Rural Youth

BACKGROUND: Ever since the start of youth programmes by the EC a focus has been put on inclusion which has been perpetuated with the launch of the YOUTH IN ACTION (YiA) programme. The number of projects and trainings on “Rural Youth” is rather low, though. Nevertheless, youth work in rural areas appears to be vibrant and alive – even though the needs, interests, target groups, aims, methodologies and effects on the local community differ greatly from those in cities. We believe, that these realities seem to be comparably underrepresented in international youth programmes, which is at the same time a big motivation, to set up this TC, which leads at the best to many projects in rural areas. AIMS & OBJECTIVES: • Fostering group building through a participative approach and diverse methodology • Identification of similarities/differences of rural youth in an European context • Creation of a common understanding on key concepts • Enhancement of knowledge on non-formal learning, YiA (and Youthpass) • Exchange of experiences, knowledge, skills and attitudes • Initiation of a profound discussion on essential components of rural youth work (e.g., ideology based organisations, voluntary youth work, participation, community work and networking) • Contact Making and Project Development METHODOLOGY based on the principles of non formal learning/education