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    Inspiring Testimonials on Lifelong Learning Across Europe

    The PartnerUp Project is transforming adult education across Europe, with powerful testimonials from key representatives that showcase the profound impact of lifelong learning, collaboration, and upskilling initiatives.

    In Ireland, Ruby Cooney from AONTAS demonstrates the transformative potential of adult education through innovative programs that empower learners to enhance their skills, build confidence, and explore new opportunities for personal and professional growth.

    In Cyprus, Dr. Charalambos Vrasidas of CARDET highlights how the PartnerUp Project fosters lifelong learning opportunities that strengthen communities. By embracing collaborative and inclusive approaches, CARDET equips adults with the tools to thrive in an ever-changing world.

    In Croatia, Antonela Marjanusic from the Adult Education Institution Dante, in collaboration with the Croatian Agency for Vocational Education and Training, is driving forward initiatives that create new opportunities for skills development. Their work underscores the value of innovative practices in adult education, unlocking meaningful careers and supporting personal growth for learners nationwide.

    In Latvia, Sarmite Pilate of the Latvian Adult Education Association (LAEA), together with the State Education Development Agency (VIAA), leads transformative programs that prioritize inclusivity. By addressing diverse learning needs and empowering communities, they are ensuring no one is left behind in the journey of lifelong learning.

    In Italy, Sylvia Liuti from FORMA.Azione champions the power of adult education to unlock potential and change lives. Their upskilling initiatives enable individuals to achieve personal and professional goals, strengthening communities and contributing to a more skilled workforce.

    These inspiring testimonials reflect the significant difference the PartnerUp Project is making across Europe. By amplifying voices, fostering collaboration, and prioritizing access to lifelong learning, the project is not only transforming individual lives but also building stronger, more resilient communities.

    Discover more about these impactful stories and how the PartnerUp Project is shaping the future of adult education here!

    Adult Education Association of Latvia: Erasmus+ project “Senior Talents”

    The Adult Education Association of Latvia, together with partners from Austria, Germany and Finland, implements the Erasmus + project “Senior Talents” with the aim to help people 55+ stay in the labour market, prevent poverty in old age, and also support companies in attracting employees.

    The association interviewed lead employees of five companies to understand the obstacles/opportunities to employ people 55+ longer in the company.

    What was heard during the interviews:

    Of course, everything depends individually on each person, but people 55+ prefer to work part-time, want a flexible work schedule, are more balanced, more responsible, but are not ready quickly to switch from one responsibility to another, are afraid of new technologies, sometimes health problems make it difficult to do physical work.

    Companies find a good solution to employ older and younger people in tandem, combining senior experience with youth speed.

    The next step is to ask employees 55+ what would motivate them to work even in retirement.

     

    Webinar by the Hellenic Adult Education Association

    The Hellenic Adult Education Association hosted the Partner Up Webinar on December 13, 2024, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders from various sectors engaged in Adult Education and training. Participants included representatives from the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports; the Labor Institute of GSEE; the University of Athens; the Frederic University in Cyprus; the Hellenic Open University; Second Chance Schools; Vocational Education and Training (VET) providers; and the Public Employment Service. The event served as a platform for collaboration, discussion, and strategic planning to enhance lifelong learning (LLL) and upskilling pathways in Greece.

    The webinar opened with remarks from Mrs. Kafetzopoulou, the Secretary-General for Vocational Education, Training (VET), and Lifelong Learning at the Ministry of Education. She emphasized the government’s commitment to making lifelong learning a top priority and encouraged participants to contribute their expertise and proposals to foster robust collaborations and ensure the sustainability of ongoing projects. Mrs. Kafetzopoulou underscored the importance of collective action to advance upskilling pathways and urged all stakeholders to play an active role in achieving this shared goal.

    Following her opening remarks, the HAEA delivered a comprehensive presentation on the Partner Up Project. This presentation outlined the project’s objectives, outcomes, and key activities, with a particular focus on the insights gathered during its implementation. Findings from focus groups, development teams, and group discussions were highlighted, shedding light on critical challenges and opportunities in the realm of lifelong learning and adult education.

    The presentation was followed by a dynamic group discussion where participants exchanged their impressions of the project and shared ideas for future steps to build effective and inclusive upskilling pathways. A recurring theme in the discussion was the lack of coordinated strategic actions among stakeholders. Participants unanimously agreed that addressing this gap was crucial for the success and sustainability of lifelong learning initiatives.

    As a result, the group collectively decided to draft a policy proposal to be submitted to the Ministry of Education. This proposal will outline actionable steps for fostering deeper, more sustainable, and well-coordinated collaborations among all relevant bodies. The document aims to provide a roadmap for serious and long-term cooperation, emphasizing the need for strategic alignment to meet the diverse needs of learners across Greece.

