LKA researchers develop a practical tool to strengthen meaningful youth participation in schools
Researchers at the Latvian Academy of Culture have developed a Roadmap for Meaningful Youth Participation in Educational Institutions – a practical tool designed to help schools assess their current practices and strengthen young people’s involvement in decision-making.
The Roadmap was developed within the research project “Preconditions of authentic youth participation in formal and non-formal education" / UNFRAMED. The project explores the factors that shape authentic and meaningful civic participation among young people aged 13–25 and develops practical solutions to strengthen youth participation in educational settings.
The new tool draws on research findings and insights gathered through discussions with students, teachers and school administrators in nearly 20 schools across Latvia, as well as examples of international good practice. Its aim is to support schools in moving beyond simply providing opportunities for young people to express their views towards meaningful participation, partnership and co-creation.
The Roadmap offers a structured three-step approach. First, schools can map their current situation and assess young people’s involvement in different areas of school life. The second step focuses on developing a shared vision for strengthening youth participation, while the third supports schools in turning ideas into concrete actions, defining responsibilities and reviewing progress.
The tool is intended for school administrators, teachers, student councils and young people themselves, providing a framework for structured dialogue between young people and adults in the school environment.
The UNFRAMED project (No. VPP-IZM-Izglītība-2023/6-0002) is funded by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Latvia within the State Research Programme “Education” (2023–2026) and administered by the Latvian Council of Science.
The Roadmap is currently available in Latvian.