Project News & Events

The EmpowerVET project continues to redefine vocational education and training (VET) by integrating innovative, learner-centered methodologies with real-world experiences. One of the most impactful activities within the project was the international student training held in Spain, combining Design Thinking with an immersive journey along the Camino de Santiago. This unique approach transformed a traditional mobility activity into a high-value learning experience, where education moved beyond the classroom into a dynamic, experiential environment. The training officially began at IES Ribeira do Louro, where students from different countries gathered to engage in team-building and project orientation activities. From the outset, the focus was clear: fostering collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Students were introduced to the core principles of Design Thinking—empathy, problem definition, ideation, prototyping, and testing—laying the foundation for the entire learning journey. What made this training particularly distinctive was its structure. Instead of limiting activities to a static setting, the programme was designed to unfold along the Camino de Santiago. This strategic decision created a powerful learning ecosystem where participants could connect theory with practice in real-time. As students moved through the different stages of the journey, they simultaneously progressed through the phases of Design Thinking. During the second day, which combined a maritime route and a short walking segment from Vilanova de Arousa to Padrón, students engaged in brainstorming sessions inspired by nature. The surrounding environment was not just a backdrop—it became a catalyst for innovation. Participants were encouraged to observe, reflect, and identify sustainability challenges, generating ideas that were both creative and grounded in real-life contexts. The third day marked a shift from ideation to prototyping. As students continued along the Camino, they began transforming their ideas into tangible concepts. This hands-on approach emphasized rapid experimentation and adaptability. Using simple materials and leveraging the immediate environment, teams developed low-fidelity prototypes, testing assumptions and refining their solutions continuously. This phase demonstrated the value of learning-by-doing, a cornerstone of modern VET systems. Testing and validation took place during the fourth day, as students approached Santiago de Compostela. In a real-world setting, participants presented their ideas informally, gathered feedback, and iterated their solutions. This immediate feedback loop enhanced critical thinking and reinforced the importance of user-centered design. The process not only improved the quality of the outcomes but also strengthened students’ confidence in communicating their ideas effectively. The training concluded with formal project presentations back at the hosting institution. Each team showcased their developed solutions, highlighting the journey from problem identification to validated prototype. The final session included peer feedback and reflection, consolidating the learning outcomes and ensuring knowledge transfer among participants. From a strategic perspective, this activity delivered multiple layers of impact. First, it enhanced students’ transversal skills, including teamwork, communication, and creativity. Second, it strengthened teachers’ capacity to implement innovative pedagogical approaches, as they actively participated as facilitators and observers throughout the process. Third, it contributed to the internationalisation of VET by fostering cross-cultural collaboration and exchange of practices. Moreover, the integration of limited technology use during the activity encouraged participants to disconnect from digital distractions and engage more deeply with the learning process. This intentional design element supported focus, reflection, and authentic interaction—factors often overlooked in traditional training formats. In conclusion, the EmpowerVET student training exemplifies how vocational education can evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. By combining experiential learning, Design Thinking, and international mobility, the project delivers a scalable model for modern VET systems. The Camino de Santiago was not just a route—it became a learning pathway, where students developed not only professional competences but also a broader mindset oriented towards innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. EmpowerVET continues to demonstrate that when education is designed with purpose and creativity, the results go far beyond expected outcomes. Disclaimer Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

The EmpowerVET partnership continues to advance its mission of strengthening key competences and entrepreneurial skills within vocational education in Albania. Following an intensive period of proposal writing and project activities across the consortium, partners recently held an important coordination meeting to discuss progress and ensure alignment on the next project milestones. The meeting was organized with two primary objectives: to prepare for the upcoming interim report and to review ongoing activities related to student entrepreneurship initiatives and project dissemination. As the reporting deadline approaches, coordination among partners has become particularly important to ensure that all project achievements are properly documented and communicated. A key topic of discussion during the meeting was dissemination and communication activities carried out by each partner institution. Within Erasmus+ projects, dissemination plays a vital role in ensuring that project results reach a broader audience and contribute to systemic impact. Each partner is expected to conduct at least two dissemination activities during the reporting period. These activities may include internal meetings, presentations to colleagues or students, networking events, or any opportunity where the project was introduced or discussed. Partners were reminded to document each activity clearly using the provided reporting template. For each event or communication action, a short description in bullet points should outline what took place, who participated, and how the EmpowerVET project was presented. These reports will form part of the official project documentation submitted to the European Commission. In addition to dissemination reporting, the consortium also discussed the planning of upcoming project activities. Particular attention was given to the organization of the course for Albanian students that will take place in Spain. This mobility activity is expected to play a significant role in strengthening entrepreneurial learning and international exposure for participating students. Another important discussion point was the status of pilot entrepreneurship projects currently being implemented in Albania. These initiatives aim to encourage students to develop innovative ideas and practical business concepts as part of the EmpowerVET learning approach. Partners were invited to share updates on the development of these activities and to present examples of ongoing work within their institutions. The EmpowerVET project places strong emphasis on innovative teaching methodologies, international cooperation, and practical learning experiences. Earlier activities within the project, including the Train-the-Trainers course in Göttingen, Germany, introduced educators to entrepreneurship education and collaborative problem-solving approaches designed for vocational education environments. As the project moves forward, continued collaboration among partners will remain essential to ensure high-quality implementation and meaningful impact. Through regular coordination meetings, transparent reporting, and active dissemination, the consortium aims to maximize the value of the EmpowerVET initiative for students, teachers, and vocational education institutions across the region. The upcoming reporting period will be an important opportunity to highlight the achievements of the partnership and demonstrate how EmpowerVET is contributing to the development of entrepreneurial skills and innovative learning practices within vocational education. Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

