Empowering Youth for a Transformative Future
Tanja Popovicki delivered an insightful lecture at the Faculty of Philosophy in Belgrade, Department of Andragogy, focusing on the foundations of energy transition and the vital role of citizen participation. Addressing second-year students studying Adult Education for Environment, Popovicki emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to energy transition, illustrating how various fields and perspectives are essential for driving meaningful and sustainable change. The presentation also covered PET’s mission, highlighting its commitment to fostering environmental awareness and advocating for the involvement of diverse sectors in the transition to cleaner energy sources.
Popovicki introduced students to the concept of the "3D energy transition" — a comprehensive model emphasizing Decarbonization, Decentralization, and Digitalization. This approach underscores the necessity of integrating environmental science, technology, policy-making, and community engagement to achieve a resilient and inclusive energy landscape. She particularly focused on ways that young people can become active participants in this transformation, either by supporting renewable energy initiatives or by joining local organizations promoting sustainable practices. Recognizing the students’ enthusiasm, she discussed practical opportunities for renewable energy use in Serbia and the types of local initiatives they could support or join to make an impact.
Through this interactive session, Popovicki underscored that energy transition is not just a technical challenge but a social one, requiring contributions from educators, policymakers, environmentalists, and the public at large. The lecture resonated with students, sparking interest in how they could contribute to Serbia’s energy transition and take part in community-driven environmental initiatives. The session left students with a greater awareness of the interconnectedness of various fields in environmental work and the concrete ways they can influence a transformative future.