‘It was like an episode of Derry Girls’ say pupils from Co Armagh, Tyrone and Donegal after cross border project aimed at building stronger communities
‘It was like an episode of Derry Girls’ remarked some pupils from a Co Armagh school who took part in a cross border project aimed at building stronger communities.
Lismore College in Craigavon was among a number of schools from Donegal and Magherafelt which took part in the project funded through the IFI’s Communities in Partnership programme.
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The project, which aims to build stronger border connections to benefit communities, was delivered by Politics in Action.
Dozens of the young people from both sides of the border gathered with their teachers and guests at Strule Arts Centre in Omagh to showcase the impact that young people can have in their communities.
When asked about their experience of the project, participants responded; “Making new friends, it was like an episode of Derry Girls.”
“I have gained a lot of crucial skills such as teamwork, communication, public speaking and I have learned about mental health.”
“Divisions can be overcome with communication.”
For the past three years, Politics in Action co-ordinated the initiative to empower young people to use their voice and initiate change in their communities.
The event highlighted the huge impact the young people have made in their respective communities through the projects they developed over the course of the programme.
The young people explored themes of segregation and sectarianism, violence against women and girls, how we learn the Irish language, political education and mental health, and drug and alcohol misuse.
“The project is coming to an end after three years; however, the relationships built among the local communities will continue to thrive,” said a spokesperson.
Dr. Thérèse Cullen, Project Manager at Politics in Action said: “There has been such important learning in this project for everyone involved. We now better understand the impact of Brexit and of the border on the young people who live next to it.
"There is an enormous amount to be gained by connecting students, teachers, schools and communities across the border.”
IFI Board Member Bill Pauley adds; “Over the last three years, this Programme has encouraged and built meaningful cross-border partnerships. Young people’s voices are critical for the future of this island, so it is important that we continue to support this work.
"This investment will ensure they can contribute positively to building a shared society.”