     

    Partner UP Project Highlighted at “Bridging the Gap Between Higher Education and VET with Industry” Conference

    On December 5th, Dr. Xanthia Aristidou, Senior Project Manager and Researcher at CARDET, delivered a presentation at the “Bridging the Gap Between Higher Education and VET with Industry” Conference, organized by the Foundation for the Management of European Lifelong Learning Programmes (National Agency for Erasmus+ Cyprus). The event, held in Limassol from December 3-5, brought together stakeholders from education, vocational training, and industry to explore collaborative solutions for workforce development.

    Dr. Aristidou’s presentation, titled “Upskilling and Re-skilling the Workforce: The Role of Universities and Adult Education Providers,” highlighted the Partner UP project, a key Erasmus+ initiative aimed at enhancing the implementation of Upskilling Pathways for adult learners. This project plays a crucial role in CARDET’s broader efforts to bridge the gap between education and industry, while aligning with the Renewed Agenda for Adult Learning and contributing to European strategies for lifelong learning.

    The Partner UP project focuses on increasing adult learners’ participation in lifelong learning, reinforcing the Upskilling Pathways Recommendation, and promoting cross-sector collaboration to address skill gaps in key sectors. By fostering this collaboration, Partner UP directly supports the European Skills Agenda and the overall vision for resilient workforce development.

    Upskilling and reskilling are critical for adapting to technological advancements and enhancing workforce flexibility. Universities and adult education providers, through initiatives like Partner UP, align their curricula with industry needs, offer lifelong learning opportunities, and create pathways for workers to upgrade their skills in key sectors. This collaboration ensures that learners are equipped with the skills necessary for a rapidly evolving job market.

    The project also addresses key challenges, such as a lack of basic skills in adults, limited career guidance services, and the absence of national monitoring systems for adult education. It highlights the need for transparent cooperation mechanisms and tools to facilitate communication and coordination among stakeholders, aligning with Cyprus’s Lifelong Learning Strategy to build a more inclusive, skilled workforce.

    Dr. Aristidou’s presentation also underscored CARDET’s other contributions in adult education and lifelong learning, demonstrating how multiple projects intersect to foster inclusive, skills-driven development. For example, RALExILA focuses on building national registries for adult learning, JUST4ALL promotes a just transition through inclusive lifelong learning, and ADULTDIGITALUP enhances digital skills across Cyprus. These initiatives reinforce CARDET’s commitment to fostering innovation in lifelong learning and supporting policies that empower adult learners.

    CARDET’s leadership in adult education and lifelong learning is demonstrated through its ongoing work to drive collaboration, advance European policies, and implement projects that equip individuals with the skills they need to thrive in a dynamic, technology-driven world.

     

    CARDET Hosts Transnational Project Meeting for JUST4ALL, Featuring Partner Up Project Presentation

    On November 13th and 14th, CARDET proudly hosted the Transnational Project Meeting (TPM) for the JUST4ALL project in Cyprus. This significant event brought together European partners committed to advancing innovative and inclusive Adult Learning and Education (ALE) models. The meeting offered an invaluable platform for collaboration, helping to propel the project’s mission of fostering an inclusive recovery and supporting Europe’s digital and green transitions.

    The JUST4ALL initiative empowers migrants, women, and low-skilled adults, ensuring they become active participants in the societal shifts brought on by digitalization and environmental transformation. The project aims to create equitable educational pathways and promote an inclusive transition by prioritising these groups.

    In addition to discussing the progress of the JUST4ALL project, the meeting also featured a special mention of the PartnerUp project. This initiative, which focuses on strengthening social inclusion through innovative education and skills development, aligns perfectly with JUST4ALL’s goals. PartnerUp aims to create partnerships across sectors to enhance opportunities for marginalized groups, particularly in the context of adult learning and professional growth.

    The event reaffirmed the commitment of all stakeholders to fostering sustainable and just educational models that address the diverse needs of adult learners. The PartnerUp project’s successful presentation further showcased European partners’ ongoing collaboration and dedication in creating impactful, inclusive education opportunities.

     

    Transforming Education: PartnerUp Project Featured at XR Women Final Conference

    On November 28th, CARDET hosted the final conference of the XR Women project, marking the conclusion of two years of innovative efforts aimed at enhancing language learning and social inclusion through Extended Reality (XR) technologies.

    The event brought together educators, students, and researchers to discuss the transformative impact of XR tools in education. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the project’s free resources through interactive demonstrations, while the keynote address by Dr. Chris Christou from the University of Nicosia highlighted how XR technologies are fostering inclusivity in educational environments.

