MCCM
RESILIENCE
OUR MEDIA
In an era of rapid digitalization, a significant portion of society risks being left behind: the elderly. Recognizing this growing digital divide and its dangers, the Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AGK), a leading civil society organization dedicated to protecting journalists’ rights and promoting media literacy, took action.
The project titled “Empowering the Elderly for Information Integrity” was brought directly to the local communities, with activities and interactive meetings held in Prishtinë, Istog, Suharekë, and Gjakovë. The goal was clear: to equip older citizens with the critical skills needed to navigate the complex modern media landscape, identify misinformation, and use digital tools safely.
AGK’s team started by thoroughly identifying senior centers, organized groups, and social clubs popular among the elderly. They then developed and refined a specialized training module and guidebook, tailored through direct feedback from the participants themselves.
The core of the project was a series of interactive community meetings. Facilitated by dedicated trainers, these sessions saw over 200 elderly citizens gather to discuss the importance of media education, learn how to protect themselves from disinformation, and practice the safe use of social networks.
A cornerstone achievement of the project was the publication of a comprehensive Manual for Media Education of the Elderly. Drawing on a tested training module and the real-life experiences of participants, the guide provides practical advice, clear tips, and easy-to-use tools to help seniors better understand the media, recognize fake news, and navigate social networks safely.
Through this project, the Association of Journalists of Kosovo has not only provided vital tools to a vulnerable demographic but has also fostered a more informed, resilient, and connected community, proving that media literacy is ageless.
The project is funded through the Our Media sub-granting scheme, which has provided support to 21 local projects across the Western Balkans.
The regional program “Our Media: A civil society action to generate media literacy and activism, counter polarisation and promote dialogue” is implemented with the financial support of the European Union by partner organizations SEENPM, Albanian Media Institute, Mediacentar Sarajevo, Press Council of Kosovo, Montenegrin Media Institute, Macedonian Institute for Media, Novi Sad School of Journalism, Peace Institute and Bianet.
This article was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of Press Council of Kosovo and SEENPM and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
