Setting the foundations for meaningful change in our society

By Hanna Yerega

The EMERGE project, implemented by CARDET and Koumanto stin Tsepi sou, proudly announces the official release of a comprehensive online educational programme to enhance citizen participation in society. Featuring interactive presentations and materials, the programme offers citizens and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) knowledge and guidance to boost their effectiveness in addressing social problems and overall public engagement.

The training programme is freely available through the website of the project and features a detailed presentation of the key values and principles of democracy, while highlighting the pivotal importance of active participation. Additionally, it offers practical guidance and tools to CSOs (volunteer, youth and non-governmental organisations) to formulate and implement effective strategies to promote their work and vision in an impactful and sustainable manner.

In particular, it analyses democratic values and institutions, as well as the role of citizens in fostering change. It also delves into the ins and outs of active participation from a collective standpoint, while providing guidance about financial freedom to address more individual empowerment. Additionally, it illustrates key principles for good management, at operational and financial level, as well as strategic functioning of CSOs. The programme is complemented by tools and guides that trainees can take advantage of to plan and organise effective initiatives and actions. Ultimately, it offers comprehensive support and advice to help elevate civic participation and empower citizens to have a positive contribution and influence in social affairs.

You can find more about the programme and its material here.

The development of the educational material is just a part of the wider framework of actions implemented by EMERGE to strengthen civil society and promote citizen participation in the public sphere. In hopes to further its contribution, the project is set to implement multiple activities to enhance citizens’ knowledge and develop their ability to transform their opinions and values into actions that contribute to the improvement of our society.

Hanna Yerega is a communication officer at CARDET, working across education and innovation projects