Youth on the Move: How High School Students Are Creating Better Schools and Communities
In a time when young people face numerous challenges—from social injustices to environmental issues—the Youth on the Move program offers them an opportunity to take initiative and make a difference in their schools and communities. Launched with the goal of encouraging democratic and civic education through hands-on activities, the program has so far supported over 100 school parliament projects across Serbia. Its greatest strength lies in the fact that students themselves design and implement the projects, gaining essential knowledge and skills that shape them as future participants in social and political life.
"How can I change something in my city or country if I can't first change something in my school?"
Through Youth on the Move, students identify problems in their environment, define goals, and create innovative solutions. Some of the main issues they have focused on include:
- Improving communication between teachers and students,
- Enhancing school life and educational content,
- Raising awareness of the importance of critical thinking,
- Challenging prejudice against minorities and marginalized groups,
- Developing media literacy,
- Peer education on democratic processes.
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. Through debates, forums, art projects, workshops, and social media campaigns, young people have raised their voices and inspired others to join them.
Creative Actions That Inspire Change
Youth on the Move supports a wide range of activities, giving participants the freedom to shape projects according to their interests and the needs of their communities. Some of the most impactful initiatives include:
- Street actions and performances – Youth use artistic expressions such as flash mobs, theater performances, and public debates to draw attention to important social issues and encourage peers to reflect and take action.
- Murals that tell visual stories – By painting schools and public spaces with powerful messages, students send strong visual cues for dialogue and change. Each mural serves as a lasting reminder of the values they stand for.
- Social media as a tool for activism – Instead of passively scrolling, young people use digital platforms to spread messages about human rights, ecology, and civic responsibility—proving that social media can be a powerful tool for positive change.
- Workshops and lectures – Covering topics from ecology to media literacy, students organize discussions on crucial issues often overlooked in formal education.
Collaborations with experts, influencers, and other schools help them better understand problems and develop real solutions.
Program Results – Future Leaders
The greatest success of this program lies in its participants—young people who have gained the confidence to become drivers of change. Many former participants are now leaders in their communities, active members of student organizations, and organizers of civic initiatives.
Sofija, a former participant, says:
"The 'Youth on the Move' program allowed me to explore environmental issues in my area and realize how important it is for youth to be involved in solving them. Working on pollution taught me how to propose concrete solutions and articulate ideas. I was most inspired by teamwork and planning actions with peers who share the same goals and values."
Teodora, another participant, adds:
"Through ‘Youth on the Move,’ I gained new knowledge, lasting friendships, and the chance to work on issues rarely addressed in school classes—in a fun way. What fulfills me most is that we help the community through workshops, while also growing ourselves. Collaborating with other schools in our district showed me how much we can achieve when we act together."
The Youth on the Move program continues to empower young people across Serbia, giving them the tools and support to actively shape their communities and the future of democratic society. Their ideas, energy, and commitment show that change is not only possible—it is already happening.
