Estonia continues to grow at an alarming rate, while its countryside continues to be neglected. With little hope of profits, there is no investment in the smaller towns. And as the towns need to modernize to meet tougher EU regulations, some business are forced to close, unable to meet the costs of upgrading.
So what if a lowcost proposal exisited to provide immediate upgrades to the situation, and provide the opporunity for more long term growth by increasing connections with the future business leaders?
Volunteers. Programs such as EstYes are doing just that. They are providing well managed programs that enable youth to contribute the community, experience new cultures and expand their personal network beyond their home town. With programs for teaching, building restoration, building roads, fixing mills - Estyes provides an means for small localities with little funds to grow further.
So why not make this program mandatory? Why shouldn't every citizen be actively involved in the development of their country, learn how small towns grow and have the chance to provide direct hands on experience? One could argue that this is exploitive of young labor. But combined with classroom education, an immersive program like this would enable youth to develop some real world experience and while extending their world view. Why not combine classroom education on photosynthesis with a week working in a farm? Why not combine classroom education on political science with a public works project?
These seem like win-win situations. The minimal cost in marketing to make this programs more accessible and attractive pales in the cost of their return. As long as they continue to be well run and provide the participants with rewarding experiences.
