The Peer Education Center Stays Smart
The Peer Education Center has been working this summer as part of Reykjavík City's preventative work, building on the idea that young people educate other young people through peer-to-peer learning. This year, among other topics, they have discussed the Stay Smart campaign, which is run by Reykjavík City.
The Peer Education Center has been working this summer as part of Reykjavík City's preventative work, building on the idea that young people educate other young people through peer-to-peer learning. Each summer, a new peer education group takes over, typically made up of 15 young people between the ages of 16 and 20.
The purpose of the Peer Education Center is to empower young people to think independently and to facilitate active discussions on various topics. The educators meet with groups of young people and spend the day with them.
Stay Smart!
In recent years, the peer education discussions have focused on gender equality, prejudice, and sexuality. This year, they have also covered prevention topics and introduced the Stay Smart campaign. The campaign aims to enhance prevention education for young people, countering negative trends in alcohol and drug use and violence among children.
This summer, the educators have visited youth summer work groups in Reykjavík and neighboring municipalities. The emphasis is on creating a safe space, opening up important discussions, and encouraging critical thinking, self-reflection, and active participation. And it’s all on a peer-to-peer basis.
The young people working as peer educators this year say the work is very rewarding and enriching but also challenging. Each day brings new challenges and discussions that sometimes need to be approached carefully. The peer educators say the work is important because they are sharing information that is vital for everyone, and it is necessary to discuss these issues and educate others in the process.