DIGITAL RURALSHIP is a European cooperation project funded by the Erasmus+ programme that aims to strengthen youth participation and digital youth work in rural areas. Over the next 30 months, organisations from Spain (AMICS), Hungary (TIA), Latvia (Baltic Regional Fund), Poland (Akweduct), Finland (Hyvärilä Youth Centre) and Italy (Vedogiovane) will work together to explore how digital tools can help young people from rural communities connect, learn and participate more actively in society.
The project focuses on reducing the digital gap affecting rural youth, while supporting youth workers with innovative methods and tools. Through research, focus groups and policy analysis, the partnership will map the current situation of digital youth work in rural Europe and identify the needs and challenges faced by young people aged 13–25. These insights will guide the development of new approaches that combine digital participation, virtual environments and non-formal education.
One of the most exciting elements of DIGITAL RURALSHIP is the creation of a youth participation space in the Metaverse, where young people will be able to interact, learn and take part in activities regardless of geographical barriers. The project will also develop VR-based games and learning activities, organise virtual youth exchanges, a Toolfair mobility to test the digital tools, and a training course for youth workers hosted on the SALTO HOP platform. In addition, the project will produce research reports, practical guidelines and an online training course that will remain available after the project ends, ensuring a long-term impact on digital youth work in rural communities across Europe.
