International Award for Young People - MEPI originates from the Duke of Edinburgh awards scheme, which was established in 1956. To this day there are over one hundred countries running the award and more than five million participants.

The Award is committed to encouraging young people between 14 and 25 years of age to discover their potential, express their creativity and take initiatives in a non-competitive way and at the same time learning to be responsible, persistent, respectful and trusting.

It encompasses four sections of activity - Service, Skills, Physical recreation and Expeditions - and three levels - Bronze, Silver and Gold - which present increasing levels of responsibility. A participant tries for one Award at a time and need not have a preceding one.

The programme gives a personal challenge to all participants with guidance from those who are knowledgeable in the chosen activities. The scheme enables young people to establish international relations and a network of friends. It is also widely recognised by educationalists and employers all around the world.

The British Council and The British Embassy in Ljubljana provide assistance to several elementary and secondary schools, which run the programme, by promoting the Award to the young and training the leaders.

For more information on MEPI programme visit www.mepi.info or write to neda@mepi.info.