From November 19 to 25, 2024, an Erasmus+ training course, “DigiACT - Contemporary Digital Citizenship”, brought together to Lithuania youth workers, leaders, and educators from six diverse countries—Lithuania, Poland, the Netherlands, Romania, Bulgaria, and Italy. This project was designed to tackle one of today’s most pressing challenges: navigating the digital world responsibly and effectively.

Though young people are often referred to as "digital natives," their journey through the complexities of the digital era is far from straightforward. Issues such as misinformation, cyber crimes, hate speech, and the abuse of human rights online highlight the urgent need for improved digital literacy and active digital citizenship. This training course sought to address these challenges by equipping participants with the tools, knowledge, and strategies necessary for fostering a safer and more informed digital environment.

The course delved deep into critical themes, offering participants a comprehensive exploration of:

• Digital and Media Literacy: Participants examined frameworks to better understand and teach essential digital skills while exploring the European Union's goals for the Digital Decade.

• Cyber Crimes and Dangers: The group confronted the sobering realities of online threats, including identity theft and scams, and discussed proactive strategies to mitigate these risks.

• Human Rights in the Digital Era: Thought-provoking discussions highlighted the importance of protecting freedoms and privacy in an interconnected world.

• Hate Speech and Cyberbullying: Interactive sessions offered practical tools to combat harmful behaviors online while fostering a culture of respect and empathy.

• Digital Footprint Awareness: Participants analyzed their own online presence and explored the long-term consequences of digital actions.

The week-long experience didn’t just stop at dialogue. Participants were encouraged to transform learning into action by devising innovative approaches to promote active digital citizenship in their local communities. Recognizing the potential of youth to lead change, participants brainstormed practical methods to empower young people to:

- Use technology as a tool for social good.

- Identify and counteract misinformation and disinformation.

- Cultivate ethical behavior in the digital sphere.

Each participant left Lithuania with a mission: to organize follow-up activities and disseminate the knowledge gained during the course in their local communities. These local events and virtual initiatives aim to extend the reach of the training course, fostering wider conversations on digital responsibility and Erasmus+ opportunities.

The program underscores the importance of shared responsibility in building a digitally literate society. Through collaboration and community action, the knowledge acquired during DigiACT is set to create a ripple effect, inspiring young people across Europe to become proactive, informed, and conscientious digital citizens.

The project was funded by the EU, approved by the Lithuanian National Agency, organized and coordinated by Loud&Clear.