Call for Papers
International Conference
Empowering the Future: Exploring the Role of Faith in Youth Development
In an era characterized by rapid social, technological, and cultural transformations, the relationship between youth and faith remains a critical area of exploration. This conference aims to bring together scholars, educators, and youth advocates to explore the multifaceted relationship between youth and faith. The goal is to understand how faith can be a guiding force in the development of young individuals, fostering resilience, moral integrity, and a sense of community.
Objectives
- To examine the current landscape of youth and faith across different cultures and religions.
- To explore the challenges and opportunities faced by young people in maintaining their faith in a secular world.
- To identify best practices and innovative approaches for faith-based youth development programs.
- To facilitate a dialogue between various stakeholders on the integration of faith and modern youth culture.
- To empower young individuals to articulate their faith experiences and perspectives.
The language of the Conference is English.
The deadline for abstract submissions: July 15, 2024
Selected participants notification: July 29, 2024
Submission of draft papers: October 1, 2024
Inquiries, abstracts and papers with a short bio and contact number should be sent to programs@cns.ba.
Themes and Topics
1. Faith and Identity Formation:
– The role of faith in shaping personal and social identity.
– Faith as a source of resilience and coping in times of crisis.
– Interfaith dialogue and understanding among youth.
2. Faith and Education
Incorporating faith perspectives in educational curricula.
The impact of faith-based schools and institutions on youth development.
Faith and academic success: Synergies and conflicts.
3. Faith in the Digital Age:
– The influence of social media and digital platforms on youth faith practices.
– Navigating faith in an era of information overload and misinformation.
– Opportunities and challenges of online faith communities.
4. Youth Leadership and Faith:
– Cultivating leadership skills through faith-based initiatives.
– Role models and mentors in faith development.
– Case studies of successful youth faith leaders and movements.
5. Faith, Mental Health, and Well-being:
– The intersection of faith and mental health among youth.
– Faith-based approaches to mental health support.
– Addressing stigmas and misconceptions related to faith and mental health.
Target Audience
– Youth leaders and activists
– Educators and academic researchers
– Religious and spiritual leaders
– Mental health professionals
– Community organizers
– Policy makers and government representatives
Conclusion
This conference on youth and faith is an opportunity to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, fostering a supportive environment where young people can thrive both spiritually and socially. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, we aim to facilitate a holistic approach to youth development that is rooted in faith and community. We invite scholars, practitioners, religious leaders, youth representatives, and community stakeholders to join us in this important dialogue.
Organizers
Center for Advanced Studies, Albanian Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization, Institute for Education, Heritage and Tourism, and Center for Inter-Cultural Understanding “Horizonti” with the support of the International Institute of Islamic Thought.
