The session was an opportunity to present the Erasmus+ SMALEI – Sustainability Matrix for Adult Education Institutions – to over 80 policymakers, regional and local authority representatives and stakeholders. The event opened with a presentation from Andrea Bernert-Bürkle, Head of EU Projects, Volkshochschulverband Baden-Württemberg e.V., who discussed how and why adult education institutions can boost the green transition. One of the main points discussed was about the sphere of influence of adult education institutions and the networks these institutions have.
We as adult education institutions are known in our local communities and are seen. If we act, people see it. – Andrea Bernert-Bürkle, Head of EU Projects, Volkshochschulverband Baden-Württemberg e.V.
The SMALEI matrix was then presented as a tool that adult education institutions can use to assess and improve on their sustainability. From the Volkshochschulverband Baden-Württemberg’s perspective, “having tested it, the matrix sub-areas are really useful to help us identify specifically our areas of improvement”.
Following this presentation, Susanne Dobner, queraum, Coordinator of SEE U project, took the floor to describe the project results of the Erasmus+ project. During the project, elderly citizens were empowered to use digital skills through walking tours.
Finally, Kieran McCarthy, Cork City Council and CoR Member, presented Cork City as a Learning City and as an inspiration for intergenerational learning. He drew on successful elements in both the SEE U and SMALEI projects, outlining how Cork focused on skills development across all levels and the celebration of learning.
Text: Charlotte Ede