Workshop 2 from the InterGenic project

InterGenic Project: Advancing Green and Digital Skills Through Intergenerational Collaboration

The second workshop of the InterGenic project brought together participants from Austria, Cyprus, Greece, Spain, Ireland, Belgium, and Romania, continuing its mission to foster intergenerational learning and mentorship. This initiative is a significant step toward supporting the green and digital sustainable transition within the European Union, aligning with the EU’s vision for a more inclusive and innovative future.

During this workshop, the consortium of InterGenic collaborated to refine and enhance a range of educational materials. These resources are designed to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and skills between young people and seniors, strengthening the ties between generations while addressing pressing environmental and digital challenges.

Topics Addressed

A wide array of topics was covered to support participants in tackling key areas of sustainable development. These included:

• Sustainable Agriculture: Exploring traditional agricultural practices, their evolution, and modern challenges, including climate change and resource depletion.

• Traditional and Sustainable Crafts: Reviving traditional craftsmanship and addressing modern sustainability challenges, such as resource scarcity and industrialization.

• Sustainable Architecture: Examining traditional sustainable building techniques, modern architecture's environmental footprint, and EU policies promoting energy-efficient buildings.

• Water Management: Learning about historical water management practices, modern infrastructure developments, and strategies for addressing water scarcity and pollution.

• Internet Safety and Digital Skills: Educating participants on protecting personal data, safe online transactions, and leveraging digital tools to enhance daily life and creativity.

• Intergenerational Learning and Mentorship: Fostering mutual understanding and respect by exchanging knowledge and skills between generations, with a focus on communication and mentorship techniques.

These topics form the foundation for the workshops that will be delivered in the next phases of the project. The focus remains on equipping young people with the tools to mentor seniors in digital skills while seniors share their expertise in green sustainable practices.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming period will see a series of workshops taking place across all participating countries during the winter and spring of 2025. These workshops aim to create a reciprocal learning environment where intergenerational exchange flourishes. Young participants will guide seniors in mastering essential digital competencies, such as using online tools effectively, managing personal data, and maintaining cybersecurity. Meanwhile, seniors will pass down their invaluable knowledge in areas like sustainable food systems, traditional crafts, and eco-friendly practices.

By combining digital innovation with green expertise, these workshops aim to empower communities to contribute to a more sustainable and connected Europe. The emphasis on mutual learning and collaboration ensures that both generations benefit from this unique educational approach.

Building Bridges for a Sustainable Future

The InterGenic project continues to set a benchmark for innovative intergenerational learning. It not only addresses the EU’s priorities for a green and digital transition but also fosters deeper understanding and cooperation between different age groups. As the workshops unfold across Europe, they are expected to inspire similar initiatives and highlight the immense potential of intergenerational collaboration in shaping a sustainable future.

Stay tuned for updates as InterGenic progresses and transforms the way we learn, teach, and work together to build a better tomorrow.