Empowering Young People Through Information: Aġenzija Żgħażagħ’s Role in Youth Information Networks

Empowering Young People Through Information: Aġenzija Żgħażagħ’s Role in Youth Information Networks

In an ever-changing world, access to timely and relevant information is critical for young people navigating key life decisions, whether related to education, careers, personal development, or social engagement. Aġenzija Żgħażagħ remains committed to supporting young people by not only listening to their voices but also ensuring they have the information they need to shape their futures. This commitment aligns with Malta’s National Youth Policy towards 2030, particularly its first strategic goal: “To listen to and support the voices of young people and raise awareness among young people of issues that impact their everyday lives and provide youth information.”

The organisation’s participation in key European youth information networks—ERYICA (European Youth Information and Counselling Agency), Eurodesk, and EYCA (European Youth Card Association)—strengthens its capacity to broaden these efforts. These partnerships ensure that young people in Malta are connected to Europe-wide opportunities, informed about critical issues, and empowered to engage in activities that shape their growth.

ERYICA: Raising Awareness and Counselling Support

As part of the ERYICA network, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ is committed to advocating for quality youth information services and ensuring that young people receive trustworthy and relevant guidance. ERYICA’s values closely align with the work done locally, particularly in promoting youth information as a right, not a privilege. Through this network, the agency contributes to improving the standard of youth information services, making them more accessible, youth-friendly, and evidence-based.

Aġenzija Żgħażagħ is also proud to have been awarded the European Youth Information Quality Label by ERYICA. This certification is a visible sign that the information provided has been verified and is reliable, ensuring that young people can trust the guidance they receive. The label is awarded to youth information organisations that meet rigorous criteria, further strengthening the agency’s commitment to delivering accurate, transparent, and youth-centred information.

In practice, this means equipping young people with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions on issues ranging from mental health and career choices to digital literacy. By receiving the European Youth Information Quality Label, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ ensures that its services continue to meet the highest standards, empowering young people to confidently navigate the challenges they face.

Eurodesk: A Gateway to European Opportunities

Eurodesk is a vital information network that connects young people with European mobility opportunities. As Malta’s national Eurodesk coordinator, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ plays a pivotal role in disseminating information about youth exchanges, internships, and volunteering opportunities available through programmes like Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps. The agency’s work ensures that young people in Malta are informed about the wealth of experiences available beyond the islands, helping them broaden their horizons, build skills, and develop a European identity.

Youth information is not just about pushing content—it is about creating access. Aġenzija Żgħażagħ takes a proactive approach in reaching young people where they are, whether through social media, educational institutions, or youth organisations. By sharing youth-tailored information in a relatable way, the agency helps break down barriers to participation, giving all young people, regardless of their background, access to life-changing opportunities.

EYCA: Empowering Young People through the European Youth Card

Through its involvement in the European Youth Card Association, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ supports young people’s access to discounts, services, and opportunities across Europe, reinforcing the notion that young people deserve recognition and support as they build their futures. The European Youth Card provides tangible benefits to its holders, offering them discounts on transport, cultural activities, accommodation, and more. This helps young people pursue their ambitions more affordably, making life’s opportunities more accessible.

At its core, EYCA is about fostering the independence of young people by offering practical, everyday benefits that make mobility and engagement easier. The European Youth Card serves as a bridge, connecting young people to Europe while also supporting their personal and professional growth locally.

Tying It All Together: A Focus on Youth Voices

Aġenzija Żgħażagħ’s engagement in these networks directly contributes to the goals set out in Malta’s National Youth Policy towards 2030. The organisation’s work exemplifies how it strives to listen to young people’s needs and respond with solutions that inform, empower, and engage them. By participating in Eurodesk, ERYICA, and EYCA, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ ensures that youth information services are not only widely available but also relevant to the realities of young people today.

Looking towards the future, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ remains committed to evolving its services in line with the needs of young people. Whether through information campaigns, digital resources, or one-on-one support, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ’s mission is clear: to empower young people with the knowledge they need to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Through this, the organisation echoes the first strategic goal of the National Youth Policy towards 2030—ensuring that young people in Malta are not only heard but fully supported as they navigate the path to adulthood.

One Comment

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