SEEU and Gostivar Municipality Launch Youth Awareness Campaign as Part of ChallengeEU
Within the framework of the ChallengeEU initiative, South East European University, in cooperation with the Municipality of Gostivar as an Associate Partner of the ChallengeEU Alliance, launched a youth awareness campaign in the Medical High School and the Gymnasium in Gostivar. During the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shpresa Alija, acting as a M.A.R.K.E.T. Officer, presented the ChallengeEU project, with particular emphasis on its third pillar focused on Mental Health and Wellbeing, highlighting the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles and supporting the wellbeing of young people. The neuropsychiatric expert Prof. Dr. Naser Durmishi delivered an interactive lecture addressing the risks and consequences associated with the consumption of energy drinks and illegal substances among young people. The session emphasized the importance of prevention, awareness and early education in fostering healthier behaviours among adolescents. Representatives of the Municipality of Gostivar also attended the activity, reaffirming the importance of cooperation between local institutions and academia in advancing youth education, mental health and social wellbeing. As part of the ongoing campaign, similar awareness activities are planned to continue in two additional high schools in Gostivar, namely the Economic School and the Industrial School. The students demonstrated significant interest in the discussed topics and actively engaged throughout the sessions through questions and discussions, contributing to a highly interactive and meaningful event. The activity reflects the mission of ChallengeEU to connect universities, regional stakeholders and local communities in addressing real-life challenges that affect society. By promoting cooperation between academia and local partners, the Alliance supports initiatives that contribute to healthier, more inclusive and more resilient communities.
