Author: Hanna Yerega

Fostering edupreneurship to embrace learners’ diversity

EduChampions Partners Meet for the Fourth Time in Bursa

Written by Hanna Yerega on 05/06/2024. Posted in Project News.

The EduChampions project has successfully completed its 4th Transnational Partner Meeting in Bursa, Turkey, marking yet another milestone in the project’s pursuit of nourishing the entrepreneurial mindset and empowering educators to become champions for change. The meeting primarily focused on the recent project outputs that aim to equip teachers to better address diversity of learning preferences and styles through a combination of learner-centered pedagogies and purposefully used educational technologies.

In particular, the partners discussed the effectiveness of the materials and resources developed so far, as well as offered constructive feedback, before the project finalises and incorporates the results of 8 pilot sessions that brought together over 80 edupreneurs across Europe – all in a bid to deliver high-quality materials readily available for all. In fact, the pilots have been a cornerstone of EduChampion’s strategy, demonstrating practical applications of the Universal Design for Learning principles, as well as allowing the project to simultaneously address specific local needs and particularities.

Overall, the meeting served as a testament to the collaborative spirit that drives the project, emphasising the importance of teamwork and shared vision in achieving our educational goals and as EduChampions continues to strive for excellence in promoting educational entrepreneurship, we invite you to join in on this empowering initiative. Check out more information about EduChampions project here.

ICWE – Informal Carers Well-Being EnhancedICWE –

Written by Hanna Yerega on 04/06/2024. Posted in Projects & Initiatives.

With the growing trends in the ageing population and life expectancy and the flaws and gaps of the long-term care system in Europe, the ICWE project focuses on Informal Carers’ well-being and support for information and practical skills to facilitate their role as caretakers. The ICWE project aims to enhance the well-being of caregivers by providing them with assistance, offering practical tools, and proposing new solutions to balance personal and professional life. Often, the caregiving role involves sacrificing better-paying jobs or access to optimal educational paths. Additionally, the project aims to improve the skills of those working with informal caregivers, such as nurses, doctors, and social workers.

Teamwork2 Shares Its Updates in the Second Newsletter

Written by Hanna Yerega on 03/06/2024. Posted in Project News.

Teamwork2, dedicated to addressing workplace sexual harassment, is excited to announce its latest developments to combat this widespread and under-reported gender-based violence across the EU, in its second newsletter.

As the project partners continue their efforts of stakeholder engagement and awareness raising on combating workplace sexual harassment, a comprehensive package of eLearning modules is now available on the project’s website. The materials target the existing need for capacity building and include the legal frameworks of each country participating, as well as the Guidelines and Seminar Curriculum to further assist coalition building and interagency collaboration across different organisations.

To learn more about this and other milestones, check out the newsletter below.

EcoSTEAM Study Visit to Promote Environmental Consciousness in Education

Written by Hanna Yerega on 31/05/2024. Posted in Project News.

The EcoSTEAM project proudly announces the successful completion of an immersive study visit at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa’s Büyükçekmece Campus taking place between 27th and 32st of May. This event, focused on integrating environmental education with STEAM, brought together teachers and students from Lithuania, Cyprus, North Macedonia, and Turkey and provided an invaluable opportunity for attendees to contribute to and understand the importance of environmental awareness in secondary education, as well as to test the latest teaching and learning materials developed under this ambitious initiative.

Representing Cyprus, two STEAM educators and three students from Lighthouse Private School in Limassol took part in this insightful visit. The five-day program offered a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application through interactive workshops, fieldwork, science experiments, design thinking sessions, and environmental advocacy role-plays. Key themes included Environmental Awareness and Conservation, Creative and Critical Thinking in EcoSTEAM Education, Collaboration and Communication in EcoSTEAM Projects, and Global and Local Perspectives in Environmental Education.

Students engaged actively in discussions, group projects, and critical thinking exercises to tackle environmental challenges. In addition, this occasion provided a great platform for cultural exchange, improving their language skills, cultural awareness, and understanding of environmental issues in the context of global citizenship. Meanwhile, teachers served as facilitators and participants, providing valuable feedback on the lesson plans proposed by the EcoSTEAM initiative. Their insights will enhance the upcoming adaptation and local implementation of these materials in partner countries.

The EcoSTEAM study visit exemplifies a progressive approach to embedding environmental consciousness in education, empowering the next generation to address global environmental challenges through innovative, hands-on pedagogical practices. The event also provided exceptional professional development in environmental education and non-formal teaching methods, offering new perspectives on STEAM education for both students and teachers. It also fostered a network of educators committed to EcoSTEAM education, paving the way for long-term partnerships and collaboration.