Effective communication is not a peripheral activity in an Erasmus+ project—it is a core delivery mechanism that directly influences impact, sustainability, and stakeholder uptake. The Communication Activities deliverable has been designed as a structured, results-oriented framework that ensures project achievements are visible, understandable, and reusable by all relevant audiences, from learners and educators to policymakers and industry partners. From the outset, communication activities have been strategically aligned with the project’s objectives and target groups. The project website serves as the central information hub, continuously updated with key deliverables, news, events, and results. It functions not only as a repository of outputs but as a living platform that demonstrates progress, transparency, and EU added value over time. Complementing the website, social media channels (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram) are actively used to amplify reach and engagement. These channels enable the timely dissemination of milestones, training activities, events, and success stories while also fostering two-way interaction with the wider community. Content is adapted to each platform to maximize visibility, relevance, and user engagement. A strong visual identity underpins all communication actions. Logos, templates, promotional materials, and branded content ensure consistency and professional presentation across digital and physical channels. This coherent branding strengthens project recognition and reinforces credibility among stakeholders and institutions. Newsletters and press-oriented content further extend outreach. Periodic newsletters consolidate achievements, highlight progress, and provide concise updates to stakeholders, while blog articles and media publications translate technical outputs into accessible narratives for broader audiences. These tools support both the dissemination and exploitation of results. Face-to-face dissemination remains equally critical. Events with students, teachers, enterprises, and institutional actors enable direct knowledge transfer, validation of results, and meaningful stakeholder engagement. These interactions ensure that project outputs respond to real needs and are embedded in practice. In parallel, targeted policy communication ensures that results reach decision-makers and relevant authorities, supporting long-term sustainability and potential scaling at the system level. In summary, the Communication Activities deliverable demonstrates a proactive, multi-channel, and impact-driven approach. It ensures that project results do not remain static outputs, but become visible assets that inform practice, influence policy, and create lasting value well beyond the project duration. Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

In September 2025, Juljan Kasapi, Project Manager of the Vocational School of Elbasan, held a strategic coordination meeting with the teaching staff to provide a comprehensive update on the implementation of the EmpowerVET project. During the meeting, Mr. Kasapi presented the current progress of the project, highlighting key milestones achieved to date and outlining the upcoming phases of implementation. The discussion focused on how EmpowerVET is contributing to the modernization of vocational education and training through the enhancement of key competences, entrepreneurship education, and innovative teaching and learning approaches. A core objective of the meeting was to ensure alignment between the project’s strategic goals and the active involvement of teachers as key change agents within the school ecosystem. Teachers were informed about their role in piloting new methodologies, integrating project outcomes into daily teaching practice, and contributing to the long-term sustainability of project results. In addition, Mr. Kasapi strongly encouraged teachers to apply for participation in the upcoming international Train-the-Trainers programme scheduled to take place in December in Göttingen, Germany. This mobility activity represents a significant professional development opportunity, enabling participants to engage with European peers, exchange best practices, and strengthen their competences in entrepreneurship education, sustainability, and innovative pedagogy. The meeting concluded with an open discussion, where teachers expressed interest in the training opportunity and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the EmpowerVET project. This internal engagement marks a critical step in ensuring effective project implementation and maximizing its impact at institutional level. Through continuous communication, capacity building, and international cooperation, EmpowerVET continues to empower educators and strengthen the future of vocational education in Albania. Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

The EmpowerVET project website serves as the central digital hub for all communication, engagement, and knowledge-sharing activities throughout the project lifecycle. Designed as a modern, user-friendly, and fully accessible platform, it ensures transparency, visibility, and easy access to project results for stakeholders across Albania and Europe. Built in line with Erasmus+ communication standards, the website hosts all key project deliverables, updates, training resources, and promotional materials. It functions as the primary gateway for educators, students, policymakers, and partner institutions to engage with the project, track progress, and download open-access materials. Key Features and Functions 1. Dynamic News & UpdatesRegular posts highlight major milestones, events, workshops, piloting phases, and results. This keeps stakeholders informed and strengthens the project’s public visibility. 2. Repository of DeliverablesAll public deliverables—research reports, curricula, training modules, policy briefs, newsletters, and promotional materials—are available for download, ensuring open access and transparency. 3. Dedicated Sections for Each Work PackageClear navigation allows visitors to follow the development, piloting, and dissemination activities undertaken by each WP, from research and curriculum development to capacity building and sustainability. 4. Visual Identity & Media LibraryA curated collection of photos, videos, infographics, and branded materials supports partners in communication activities and showcases real project impact across institutions. 5. Partner Institution ProfilesDetailed profiles highlight the roles, expertise, and contributions of each consortium member, reinforcing cross-country collaboration and European cooperation. 6. Stakeholder Engagement & Contact PortalAn integrated contact form and partner directory enable meaningful collaboration with businesses, VET providers, policymakers, and community actors interested in joining EmpowerVET initiatives. 7. Analytics & MonitoringWebsite performance is monitored regularly—tracking visitors, downloads, and engagement—to measure dissemination impact. The project aims to reach 5,000+ visits by the end of the implementation period. Long-Term Access & Sustainability Beyond the project’s duration, the website will remain active as a permanent repository of teaching materials, research outputs, and policy recommendations. It will continue to serve as an open learning environment for VET teachers, students, and institutions, supporting future Erasmus+ collaborations and national VET reforms. Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.