norwegian city of Sogndal, allowing for the exchange of experience and know-how in city management, civic engagement, and public space design. This collaboration aimed to foster bilateral relations, strengthen connections, and exchange best practices in education, ecology, and social development.
As part of the „Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski-City ReNEWal” project, a range of outcomes was achieved that directly impacted end beneficiaries. The project was designed to address the needs of specific social groups, institutions, and individuals from various backgrounds, strengthening their engagement in the city’s development. Below is an overview of the project’s end stakeholders and the outcomes achieved:
Outcomes for Residents: The project provided benefits through improved urban spaces and modern public services. Residents gained access to the Resident Portal, enabling them to report city issues, which improved communication with city hall and enhanced the quality of resident services. Infrastructure improvements, such as the modernization of playgrounds and public facilities, contributed to daily convenience and increased the accessibility of public spaces.
Impact on Quality of Life: Through sustainable development projects, including air quality monitoring and environmental education programs, residents enjoyed better environmental conditions, positively affecting their health and comfort of life.
Access to Modern Educational Tools: By establishing the Ostrowiec Education and Business Integrator, Ostrowiec’s youth gained access to technologies such as robotics, 3D printing, VR zones, and programming. This provides young people with opportunities to develop future-oriented skills, strengthening their position in the job market and increasing engagement in innovative projects.
Promotion of Entrepreneurship: Programs like the Young Entrepreneur Academy helped young people acquire practical business and planning skills. Participants learned how to create business plans and implement their entrepreneurial ideas, potentially leading to the establishment of new businesses by program graduates in the future.
Access to Public Infrastructure: Efforts to improve accessibility allowed people with disabilities to participate more fully in the city’s social life. Modernized playgrounds and adapted pedestrian crossings, as well as inclusive playground equipment, have made Ostrowiec a more open and welcoming place for all residents.
Support for Business Development: The project provided support for local businesses through the Ostrowiec Resident Card (OKM), which promoted their services and attracted customers. With the support of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Employment Activation and modern coworking spaces, entrepreneurs received a place to grow their businesses and collaborate with others, strengthening the local job market.
New Educational Programs: Ostrowiec’s educational institutions, including schools and training centers, benefited from the educational tools provided by the program. Initiatives like the Environmental Education Program increased student awareness of sustainable development. Teachers and students gained access to modern educational resources, helping them develop key competencies and pro-environmental attitudes.
Improvement in Educational Offerings: Through the Ostrowiec Education and Business Integrator and educational programs, schools have the opportunity to enrich their offerings. Workshops and classes in robotics and programming contribute to making education more attractive and preparing young people for the future job market.
Professionalization of Public Services: City hall employees underwent training in customer service, which improved their skills and enhanced the quality of public services. Consequently, Ostrowiec residents can rely on more professional and efficient service, which has increased trust in the local administration and strengthened relationships between city hall and residents.
Cooperation with Sogndal and Other Partners: Collaboration with partners, including the Norwegian city of Sogndal, allowed for the exchange of experiences and knowledge on innovative city management and education solutions. Social and educational institutions gained access to international best practices, enabling them to develop programs that meet the needs of Ostrowiec residents.
The „Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski-City ReNEWal” project had a tangible impact on various social groups and institutions, providing them with concrete benefits and lasting results. Each beneficiary group, from children to entrepreneurs and people with disabilities, experienced changes that improved quality of life, increased development opportunities, and strengthened their sense of belonging to the local community. Thanks to the wide range of implemented initiatives, Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski has gained new development perspectives, and its residents can look to the future with optimism, anticipating further improvements and the continuation of positive changes within the framework of the city’s sustainable development.
Summary of bilateral results
The project laid the foundation for bilateral cooperation with the city of Sogndal. Joint efforts focused on education, local development, environmental protection, and community engagement. Through this partnership, the cities were able to exchange best practices and experiences, contributing to mutual growth and broadening the horizons.Mutual Exchange of Experience in Management and Education: Joint educational projects, such as workshops and youth exchange programs, aimed to inspire young people to act in support of their local communities and enhance their civic skills. The workshops allowed participants to understand the importance of sustainable development, ecology, and active involvement in public life.Development of Administrative and Social Skills: Norwegian and Polish officials and representatives from local organizations, had the opportunity to participate in an exchange of experiences in urban space management, planning, and investment handling. Increased Project Visibility and International Interest: Joint media efforts and publications raised awareness of the project not only at the local level but also internationally. Development of New Initiatives Based on Cooperation: The partnership established a foundation for continued joint efforts after the project’s conclusion, including initiatives related to sustainable development and education. Future plans include joint educational projects, expanding exchange programs, and exploring new, innovative solutions to support local communities in both cities.This cooperation was also an integration of actions that enriched the local communities and administrations on both sides. Through experience sharing and joint initiatives, the cities can continue to benefit from this partnership, furthering efforts toward sustainable development and increasing engagement in social and environmental issues.