25 young people from the partner regions of Styria and the EYFON network in six European countries accepted the invitation and discussed their future in Europe
Graz (OTS) – In cooperation with the Styrian state government, the European Youth Forum Neumarkt (EYFON) is hosting the “Partner Regions of Styria” for the second time. In the second week of June, the Europaburg was filled with 25 participants from six countries – Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Ukraine, Kosovo and Hungary – and offered a varied program on the topics of sustainable education, future viability, personal strengths, intercultural skills and European Mobility programs. “Europe is our future! The initiatives of the European Youth Forum Neumarkt, which connects young people from different countries and thus promotes a common Europe, are all the more important
“, so Europalandesrat Werner Amon.
During the seminar week, the young people dealt with the role and future of the regions in the European context and the opportunities for young people. In addition to workshops and lectures, a varied leisure program in the Zirbitzkogel-Grebenzen region ensured balance and cohesion and strengthened intercultural understanding.
Voices about the program
“This cooperation has become particularly valuable since 2022, as Ukraine is at war due to Russia’s attack, which violates international law. Our university has signed a cooperation agreement with EYFON and the municipality of Neumarkt. Participating in the project allows our students to live and learn under completely different conditions for a week – without air raids, power outages and constant fear. Exchanging ideas with young people from European universities helps us become stronger and more resilient to stress. We know that we are not alone, and this support is very important for us.” – emphasizes Prof. Olga Tsaryk from the University of Western Ukraine in Ternopil.
“It was the first time I took part in a program like this. There are many people from other countries who speak different languages, but we bonded through the games and lectures we attended. This was an amazing experience, it felt like the whole world could be connected. This is one of the experiences that I will remember for the rest of my life.” – explains Elvira Prusova, student and participant from Ukraine.
About EYFON
EYFON is a meeting and dialogue center that focuses on European young people aged 16 to 25. The aim is to arouse enthusiasm for Europe among young people and to trigger positive emotions about a united Europe. „The world is open to young people – they just have to take advantage of their opportunities. The days spent together at the Europaburg in Neumarkt are intended to encourage young people to do this!
“, underlined Dr. Christoph Leitl, Initiator of the project and President of EYFON.
Questions & Contact:
European Youth Forum Neumarkt (EYFON)
Managing director Mag. Christian Buchmann
Tel.: 0664/9123366
office@eyfon.at