The Twenty-First Meeting with Youth – An Exchange of Creative Ideas

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Today, in the era of digitalization and rapid information exchange, technology has become a key tool for improving life at the local level. In this context, the My Novi Pazar app represents a significant step toward modernization, more efficient functioning of the local community, and the creation of new opportunities for all citizens. This twenty-first meeting with young people, held to present the app, is yet another step in the effort to improve communication, access to information, and civic engagement in our city.

The My Novi Pazar application is designed to serve as a centralized digital hub for all important information, services, and events taking place in the city. Through the app, citizens can follow news and announcements and report issues related to infrastructure, public services, safety, and other aspects of daily life. This is especially important for young people, who are technologically aware and eager to actively participate in shaping their city, as they are the most frequent users of digital platforms.

Why is such an app needed at the local level?

  1. Increased Efficiency
    By introducing the My Novi Pazar app, citizens can quickly and easily inform the relevant services about problems such as unclean streets, broken streetlights, water supply issues, and more. This allows authorities to respond faster, leading to more efficient solutions to everyday challenges.

  2. Centralization of Information
    All data, announcements, and events related to the city are accessible in one place. Young people are particularly interested in cultural, sports, and educational events, and the app allows them to track all such events, as well as opportunities for employment and education. In this way, it provides a simple tool for engagement and information access.

  3. Transparency and Accountability
    With digitalization comes greater transparency in the work of local authorities. Citizens can monitor how reported problems are being addressed and what priorities are being set for city development. This system encourages authorities to act responsibly and respond to the real needs of citizens.

  4. Remote Access to Services
    Many administrative services can be accessed directly through the app, saving time for citizens—especially young people who may not have time to visit various institutions in person. Services such as registration, application submission, or tracking the status of procedures can be done from the comfort of home.

The App’s Role in Connecting Local Authorities and NGOs

One of the key aspects of this application is its role in strengthening the relationship between local authorities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). In the decision-making process—particularly when it comes to community development—it is essential to include all relevant stakeholders, especially NGOs, which often have a deep understanding of the community’s needs and concrete solutions to many challenges.

The My Novi Pazar app can serve as a bridge between these two sides. Through it, NGOs can more easily access information about plans and projects being implemented in the city, as well as provide feedback on the needs and suggestions of citizens. In this way, not only is dialogue opened, but two-way communication is enabled, which is crucial for building trust and cooperation between citizens, NGOs, and local authorities.

Moreover, the app allows NGOs to quickly and easily organize petitions, surveys, or campaigns that can contribute to improved public policies or draw attention to specific social issues. On the other hand, local authorities can use the app to inform organizations about new initiatives, projects, and opportunities for collaboration—thus increasing participation and engagement in the decision-making process.

The My Novi Pazar app is a step toward the future, where citizens—especially the youth—will have a direct impact on shaping their city. Through this app, not only is faster and more efficient communication between citizens and the authorities enabled, but a platform is created for active participation in decision-making. The app’s role in linking local authorities with NGOs is crucial, as it allows for greater cooperation, transparency, and most importantly, the development of joint solutions for the challenges we face.

Through this twenty-first meeting, we invite young people to actively engage in the process, using all the advantages this app offers—because only by working together can we build a better Novi Pazar for all.