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Description
Young people in rural areas are tempted to leave their place of birth, being unsure of their future, but also because they can’t identify opportunities they can turn to advantage in their community for a better life. This is confirmed by the increase of population ageing, data from National Statistics Institute indicating a rate of 121,3 old people to 100 young people under 15 years old, but also by the early school leaving rate which is over 22.4% in the South-East of Romania, according to Eurostat data (young people between 18-24 that abandoned education/professional training). Thus, the indicators of involvement and education for the future citizens of Dobrogea region are alarming. The project aims at supporting 225 young people in rural areas from Dobrogea, by forming and mobilizing youth groups, helping them identifiy succesful models in their areas, developing projects and initiatives for implementing community solutions, activities that lead to a harmonious development of present and future generations. The dissemination activities for young PR’s and the Community Festival help in changing the perspective of young people, but also of other community members, regarding their involvement and the resoursces they have and can use for their own community. Also, the project „Promoting Youth Involvement in change (PROMIT)” supports local authorities that don’t have the expertise in youth work and also the educational system, which already has a tight curriculum and a rigid system. Thus, with the help and expertise of 5 partner NGOs: Mare Nostrum, CREATIVEPlus, Together for the Future Association, The Roumanian National Committee for the Rights of the Child Constanta and ADAPTO, the aim is to increase youth capacity for active involvement in producing community changes.
Summary of project results
Young people in rural areas often face limited opportunities and low quality of life, leading to a strong desire to leave their communities. This trend, coupled with broader societal uncertainties—technological, economic, and political—prevents them from recognizing and utilizing local opportunities. Romania faces significant emigration, with young people being the largest demographic leaving the country, which has contributed to a demographic aging process (121.3 elderly per 100 youth under 15). Rural areas are particularly vulnerable, with high rates of early school leaving, further exacerbating these challenges.
The project worked with youth from 15 rural communities, focusing on advocacy and community problem-solving. In the initial phase, groups of young people were formed in each community, and training sessions were conducted to develop their skills in identifying local challenges and implementing actionable solutions.
Throughout the project, the youth implemented solutions such as building recreational spaces, installing bicycle racks, and organizing a youth festival. To keep them motivated, the project facilitated meetings with successful individuals from their communities, who shared their experiences and underscored the importance of civic engagement. Additionally, the youth participated in public relations workshops to enhance their ability to promote their initiatives through social media and local networks.
The project demonstrated the potential of young people in rural areas to act as catalysts for positive change when provided with the right tools and opportunities. It tackled critical issues such as community disengagement, lack of local opportunities, and organizational inefficiencies, delivering tangible improvements in infrastructure, youth empowerment, and community cohesion.