1 elementary school , 7 primary schools and 2 secondary schools function in Bratsigovo Municipality. 775 children study in municipal schools, as 257 children study in secondary schools. Loosen control of parents and teachers caused by the social conditions of transition period, lack of organized forms of spending children free time, easy access to alcohol and drugs lead to causing apathy among young generation. On the other hand, there are active and initiative youngsters who possess leadership skills but no experience and knowledge so that they could lead their mates.

The beginning of project work was put in January 2006. After conducted information campaign 19 youngsters expressed their willingness to participate in the Youth Parliament.

An inquiry among young generation was conducted which brought out the most significant issues within the municipality free drug sale, free access to alcohol and tobacco, lack of forms for spending children free time.

On February 24, 2006, a constituent parliament assembly was conducted. Concrete problems of young people were identified at the following two assemblies; it was decided to focus on the following: 1. preventing drug misuse; 2. sexual behavior of young people; 3. lack of opportunities for spending free time. Three work groups were set up to work out action proposals.

Two computers were purchased and installed in an office in the Youth House Bratsigovo. The computer equipment is needed for young people s work when preparing youth initiatives and information campaigns.

In result of group work three radio transmissions were prepared and broadcasted in March 2006 on the following topics: Danger of Drugs, Alcohol and Smoking, Sexual Education and Culture of Young People, Why do Young People Leave Bratsigovo and Go to Live and Work in Big Cities or Abroad?

Information campaign was organized on behalf of young people s initiative which appealed to fighting against drugs and alcohol misuse.

Parliament members participated actively in implementing the project Enhancing health culture of local population for fighting against domestic animals threats . Youth participated by presenting the jury in ranking the prepared by children and youth information materials, as well as by organizing a lottery game within the project information campaign.

On March 10, 2006, hot telephone line was opened that is helpful to give answers and possible solutions to problems shared by young people.

5 one-day trainings were organized for the Parliament Members on: 1. Strategic Planning; 2. Designing and Managing Projects; 3. Basic Computer Skills; 4. Basic Internet Skills; 5. Youth s participation in community life.

After conducting of trainings participants developed a project idea called The World close to Us equipping a multimedia hall for training young people in Bratsigovo Municipality to modern information technologies. It is envisaged that young people will have free access to that hall and that regular seminars and trainings will be conducted.

In regard to building a sport hall in Bratsigovo within a project funded by Peace Corps, participants in Youth Parliament held three trainings on: Danger of drugs, alcohol and smoking; Sexual Education and Culture of Young People; Healthy Feeding and Right Way of Living.

10 young people trained Youth Parliament Members in skills that will help them take part in community life.

First initiatives organized by the Youth Parliament Members trainings for young people lectured by young people.

Young people are confident that they create their destiny. The Youth Parliament s work goes on.

For more contacts :

Bratsigovo Municipality

Tel. : 00 359 3552/20 65

Fax : 00 359 3552/21 01; 20 63