SOOS – SOns Of Silence

Written by Hanna Yerega on 27/05/2024. Posted in Projects & Initiatives.

The aim of the SOOS project is to raise awareness about the potential impact of domestic violence (DV) on youth and to highlight the risks of experiencing DV and its potential effects on the physical, emotional, and psychological health of youth. The SOOS project also aims to provide resources and support to those affected by DV and to educate the public on preventative measures. Ultimately, SOOS project endeavours to reduce the prevalence of DV in our society and create safer and healthier environments for young people.

Building Bridges: MOVE Youth Lab on Immigration and Youth in Europe

Written by Hanna Yerega on 27/05/2024. Posted in Project News.

The MOVE Youth Lab, an innovative workshop focusing on immigration and youth in Europe, was held on Saturday, May 25, at the historic Ledra Palace in Nicosia with an overarching goal of promoting inclusivity and EU values among the youth, as well as engaging immigrants and refugees through gamification techniques.

Joined by over 20 participants, including VET professionals, immigrants, youth workers, and politicians, the workshop aimed to equip all attendees with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster inclusivity and EU values, utilising a tailored Training Guide created as part of the MOVE project. In particular, the participants were introduced to the MOVE GUIDES and engaged in various non-formal educational activities designed to enhance understanding and practice of these values. Notable activities included “Who I Am,” “Step Forward,” and “Human Bingo for EU Values,” each offering interactive and engaging ways to explore themes of identity, diversity, and European integration.

In addition to these activities, the workshop featured a brief presentation outlining the objectives and goals of the MOVE project, along with an explanation of the OCA game, another key development of this initiative. This combination of theoretical and practical elements provided participants with comprehensive insights into diversity and its practical applications in promoting inclusivity among immigrants and refugees.

Besides reporting high levels of satisfaction with the workshop’s organisation, methodology, and content, the participants also had a chance to offer constructive feedback, suggesting the inclusion of more visual aids and interactive elements, such as roleplays, to further enhance the learning experience. This positive feedback and suggestions for improvement will certainly serve an instrumental role in refining and finalising MOVE’s materials, before they become available on the project’s website.

Video Teach Announces Its Online Video Course in its Latest Newsletter

Written by Hanna Yerega on 21/05/2024. Posted in Project News.

Developing innovative video competencies for teachers is a crucial step toward modernising education and preparing students for the challenges of the future. By embracing visual learning, real-world applications, and effective communication, our Video Teach project aims to facilitate educators in creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to technological integration, the education system can even play an important role in shaping the next generation of environmentally conscious professionals!

So what progress has Video Teach made since its kick-off, you might ask?

Check out the latest Video Teach newsletter below and learn about all the latest developments of the project, including the exciting announcement of the free Online Video Course and Self-Assessment Methodology tool, amongst other news.

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

Celebrating Cultural Diversity: A pathway to peace, dialogue and development

Written by Hanna Yerega on 21/05/2024. Posted in Blog.

“It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences.” — Audre Lorde

Today, we join the United Nations, in commemorating the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. On this occasion, we not only strive to celebrate the incredible richness of cultures around the globe, but also turn our attention to the astounding potential open intercultural dialogue holds in achieving peace and promoting sustainable development.

In particular, with the prominent adoptions of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by the UN, and the Resolution on Culture and Sustainable Development by the UN General Assembly, the message of the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is ever so important. Embracing and celebrating the commonalities, as well as differences, holds the key to more enriching conversations, innovative solutions, as well as a more inclusive and thriving society all in all. In case you still aren’t sure how so, we invite you to read on.

Understanding the Fabric of Cultural Diversity

By definition, cultural diversity encompasses the differences in language, traditions, customs, beliefs, and values among people from various backgrounds. It represents the elements that bring together the unique identities of individuals and as a result form a more vibrant society as a whole. Cultural diversity is essential in promoting mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration among different groups.

But how does cultural diversity help foster peace dialogue and development across the cornerstones of the EU? Let’s take a closer look.

Cultural Dialogue For Peace & Development

Dialogue is the principal base for understanding and cooperation, and while many consider cultural diversity as a roadblock to clear understanding and agreement, in reality it’s a critical element in enhancing productive and meaningful conversation. In fact, cultural diversity facilitates dialogue and understading that promotes peace and conflict resolution, as well as encourages sustainable development and growth.

1. Building Mutual Respect and Understanding

Cultural diversity fosters an environment where different perspectives are acknowledged and respected. Exposure to diverse cultures helps individuals understand and appreciate differences and can help to substantially reduce prejudices and stereotypes. When we engage with people from diverse backgrounds, we gain insights into their worldviews, which can challenge our assumptions and expand our thinking. Through dialogue, we can enrich our understanding, practice critical thinking, as well as learn from each other’s experience, to promote a more open-minded society.

