THEY came from all over Europe to the Treaty City for the Limerick Youth Service (LYS) Empowering Young People’s Digital Skills, a two-day symposium designed to equip youth and information workers with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to support young people in navigating today’s digital world.
The event brought together youth workers, educators, youth information officers, and specialists from across Ireland and Europe to explore emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the digital sphere.
With technology playing an increasingly central role in young people’s lives, the symposium focused on strengthening digital literacy of professionals who work with young people, while also promoting online safety and harnessing digital tools for creativity, learning, and civic engagement.
The delegates engaged in presentations and workshops with leading professionals in the cyber and digital world, including Dr Maureen Griffin, MGSM Training, Paul Keating, Department of Digital Arts and Media, Technological University of the Shannon and Commisiún na Meán.
Discussions among the diverse group of attendees focused on topics such as digital wellbeing, cyberbullying, online gaming, and the information and resources available for young people, youth workers, teachers, and instructors.
“The digital landscape is constantly evolving and it is essential we understand this environment and have the skills and confidence to guide and support young people to use technology safely,” said Dermot Troy, LYS youth information officer.
The symposium saw youth workers from Belgium, France, North Macedonia, Romania, and Spain join colleagues from Clare, Cork, Donegal, Dublin, Kerry, and Westmeath.