The fifth edition of the School of Activism has concluded

After six intensive weeks of theoretical and practical learning on the principles, processes, and best practices for the functioning of civil society organizations, the fifth edition of the School of Activism concluded today.

This edition concluded with the sixth and final module, “Participatory Advocacy”, following the modules on internal governance, community mobilization, impact measurement, diversification of financial resources, and gender mainstreaming. In doing so, the overall learning process was connected with civic action and participation in decision-making.

During the sessions led by Mr. Drilon Shala, an expert in governance, public accountability, monitoring, and evaluation, participants explored participatory democracy, the concept of participatory advocacy, community involvement in the work of CSOs, the policymaking cycle, and the role citizens can play at each stage of decision-making.

Through discussions and practical exercises, participants analyzed concrete community problems and reflected on the steps needed to address them in an organized and participatory manner. The module also focused on formal mechanisms for citizen participation at the local and central levels, including public consultations, budget hearings, petitions, civic initiatives, and access to public documents.

Meanwhile, during the session led by Mr. Besmir Radoniqi, Researcher at KCSF, participants were introduced in more detail to the Online Public Consultation Platform, how it functions, and the most effective ways to provide comments, recommendations, and contributions to policymaking processes.

At the conclusion of the fifth edition of the School of Activism, participants were also informed about the opportunity for mentoring after the School of Activism, as a next step in supporting organizations to practically apply the knowledge and approaches developed throughout the six modules.

The School of Activism is organized within the framework of the Resource Centre for Civil Society in Kosovo.

This activity is co-funded by the European Union and Sweden. Its content is the sole responsibility of the Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF) and Community Building Mitrovica (CBM) and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or Sweden.