2. Shaping Great Communicators

Diverse cultural backgrounds bring varied communication styles and conflict-resolution strategies. By incorporating these different approaches, communities and organisations can develop more effective and inclusive methods of dialogue. Through intercultural dialogue, we learn to navigate language barriers, non-verbal cues, and different communication styles, making us more effective communicators. This enhanced communication is crucial for resolving misunderstandings and exploring the opportunities for more effective cooperation that are necessary to combat global challenges, such as climate change.

3. Promoting Inclusive Governance

Inclusion of diverse cultural groups in governance and decision-making processes ensures that the needs and concerns of all community members are addressed. This inclusivity can prevent feelings of marginalisation and exclusion, which are often root causes of conflict. Embracing cultural diversity can also lead to more inclusive solutions towards sustainability, economic development and tackling societal challenges. When all society members are represented and included, the impact of such initiatives is also more likely to be magnified across all facets of society.

4. Fostering Innovation and Problem-Solving

Cultural diversity brings together a wide range of perspectives, ideas, and problem-solving approaches. This diversity fuels innovation and creativity, which are essential for developing sustainable solutions to complex global challenges. In fact, diverse teams are more likely to generate unique and effective solutions that can address sustainability issues in novel ways by leveraging the different experiences, educational backgrounds, and innovative approaches.

5. Enhancing Global Citizenship & Education

Education systems that incorporate cultural diversity teach students about global citizenship, empathy, value of diversity, as well as prepare individuals to engage with global sustainability issues in a more informed and empathetic manner. In particular, culturally diverse educational institutions can encourage young people to approach differences from a place of curiosity, and result in a more defined collective identity that further fuels peace, inclusion and development. It also promotes equal access to education, work opportunities and further fosters a sense of belonging and community.

6. Supporting Global Networks

Cultural diversity encourages the formation of networks and alliances that promote peace and sustainable development on a global scale. International organisations, cultural and educational exchange programs, and transnational cooperation are strengthened by diverse perspectives, enabling collaborative efforts towards mutual goals.

Celebrate World Day for Cultural Diversity with CARDET

Let’s celebrate the spirit and values of the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development together and reap the full benefits of cultural diversity in promoting a more peaceful, inclusive and cooperative society.

13th Pancyprian Strawberry Festival in Deryneia I 24 May I Anagennisi Deryneias Stadium I 17:00

Our Intercultural integration in Cyprus team and the Civil Registry and Migration Department will be present at the annual Strawberry Festival in Deryneia to respond to questions and offer advice and guidance to migrants to help navigate and smoothen integration in Cyprus! The Info Session will take place between 17:00 to 18:00, during which we will be also sharing information and materials that will help raise awareness of the importance of cultural exchange and bridge the gap for a strong and inclusive community!

Environmental Justice, Inclusive Migration, and Tackling Misinformation I 25 May I Ledra Palace I 10:00 – 14:00

We’re excited to partner with Cyprus Youth DiplomaCY to explore the crucial concepts of Environmental Justice, Inclusive Migration, and Tackling Misinformation with young people and fellow organisations in our mutual bid to promote a brighter, more sustainable and inclusive future for all! Kick off your Saturday with an exciting event that will offer you the opportunity to join an insightful panel discussion, explore empowerment through innovation and volunteering with our GOTHEN initiative, and have fun with the Interactive MOVE Board Game which delves into migration and fosters inclusion! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn, engage, connect with like-minded individuals and make a difference! Register HERE and be a part of the movement for a better future

Reflecting on Green League’s Impactful Journey Thus Far

Written by Hanna Yerega on 10/05/2024. Posted in Project News.

Green League, a project aimed at strengthening the link between the environment and sports through experiential learning and promoting outdoor physical activity has certainly made enormous progress over the last few months. Through dedicated actions, the partners have implemented a number of activities aimed at encouraging the population to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts and of promoting healthy lives and well-being for everyone, all while using sport as a tool to generate environmental awareness while contributing to a healthier lifestyle.

In particular, the Green League project carried out 8 sports events in each partner coutry centering around four natural elements – fire, earth, water, and air. Enjoyed by all the participants, the activities certainly resulted in deeper appreciation for human impact and environment. But don’t take our word for it, check out the testimonials from all across Europe here:

Want to learn more about the Green League’s progress thus far? Don’t forget to download the newsletter below for a more detailed breakdown and, of course, keep your eye out for the upcoming Green League Local Tournaments for an opportunity to get involved! More information coming soon!