    A key feature of the event was the presentation of the PartnerUp project, a complementary initiative that aligns with the European Skills Agenda and the Upskilling Pathways Recommendation. PartnerUp focuses on improving adult learners’ access to lifelong learning by fostering cooperation among stakeholders, analyzing gaps in existing mechanisms, and developing strategies for effective stakeholder engagement.

    The objectives of the PartnerUp project include facilitating peer learning across countries, evaluating existing collaboration mechanisms, and creating tailored implementation plans to engage stakeholders effectively. These efforts aim to address the pressing need for inclusive educational strategies, particularly for individuals with limited access to basic skills training and lifelong learning opportunities. PartnerUp not only supports the Upskilling Pathways Recommendation but also strengthens ties with the European Skills Agenda and the Renewed Agenda for Adult Learning, contributing to a cohesive and inclusive framework for education in Europe.

    The conference provided a platform to celebrate achievements and discuss future pathways for advancing education and inclusion through collaboration and cutting-edge technology. XR Women and PartnerUp Projects highlight the importance of innovative approaches in overcoming barriers to education and fostering a more inclusive, skill-oriented society.

     

    Advancing Participatory Democracy: A Call for Lifelong Learning and Digital Literacy

    On November 20, 2024, the Office of the Commissioner for Citizens and CARDET hosted an open discussion titled “Opening the Dialogue in Democracy” at the Presidential Palace. The event focused on the critical role of lifelong learning and digital literacy in fostering a more inclusive and participatory democracy. Bringing together President Nikos Christodoulides, government officials, community organizations, and citizens, the discussion explored strategies to strengthen democratic engagement.

    President Christodoulides emphasized the need for transparent governance and stronger collaboration between the state and civil society. Panayiotis Palates, the Commissioner for Citizens, highlighted that democracy thrives when citizens actively participate—requiring accessible tools, knowledge, and digital platforms to enable meaningful engagement. Discussions also addressed advancements in e-governance, with Mr. Nikolas Mousoulides from the Ministry of Labor announcing a new platform set to launch in 2025 to enhance digital accessibility and public interaction.

    Addressing the Digital Divide

    A significant concern raised during the event was the exclusion many adults experience due to limited digital literacy skills. In today’s digital age, this gap hinders citizens from fully participating in democratic processes, such as accessing government services or contributing to online consultations.

    Dr. Elena Papamichael, representing the Ministry of Education, underscored the importance of integrating human rights and democratic citizenship education into school curricula to ensure young people develop a strong understanding of their civic responsibilities. She also stressed that this education must extend beyond formal schooling. Lifelong learning is essential to prepare adults, especially those who previously lacked access to such opportunities, to engage meaningfully in democracy.

    Partner UP: Bridging Gaps Through Collaboration

    In this context, the Partner UP project plays a vital role by advancing the implementation of Upskilling Pathways. This initiative equips adult learners with essential skills and fosters greater participation in lifelong learning opportunities. These efforts align with the European Skills Agenda and the Renewed Agenda for Adult Learning, advocating for strategies to empower adults with foundational skills for personal growth and civic engagement. The project’s emphasis on cross-sector collaboration highlights its potential to address the digital and educational divides that inhibit active democratic participation.

    Dr. Olivia Patsalidou from the Pancyprian Coordinating Council for Volunteering reinforced the importance of supporting NGOs and fostering citizen engagement through digital tools. She highlighted how lifelong learning initiatives like Partner UP provide a collaborative framework between civil society and government, ensuring a unified approach to building skills and promoting inclusivity.

    A Call to Action

    The discussion concluded with a collective call to action for citizens and the state to invest in creating a more inclusive, transparent, and participatory democratic process. A key takeaway was the recognition that lifelong learning and digital literacy are critical to ensuring every citizen’s voice is heard. By addressing gaps in education and digital access, initiatives like Partner UP lay the groundwork for a vibrant, inclusive democracy that reflects the diversity of its society.

     

    Partner UP Project Wraps Up with Final TPM in Brussels

    Partner UP Project Wraps Up with Final TPM in Brussels

    The Partner UP Project, an EU initiative aimed at improving Upskilling Pathways for adult learners, held its final Transnational Project Meeting (TPM) on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, in Brussels. The meeting brought together stakeholders from across Europe to discuss strategies for increasing adult participation in lifelong learning and enhancing cooperation under the European Skills Agenda.

    The event featured two keynote speeches from leading experts in skills development. Ann Branch, Head of Unit for the European Skills Agenda at DG EMPL (European Commission), emphasized the crucial role of upskilling and reskilling in maintaining Europe’s global competitiveness. Laura Reznikova from the OECD shared key insights from the OECD’s ongoing study on stakeholder cooperation, offering valuable data and recommendations to strengthen collaboration in the adult learning sector.

