Stephen Piccinino, B. Commerce (Hons) Economics, fourth year.
The EU’s budget encompasses a wide array of sectors. Education and training, including youth projects, should remain at the forefront in the run-up to the financial perspective after 2013.

It is imperative that young people become ever more skilled and flexible in a fast-paced contemporary environment. Much has been achieved, but the focus should be on how the funds are best trickled down to the beneficiaries.

Yentl Spiteri, psychology, third year.
The EU invests enough money in youth projects. There are several programmes in which youths can participate. Most importantly, the programmes vary in theme and so every individual may find a project which interests them.

I believe more information should be given in order to promote these projects and increase participation, not only in these programmes but also as active citizens of Europe.

Samuel Debono, medical student, fourth year.
As far as I know, the EU is investing quite a substantial amount of money in youth projects. However, youths need to know about them, so perhaps there should be more energy invested in creating awareness of the various opportunities that exist.

I think the EU should also emphasise the importance of follow-up projects, whereby youths give feedback and actually do something with what is learnt through the experience. This, in turn, would encourage more youths to apply for funds and the public would be more aware of the investment the EU is making in youths.