The LINKS project, a project focused on building the capacity of youth workers in the areas of digital sovereignty and digital security, is at the forefront of addressing the evolving landscape of digital sovereignty. In an era where data has become a valuable asset, the concept of digital sovereignty gains prominence, advocating for the control and ownership of personal data by respective parties. At an individual level, digital sovereignty embodies the empowerment of individuals to own and regulate the use of their personal data. However, as the data economy expands amidst the ongoing digital transformation, privacy and security concerns are escalating. These concerns are particularly relevant in the youth work sector, where professionals handle sensitive information, including medical records and emergency contacts.
This project emerges as a proactive response to these challenges, aiming to equip youth workers with the skills and competencies necessary to navigate the digital landscape responsibly. The project serves a dual purpose: firstly, on an individual level, it enables youth workers to enhance their knowledge and utilize tools effectively to control and evaluate the use of personal digital data. Secondly, on a societal level, by elevating the digital sovereignty of youth workers, the project ensures the safeguarding of digital data for organizations, NGOs, and groups they support, such as migrants, refugees, and unemployed youth, against potential misuse or cyber-attacks.
A distinctive feature of the LINKS project is its innovative approach to training, delivered through “digital nuggets,” a microlearning method designed to accommodate the busy schedules of modern learners. This approach presents content in small, digestible doses, maximizing effectiveness and speed in knowledge acquisition. As the project nears its completion, the Innovation Hive is organizing an informative event at Kek Learn on February 16th at 12:00. This event aims to reveal the outcomes of the project, showcasing the LINKS Digital Sovereignty Competences Framework and the online platform and training materials developed for enhancing digital sovereignty competences. By doing so, the project contributes to a more secure and empowered digital environment for both individuals and the organizations they serve.
In conclusion, the project emerges as a vital force in addressing the critical issues of digital sovereignty and data privacy within the realm of youth work. Through its comprehensive training approach and innovative methods, the initiative not only empowers individual youth workers but also contributes to the broader societal goal of protecting digital data for vulnerable groups.
