Third Stakeholders Meeting in Tartu, Estonia
On September 19th, 2024, the third stakeholders' group meeting of the RuralYouthFuture (RYF) project, focused on “Improving the Role of Youth Policies for Rural Sustainable Development,” convened in Tartu, Estonia. Organized by the Association of Tartu Municipalities' welfare department, the event brought together youth field experts and stakeholders to exchange insights, opportunities, and strategies.
Key discussions centered on the NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) youth situation in Tartu County, where the value of networks and expertise among local welfare specialists was highlighted. The group also reflected on a recent study visit to Slovenia, sharing best practices from Southern European partners.
Another significant focus was the Entrepreneurial Southern Estonian Youth project, which seeks to foster a culture of initiative and entrepreneurship among young people in rural areas, encouraging them to remain engaged with their communities and develop into future leaders. Project managers shared upcoming activities, sparking discussions on collaboration and entrepreneurial integration into youth work.
Additionally, the “Succeed in Business” program, a 207-lesson international training initiative designed to enhance youth entrepreneurship skills, was presented as a valuable opportunity. The Tartu County Youth Council also shared their role in uniting and supporting other youth councils in the region.
The second half of the meeting introduced a welfare specialist-led method called "Privilege," aimed at understanding the diversity and freedom of choice among NEET youth. This was followed by an intense discussion on how to better identify and support NEET youth within the education and employment systems.
The meeting served as a crucial step forward in developing collaborative approaches to empower rural youth and foster sustainable community development. By exchanging knowledge, best practices, and innovative methods, the stakeholders strengthened their network and laid the groundwork for future initiatives that will better support and engage young people in rural Estonia and beyond.