About Near Serbia

Primary objective is improving the safety of young people 15 - 24 years of age, by raising awareness of the importance of respecting traffic regulations, highlighting the consequences of non compliance, while enhancing knowledge and attitudes. At the same time we want to give psychological support to young people who have lost someone in road traffic accident.

In an effort to enhance traffic safety awareness, our preventive model includes a comprehensive approach targeting high school students in Novi Sad. From January to March 2024, a series of engaging activities will be implemented across six high schools, fostering a culture of responsible behavior on the roads.

1. Lectures by Traffic Safety Experts: Expert speakers in traffic safety will conduct informative lectures. These sessions will not only cover essential traffic rules but also delve into the psychology of safe driving. Moreover, individuals who have survived traffic collisions will share their personal experiences, adding a poignant and relatable dimension to the discussions.

2. Interactive Experience with "Drunk Goggles" and Psychoactive Substance Simulation: Students will have the opportunity to wear "drunk goggles" that simulate visual impairment based on alcohol consumption. Additionally, specific goggles simulating the effects of psychoactive substances will be provided. These interactive experiences aim to vividly illustrate the dangers of impaired driving, fostering a deeper understanding of the consequences.

3. Post-Lecture Testing: After each lecture, students will undergo a testing phase to assess their comprehension of the presented material. This evaluation ensures that participants grasp the importance of responsible behavior in traffic and reinforces key safety principles.

4. Final Competition: To culminate the awareness campaign, a final competition will be organized. Four-member teams from each of the six schools will participate, putting their knowledge to the test in a friendly yet competitive environment. This event encourages teamwork and reinforces the significance of applying traffic safety principles in real-life scenarios.

5. Prizes and Recognition: Recognizing and rewarding participants for their commitment to traffic safety, prizes will be awarded to the winning teams. This not only motivates students to actively engage in the learning process but also encourages the dissemination of safety knowledge within their peer circles.

6. Community Involvement: The campaign will extend beyond the school premises, involving parents and the broader community. By fostering a sense of collective responsibility, the initiative aims to create a community-wide commitment to safe and responsible road behavior.

7. Long-Term Impact Assessment: To gauge the effectiveness of the program, follow-up assessments will be conducted to measure any positive changes in students' attitudes and behaviors towards traffic safety. This data will inform future initiatives and contribute to the continuous improvement of traffic safety education.

As part of the commemoration of the World Day of Remembrance for Traffic Collision Victims, a simulation of traffic collision is planned, aiming to convey to students the severity of the situation and the significance of the role of emergency services in saving lives. The participants will witness the work of emergency services and the importance of providing first aid in critical situations through this simulation.

In this support model, we aim to provide psychological support to young individuals who have experienced the loss of a loved one in a road traffic accident. Our approach involves organizing psychological support groups, facilitated by a team of expert psychologists and psychotherapists. The primary goal is to offer a supportive environment where individuals can navigate the challenges of grief and find solace in shared experiences.

Pros of the Support Model:

1. Expert Facilitation: The support groups will be led by skilled psychologists and psychotherapists with expertise in grief counseling. Their knowledge and experience will ensure a professionally guided and effective support system.

2. Tailored for Young People: Recognizing the unique needs of young individuals, the support model is specifically designed for this demographic. It takes into account the developmental aspects and emotional challenges that young people may face in the aftermath of a tragic loss.

3. Shared Experiences: Group settings allow participants to connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. This shared understanding can foster a sense of community, reducing feelings of isolation and providing validation to participants.

4. Holistic Approach: The support model goes beyond traditional counseling by adopting a holistic approach to well-being. It acknowledges the psychological impact of the loss and aims to address emotional, mental, and social aspects of the grieving process.

5. Safe and Confidential Environment: Participants will have the opportunity to express themselves in a safe and confidential space. This setting encourages open communication and allows individuals to share their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment.

6. Coping Strategies: The support groups will not only provide a platform for emotional expression but also equip participants with practical coping strategies. This can empower individuals to navigate the grieving process and build resilience over time.

7. Long-term Support: Grief is a complex and ongoing process. This support model recognizes the need for sustained assistance and offers the potential for long-term engagement, ensuring that participants receive continuous support as they navigate their grief journey.