Stakeholder Meeting at Hellenic Mediterranean University within the SAFETeen Project

On October 30, 2024, a stakeholder meeting was held at the Department of Social Work of the Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU) as part of the European Erasmus+ project titled “Developing Risk Perception and Safe Decision-Making Skills in Adolescents on Road Safety Issues” (SAFETeen).

The meeting was attended by representatives from the HMU Rectorate and academic community, the Regional Directorate of Education of Crete, the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH), the Region of Crete, the Heraklion Traffic Police, the National Emergency Center (EKAV), as well as representatives from NGOs working directly or indirectly in the field of road traffic incident prevention and/or response.

The event focused on dialogue concerning the prevention of road traffic injuries and fatalities, with an emphasis on youth risk-taking behavior and the participatory design of innovative interventions. Participants received a detailed presentation of the SAFETeen project and were invited to contribute as co-creators in the design, implementation, and evaluation of the project’s digital tools — including an emergency mobile application and a virtual reality-based educational tool. These tools aim to reflect the needs and realities of adolescents, empowering them to navigate the road environment safely.

With their knowledge and valuable experience, the participating stakeholders engaged in a productive dialogue on adolescent profiles associated with high-risk behavior, factors contributing to youth vulnerability, the dilemmas they face in traffic settings, and effective strategies for reducing road fatalities. Discussions highlighted the multi-faceted nature of the issue and the crucial role of role models, the need for collaboration among families, schools, and communities, and the importance of incorporating life skills development into the school curriculum to equip children to handle everyday adult challenges responsibly and make sound decisions.

Participants also touched upon the cultural influences in Crete that may, in some cases, reinforce risk behaviors among youth — such as alcohol consumption — with boys from rural areas identified as particularly vulnerable.

To conclude, the working group committed to participating in regular meetings and joint activities foreseen within the SAFETeen project over the coming year.