Verke has been developing and promoting digital youth work for over a decade. However, at the turn of the year, Verke will cease its operations due to budget cuts. Verke has operated with state funding as one of the six Youth work centres of expertise under the Ministry of Education and Culture. Due to government budget cuts, only three Youth work centres of expertise have been selected for the upcoming term.
The role of digital media and technology in youth work has grown significantly in recent years. The digitalization of society and technological advancements, such as the rise of artificial intelligence, have created new challenges and opportunities for youth work. During its 13 years of operation, Verke has produced a wide range of materials that have helped utilize and apply digital media and technology in youth work. This work has promoted the well-being and active citizenship of young people.
Verke’s expert and training services, as well as its knowledge production, have reached a broad range of actors in the youth sector, from municipalities, organisations, and parishes to decision-makers, researchers, and ministries. The diverse materials published during Verke’s final operational period, such as research reports, online courses, videos, and tip lists, will remain available on Verke’s website until the end of the year.
“We are winding down Verke’s operations in an orderly manner to ensure that all the knowledge produced at Verke remains accessible even after the end of our activities,” promises Verke’s Manager Minna Ilva.
The Youth department of the City of Helsinki has provided administrative support for Verke throughout its entire operation. “It is unfortunate that Verke’s operations are ending in the current societal context. The long-term work done by Verke to support young people’s growth in a digital society will leave a lasting impact on the structures of the youth sector,” says Helsinki’s Director of Youth Affairs, Mikko Vatka.
Contact persons:
Minna Ilva, Manager, Verke +35841 512 1703
Mikko Vatka, Director of Youth Affairs, Helsingfors stad, +35840 679 1606