As the “Sustainable Language Education: Bridging the Gap Between EU-Ukraine” project continues at the Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University, a 2023 specialized summer school opened its online and offline “doors” to empower more media and civil society representatives in Ukraine. The 2023 SLEMBG summer school aims to address the critical need for enhanced media literacy and sustainable language education, which are essential for fostering an informed and engaged populace especially in times of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.
One of the primary goals of the summer schools is to provide participants with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the complex media landscape effectively.
This includes training in critical thinking, digital literacy, and the principles of e-democracy. By equipping media professionals and civil society activists with these skills, our summer school seeks to combat misinformation and promote transparency and accountability in the media sector.
The curriculum of the summer schools is carefully crafted to address the specific challenges faced by the media and civil society in Ukraine in times of war. It includes a combination of lectures and practical exercises that cover a wide range of topics, from ethical journalism practices to the use of digital tools for advocacy and public engagement. Participants are encouraged to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios, enhancing their ability to effect positive change in their communities.
Furthermore, the SLEMBG-2023 hybrid summer school serves as a platform for building strong networks among participants and between Ukrainian and European experts. These connections are vital for facilitating the exchange of knowledge and best practices, fostering a collaborative environment that supports the ongoing development of media and civil society in Ukraine even in these challenging times. The program also highlights the importance of sustainable practices, ensuring that participants can continue to apply what they have learned long after the summer school sessions have ended.
We believe that two of the summer schools within the “Sustainable Language Education: Bridging the Gap Between EU-Ukraine” project have already played a pivotal role in strengthening the capacity of Ukrainian media and civil society. By providing targeted training and fostering international collaboration, these summer schools contribute to the creation of a more informed, democratic, and resilient society in Ukraine, aligned with European values and standards.
SLEMBG Summer School 2023: Empowering Ukrainian Media and Civil Society Through a Summer School