AVASA/IIMAS has been awarded the "2022 Institutional Archaeological Heritage Prize" of the European Association of Archaeologists. AVASA/IIMAS – Engaging youngsters in cultural heritage: "Urkesh One-on-One" program. Archaeological heritage seems to be inherently valuable and positive. However, communities react to it in very different ways, and does so depending on the type and location of sites. The mediating role of professionals is essential and the potential of archaeological sites to address important issues in contemporary society is crucial. AVASA ("Association for Furthering Value Archaeology and Ancient History") has implemented the "Urkesh One-on-One" educational program to engage youngsters (12-16 y/o) from Italy, Greece and Syria with the archaeological heritage in their vicinity. Besides the direct impact on learning and an expected support of archaeological heritage protection, this program strengthened other important values and skills that help to build a more inclusive and creative society. For its work in shaping better global citizens through archaeological heritage, bridging the gap between regions and proving the potential of good educational programs to engage with social challenges, AVASA/IIMAS is awarded the "2022 Institutional Archaeological Heritage Prize" of the European Association of Archaeologists. The text of the acceptance speech, read by Dr. Arwa Kharobi, can be downloaded at this link. |