Youth digital initiatives to fight discrimination: a glimpse into the AADA Summer School

In August 2023, IPKO Foundation, in collaboration with Kosova Education Center (KEC), took a significant step in the ongoing project, "Action Against Discrimination for All" (AADA). The project's objective was clear: to empower young minds to combat discrimination and hate speech in their schools and communities. The culmination of this endeavor was the AADA Summer School held at the Innovation and Training Park (ITP) in Prizren from August 23 to 25, 2023.

The AADA Summer School welcomed 60 young participants, mentored by dedicated educators hailing from 15 different schools in 11 municipalities. The project ensured a gender-balanced and inclusive approach, uniting students from various backgrounds and communities.

The first day saw the Summer School participants gather at ITP Prizren, setting the stage for a transformative experience. The curriculum was based on the PONDER Methodology, a powerful tool that instills critical thinking skills, fostering media literacy and enabling adolescents to approach information critically and discern bias. The day was marked by empowering speeches, ice-breaking activities, and sessions on understanding discrimination and interpreting visual messages.

The second day was an opportunity for participants to dive deeper into the methodologies for addressing discrimination and hate speech. They learned about the insidious effects of these issues on society, the role of media, and how to fight them. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, building skills to come up with solutions to these problems and developed projects to make a difference in their communities.

A highlight of the day was a visit to Prizren's historic city, showcasing its rich cultural diversity and coexistence of various ethnic and religious communities.

The final day focused on advocacy tactics against discrimination and hate speech, culminating in the conception and modeling of awareness campaigns. The participants explored ideas for producing digital content, enabling them to advocate against hate speech and discrimination in their schools and communities.

An added bonus was a screening of the film "Përtej Vijave," created by students with a powerful message about combating bullying.

In the end, participants were awarded certificates for their dedication during the three intense and enriching days.

The impact of the AADA Summer School was evident through the voices of its participants and mentors:

"Young people have had the opportunity to learn how to advocate and lobby through their initiatives to fight discrimination and hate speech in their community and school." - Shkëlqim Bahtiri, Summer School Trainer.

"Everything was at the right level, such as the lecture, free student activities, accommodation, and food." - Mentor Mani.

"These three days have served the participants to open their minds and be more open to the differences they have with each other." - Valentina Dushi, Project Mentor.

"We had three great days during Summer School. In addition, we have gained new experiences and advanced our knowledge against discrimination." - Ibrahim Uka, student.

"Together with the other participants of our school, we have learned many things, such as how to fight hate speech, how to stop discrimination, inequality, and other negative phenomena." - Amar Sahatçiu, student.

"I had a great time at the Summer School. Thank you for everything!" - Asel Mudut, student.

The AADA Summer School proved to be an inspiring platform for youth to learn, connect, and pave the way for positive change. It's a testament to the power of education and collaboration in the fight against discrimination and hate speech.