    The Partner UP Project has made significant progress in supporting the European Commission’s Upskilling Pathways Recommendation, which aims to provide adults with access to personalized learning opportunities. The project has fostered collaborations that not only benefit adult learners but also contribute to the broader goals of the European Skills Agenda.

    As the meeting concluded, participants reflected on the achievements of the Partner UP Project and the future of upskilling in Europe. The gathering provided an important platform for peer learning, stakeholder engagement, and partnership-building, with key discussions on stakeholder mapping, outreach strategies, and cross-sector cooperation, all essential for the successful implementation of Upskilling Pathways.

     

    LIMASSOL BOOK FESTIVAL

    CARDET Highlights the Partner UP Project at the Limassol Book Fair 2024

    CARDET showcased the Partner UP Project at the 3rd Limassol International Book Fair, held from November 22-24, 2024, at the Lanitis Carob Mill. This vibrant event brought together publishers, educators, and policymakers across Europe and the Middle East to exchange ideas on literacy and digital education. CARDET’s presence underscored its commitment to promoting digital literacy, lifelong learning, and essential skills development for the modern era.

    CARDET Executive Director, Dr. Charalambos Vrasidas, delivered a lecture titled “Artificial Intelligence, Literacy, and Life Skills”. An important aspect of the presentation was the Partner UP Project, an initiative aimed at advancing the implementation of Upskilling Pathways for adult learners. The project seeks to increase engagement in lifelong learning opportunities and bolster the European Skills Agenda by fostering cross-sector collaboration. Partner UP aligns with the Renewed Agenda for Adult Learning, addressing the growing need for foundational skills and continuous education. By building partnerships among educators, policymakers, and organisations, the project strives to create sustainable frameworks for lifelong learning.

    Following Dr. Vrasidas’s lecture, a panel discussion titled “Emerging Digital Skills in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” featured Dr. Vrasidas alongside other professionals in the field. During the discussion, they highlighted the importance of national libraries, particularly Cypriot libraries, in promoting digital skills and achieving sustainable development goals. Dr Vrasidas underscored the far-reaching impact of the Partner UP Project, emphasising how the initiative equips adult learners with digital and foundational skills, enabling them to thrive in an AI-driven world. Dr. Vrasidas also stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration, explaining how Partner UP bridges gaps in education and skill-building while aligning with European policies.

    The Limassol Book Fair provided an opportunity to showcase the importance of lifelong learning as a cornerstone for personal and societal growth. Through interactive discussions, workshops, and networking, CARDET reaffirmed its commitment to supporting accessible and inclusive education, highlighting the significance of continuous skill development in an ever-evolving global landscape.

    New Erasmus+ Programme Guide 2024: Prioritizing Adult Education

    The European Commission has released the Erasmus+ Programme Guide 2024, emphasizing adult education, inclusion and diversity, and digital transformation as key priorities. The guide offers invaluable opportunities for organizations and individuals to strengthen education, training, and cooperation across Europe, highlighting the critical role of lifelong learning in addressing social and economic challenges.

    The general objective of the Erasmus+ Programme is to support, through lifelong learning, the educational, professional and personal development of people in education, training, youth and sport, in Europe and beyond thereby contributing to sustainable growth, quality jobs and social cohesion, to driving innovation, and to strengthening European identity and active citizenship. As such, the Programme shall be a key instrument for building the European Education Area, supporting the implementation of the European strategic cooperation in the field of education and training with its underlying sectoral agendas. In addition, it is key in advancing youth policy cooperation under the European Union Youth Strategy 2019-2027 and developing the European dimension in sport.

    Adult Education for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth

    Adult education is pivotal in promoting inclusivity, enhancing skills, and equipping individuals to navigate rapidly evolving environments. The 2024 guide introduces funding opportunities, collaborative projects, and innovative learning methods that empower learners and educators. From advancing digital literacy to fostering professional growth, the guide underscores Erasmus+’s commitment to equipping adults with the skills and knowledge needed for personal and societal advancement.

    Comprehensive Support for Diverse Stakeholders
    The guide provides detailed insights into funding options, application procedures, and activity guidelines. It is essential for stakeholders, including students, educators, organisations, and policymakers. It simplifies the application process and enables participants to leverage Erasmus+ initiatives effectively.

    Showcasing Success: The Partner UP Project
    A standout example of Erasmus+ in action is the Partner UP project, which exemplifies the programme’s mission of fostering collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and capacity-building. This initiative demonstrates how Erasmus+ funding can drive innovation, support sustainable practices, and strengthen adult education ecosystems.

    By integrating such impactful projects, the Erasmus+ Programme Guide 2024 lays a roadmap for addressing the unique challenges of adult education, including inclusivity, employability, and lifelong learning. The guide is a cornerstone for organisations and individuals seeking to transform European education and training.

    For more details and to download the guide, visit the official website: erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/erasmus-programme-guide