Beyond the Game: Helping Coaches Foster Inclusion in Sports & Beyond

Written by Hanna Yerega on 09/05/2024. Posted in Blog.

From improving physical health to fostering a deeper understanding of social interactions and even building self-esteem – sports play an incremental long-term role in a child’s development. However, despite its potential for positive impact, discrimination remains a persistent issue in European sports, hindering equal opportunities and perpetuating larger personal and societal concerns.

Coaches, often regarded as leaders and mentors, have a significant influence over team culture and the skill development of an athlete. Most importantly, they play an instrumental role in the lives and personality development of young athletes. They are seen as role models and hold a special position influencing the way young athletes understand and approach not only the sport they are involved in, but also key aspects and issues in society.

To that end, it’s of utmost importance to understand that their role goes beyond the physical training and helping them understand the ins and outs of their sport. It also assumes helping young players develop as individuals and become better persons. Coaches need to guide and support them to develop their ability to work in a team, show respect towards others, and internalise the values of sportsmanship, fair play and integrity. It is therefore crucial for sports professionals and coaches to help shape inclusive environments where diversity is celebrated.

To be able to do so though, it is pivotal to offer them the support and guidance to be able to foster a healthier and more sustainable community both on and off the field. A recent study by the INCLUDE project, calls for a holistic approach towards supporting coaches and promoting inclusion in sports, presenting 4 key pillars to ensure its impact.

Training Beyond Physical

Integrating soft skills training into coaching programs is essential for equipping sports professionals with the knowledge and skills to serve as frontline ambassadors of inclusion and set the tone for team dynamics to foster a supportive environment.

By being offered adequate training, seminars, workshops that emphasise strategies and tools to build respect, empathy, and acceptance, coaches can empower athletes to thrive regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or ability. Adopting resources such as the INCLUDE curriculum and toolkit can provide sports professionals with a clear direction and thorough guidance to ensure that their sport club or team is a place of acceptance that leaves no room for discrimination.

Advocating for Inclusive Policies

Inclusion in sports transcends the playing field; it also calls for a robust policy support to combat discrimination. Reviewing regulations, enacting protective laws, and implementing government incentives are essential steps toward fostering inclusivity.

Gender equality, accessibility for athletes with disabilities, and anti-discrimination measures should be central to policy discussions, ensuring a fair and equitable sporting landscape. By addressing these issues on the higher level, while also offering guidance, reporting and support mechanisms to coaches can actively help them set and adhere to anti-discriminatory standards regardless of the division, sport or age group they are working in.

Expanding Funding Towards Inclusion in Sports

Investing in programs that promote diversity and inclusion is paramount. Allocating resources to initiatives aimed at leveling the playing field and providing equal opportunities for all athletes can drive positive change. By expanding funding for inclusion initiatives and actions, we can create pathways for underrepresented groups to participate and excel in sports.

With many funding bodies turning their attention towards this issue, one key factor in deciphering discrimination is creating targeted activities, projects and campaigns. Since the issue of discrimination in sports touches upon different elements and interpretations, the initiatives need to address a multitude of challenges, while adhering closely to the overarching aim and mutual direction.

Bringing Discrimination to Light

The results of INCLUDE’s study have also emphasised the need to raise awareness about discrimination in sports as a crucial step for sparking meaningful dialogue and driving change. The coaches who took part in the study are advocating for the identification and acknowledgement of prejudice and bias within sports organisations and in society as a whole. By ensuring that these incidents are neither ignored nor minimised, but rather are addressed appropriately, we can promote positive change and cultivate a culture of accountability.

By shedding light on the issues experienced, through social media campaigns, radio and TV ads, dedicated events and presentations, we can catalyse collective efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable sporting community.

What’s Next?

It’s a question that echoes through the halls of sports organisations, coaching academies, and government institutions alike. The journey towards true inclusion in sports is ongoing, marked by both successes and challenges.

However, as we look to the future, it is apparent that continued education and training are a key driver behind any meaningful change. By fostering meaningful collaborative partnerships, empowering athletes’ voices and driving forward research and evaluation – we can collectively improve our approach to education and training and ensure a long-term impact on inclusion in sports.

About INCLUDE Project

The INCLUDE project puts forward a comprehensive program, involving research, direct action and the development of learning resources, to educate and support coaches, executives and staff of sport academies working with young athletes (12-18 years old) so that they can actively contribute in tackling discrimination in youth sports. The Erasmus+ project focuses on promoting inclusion and diversity by taking concrete action to tackle existing barriers linked to discrimination in the field of youth sport.