Tools for the Modern Age, an educational program by Hrvatski Telekom and the University of Zagreb’s Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation Sciences, has won two prestigious international Golden World Awards presented by the International Public Relations Association (IPRA). The program helps children and youth grow up more safely and responsibly in the digital environment and was recognized as the best in the categories of Social Responsibility and Environment, Society and Governance, standing out among global entries. This marks the second consecutive year that HT has received two IPRA awards, further confirming its consistent implementation of projects that bring real benefits to society.
The Golden World Awards are among the most esteemed global recognitions in the field of public relations. Since 1990, IPRA has presented these awards to projects that excel in innovation, creativity, and social impact. This year, some of the world’s largest companies, brands, and agencies from across Europe, North and South America, Asia, and Africa competed for the awards, with winners selected by a jury of respected experts from around the globe – including representatives from companies, agencies, associations, institutions, and universities.
Tools for the Modern Age was designed as a national prevention program for upper primary school students. Through a series of educational workshops for children and lectures for parents and teachers, the program helps young people develop social and emotional skills essential for navigating the challenges of the digital environment – from recognizing risks to building self-confidence, empathy, and responsible online behavior.
So far, the program has reached more than 5,600 students and 452 trained facilitators across over 205 schools throughout Croatia. The results demonstrate a tangible impact – children are more aware of online risks, communicate better, and navigate the digital space more safely.
‘This award is especially meaningful to us because it confirms that Tools for the Modern Age has a real and lasting positive impact – not only in schools but also in families and the broader community. We provide children with essential knowledge and skills for safer and more responsible behavior in the digital world, while also helping parents and teachers better understand the challenges of growing up today. We are proud that our efforts to drive positive change and build a stronger, more resilient and more informed society have been recognized by the international professional community,’ said Igor Vukasović, Director of Corporate Communications at Hrvatski Telekom.
The program has already received both national and international accolades. Earlier this year, it won a SABRE Award for the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East and Africa), as well as an award from the Ministry of Science for scientific and professional work in the field of education for the year 2024. These latest honors from IPRA are further proof that Tools for the Modern Age has a long-term societal impact – particularly in education, children’s mental health, and the promotion of digital literacy within the community.
