As a participant of the Erasmus+ training course titled “Non-formal Education in Youth and Community Work,” which took place from September 23 to 30, 2024, in the picturesque coastal town of Pirovac, Croatia, I had the unique opportunity to experience a transformative learning journey. Organized by the PRONI Centre for Social Education, this week-long program brought together professionals from various fields, united by the shared goal of enhancing their skills in non-formal education and community work. This article aims to reflect on the essence of the project, the experiences we gained, and the lasting lessons I took away from it.
The Project Itself
The training course, hosted by PRONI Centre for Social Education, was designed to equip youth workers, social workers, teachers, psychologists, and other professionals with the necessary skills to create and facilitate non-formal learning environments. With its establishment in 1998, PRONI has been dedicated to supporting young people from diverse backgrounds, promoting respect for differences in ethnicity, religion, culture, and gender. This project was no different—focused on providing tools to engage young people through experiential learning, it delved into the essence of non-formal education as a powerful method for youth and community development.
The course topics included communication skills for effective youth facilitation, methods of designing training programs, setting achievable goals, and creating inclusive non-formal learning environments. Participants learned how to facilitate co-learning, experiential learning, and foster a sense of community through non-formal methods. We explored these subjects through interactive workshops and group activities, set against the backdrop of Pirovac’s serene coastal landscape.
Why It Was So Good
From the very start, it was clear that this program was meticulously crafted to ensure active engagement and deep learning. One of the standout aspects was the diversity of participants—professionals from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds coming together in one space. This allowed for rich exchanges of ideas and perspectives, which in itself was a significant learning experience. The location in Pirovac, a peaceful town in northern Dalmatia, provided an ideal environment for focused reflection, away from the distractions of everyday life.
The facilitators from PRONI Centre were exceptionally skilled, combining deep knowledge of non-formal education methods with a genuine passion for youth work. Their ability to create a supportive and inclusive atmosphere allowed participants to step out of their comfort zones and fully engage with the material. Whether through small group discussions, role-playing exercises, or experiential learning simulations, the facilitators ensured that the learning was not only theoretical but also deeply practical and hands-on.
The venue itself, the PRONI Training Center, offered comfortable accommodations, and the daily schedule was well-balanced, providing time for both structured learning and informal networking. The meals served at the center gave us a taste of Croatian cuisine, contributing to the overall cultural exchange experience. The warm weather of Pirovac in September—hovering between 25 and 30 °C during the day—added to the overall sense of comfort and ease.
What I Learned
Participating in this project significantly broadened my understanding of non-formal education and its impact on young people. The concept of experiential learning, where learners are actively engaged in hands-on activities and reflection, was particularly enlightening. We discussed how this method can lead to lasting change, not just in knowledge acquisition, but in attitude, skills, and behaviors. The focus on communication skills—how to actively listen, encourage participation, and manage group dynamics—has equipped me with tools I can apply in both professional and personal settings.
One of the key takeaways was the role of the facilitator in youth work. It became clear that facilitation is not just about delivering content but also about creating a safe and supportive environment where young people feel empowered to express themselves and take ownership of their learning journey. Additionally, I gained valuable insights into designing training programs with clear objectives and achievable goals, ensuring that learning outcomes are both meaningful and measurable.
Finally, the experience reinforced the importance of collaboration. Working alongside participants from different fields and countries reminded me of the power of collective learning. Each individual brought their own expertise and perspective to the table, and through this shared learning process, we were able to develop new ideas and strategies for our work with young people.
Conclusion
The “Non-formal Education in Youth and Community Work” training course was an incredibly rewarding experience, both professionally and personally. It provided me with practical tools and a deeper understanding of how to create impactful learning environments for young people. More importantly, it offered a space for meaningful connections and shared learning, which I believe will continue to inspire my work in the future. I am grateful to PRONI Centre for Social Education for this opportunity and look forward to applying the knowledge and skills gained in my community.
