Unity through Diversity

Project facts

Project promoter:
Municipality Prakovce(SK)
Project Number:
SK-LOCALDEV-0003
Status:
Completed
Final project cost:
€853,665
Donor Project Partners:
Newschool AS(NO)
Other Project Partners
Municipality of Mnisek nad Hnilcom(SK)
Secondary Vocational School of Technology and Science Prakovce(SK)

Description

The aim of the proposed project is to provide children and young people with the same opportunity for their social integration into society by focusing on the development of knowledge and talent using extracurricular educational, artistic and sports activities. Within the project, 5 basic activities are planned:


Activity 1: Development of physical and mental abilities.

Activity 2: Increasing employment prospects: the aim of the activity is to support the outlook and competences of children and young people in the region through interesting workshops, excursions and participation in fairs. 

Activity 3: Improving the infrastructure for working with youth at the community level.

Activity 4: Don''t trick me, I have my own opinion. 

Activity 5: I want to study. The aim of the activity is to increase the interest of children and young people in active participation in the educational process, which will result in improved prospects for finding an employment.

The proposed project will create new forms of support for access of children and young people from vulnerable environment to a wide range of extracurricular activities and activities aimed at their future profession. regardless of their social status. The efforts of the Applicant to work with project partners will highlight examples of good quality partnerships, will help to develop the competences of those responsible for work with youth and support the emergence of a society that understands the benefits and impact of working with children and young people. It is expected that the experience gained will be applicable not only at the regional but also at the national level.
 

Summary of project results

The key challenges addressed by the project included aligning activities with the partner''s timeline and ensuring the partner became familiar with both the project objectives and the applicant''s organizational culture. Additionally, the project focused on developing participants'' teamwork skills, encouraging the sharing of experiences, and introducing new approaches to address challenges in youth engagement.

The project implemented a variety of activities and delivered significant outputs aimed at supporting the development, inclusion, and education of children and youth in less-developed regions.

The first key area focused on physical and mental health, where the applicant and project partners introduced new opportunities for leisure activities through sports and cultural events. These activities not only helped reduce isolation among children and youth from peripheral areas but also provided a space for improving physical fitness and discovering new talents. Outputs included regular sports tournaments, cultural workshops such as "Príbeh vody," "Živá učebňa," "Naučím sa viac," "Zažime pocity víťazov," and sports competitions like Pohár v turnaji in volleyball and football, as well as the Športová akadémia.

The second activity area aimed at improving employment prospects. Participants actively engaged in scientific fairs, exhibitions, and visits to science centers in Nitra, Bratislava, and Levice. Additionally, they attended the workshop "Kúzelná fyzika," which provided opportunities to build skills and knowledge relevant to future employability.

Another major achievement was the establishment of a new Multifunctional Center, which introduced extended services for children and youth. The center operates for a minimum of 8 hours per week longer than comparable facilities, such as the local library, providing a centralized and attractive space for extracurricular activities. Its structured operating hours ensured consistent support: Monday-Tuesday (13:00–19:00), Wednesday (13:00–20:00), Thursday (13:00–19:00), Friday (12:00–19:00), and weekends as per demand.

The fourth activity titled "Aj tak ma neoklameš, mám svoj názor" delivered educational workshops focused on social inclusion and the responsible use of audiovisual media and social networks. These workshops helped participants build critical thinking skills and media literacy.

To further enhance the project''s impact, international experience was incorporated through teacher training workshops. Educators participated in three major international workshops where they explored innovative methods for motivating children and youth to develop their skills and talents.

Finally, project publicity played a crucial role in raising awareness and visibility of the activities and achievements of children and youth from less-developed regions. The publicity efforts highlighted their talents and contributions, ensuring recognition at both local and broader levels.

Overall, the project successfully addressed key challenges by providing comprehensive support for children and youth through sports, education, and inclusion initiatives, while also creating sustainable spaces and opportunities for their growth and development.

The project achieved significant results by supporting children and youth in less-developed regions through sports, education, and social inclusion activities.

The introduction of sports tournaments and cultural workshops improved participants'' physical fitness, reduced social isolation, and revealed new talents. Science fairs and workshops such as “Kúzelná fyzika” enhanced their skills and employability prospects, fostering interest in science and innovation.

A new Multifunctional Center  was established, providing extended and accessible services for extracurricular activities in a safe and supportive environment. Educational workshops, like “Aj tak ma neoklameš, mám svoj názor,” strengthened social inclusion and media literacy among youth, encouraging critical thinking and responsible media use.

The project also supported teachers through international workshops, enabling them to apply innovative methods to better engage and motivate children.

Finally, publicity efforts raised awareness of the achievements and talents of participants, highlighting their contributions in less-developed regions.

Overall, the project created opportunities for personal development, improved skills, and increased inclusion for children and youth while building a stronger foundation for their future growth.

Summary of bilateral results

The participation of the donor partner brought significant benefits by introducing new forms of education and supporting extracurricular activities in less-developed regions of Slovakia and Europe. Teachers and youth workers had the opportunity to reflect on their own methods, limitations, and the support provided by leadership. It became clear that municipal leaders and educational institutions are open to adopting innovative ways to support children and youth, particularly in creating opportunities for meaningful leisure activities. However, it remains essential to appropriately reward youth workers, either through further education opportunities or benefits such as sufficient time dedicated to extracurricular activities.On the bilateral level, the project facilitated a valuable exchange of experiences and introduced new approaches to working with youth. These outcomes contributed to enhancing the quality of support for children and youth in the region.Despite the positive outcomes, further bilateral cooperation will not continue, as the donor partner no longer carries out these activities.

Information on the projects funded by the EEA and Norway Grants is provided by the Programme and Fund Operators in the Beneficiary States, who are responsible for the completeness and accuracy of this information.