National implementation in Croatia by DANTE

We are proud to share the results of the Citizens Xelerator Pilot Action in Croatia and Citizens Xelerator Igniting Events successfully organized by Adult Education Institution DANTE.

This initiative made a significant impact on local communities by empowering citizens, fostering social cohesion, and promoting active civic participation.

Capacity Building for Adult Education Professionals

As part of the launch, Capacity Building for Adult Education Professionals was delivered over 2 sessions, totalling 16 hours. This training provided educators with the tools and methods necessary to engage adult learners in a variety of topics related to sustainability, social engagement, and personal empowerment. Participants shared their feedback:

💬 “The materials are very practical and adaptable. The sessions enabled learners to engage actively, collaborate, and feel empowered.”

 

Citizens Xelerator Action Labs

The Citizens Xelerator Action Labs were designed to engage local citizens in hands-on, practical activities aimed at improving their communities. The Action Labs were composed of:

  • 2 “Think Tank Brainstorming” sessions with 34 participants, resulting in 2 actionable ideas that were ready to be put into practice.
  • 2 “Create Your Action” activities, where participants had the opportunity to design and implement community-driven projects. The implemented actions included:
    1. 2 sessions focused on exploring, preserving and promoting local culture
    2. 1 session stress management and work-life balance
    3. 1 session of physical and mental wellbeing

The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive:

💬 “The short sessions were perfect for my schedule, and I learned practical tools that I can use daily.”
💬 “Learning to navigate online banking boosted my confidence. I feel more independent now.”

 

  • Two Xelerator Days celebrated European Language Day and Erasmus Days, with 49 participants, including seniors and adults with unmet literacy needs. These events showcased local learning opportunities and highlighted the importance of lifelong learning.


💬 “I didn’t know so many learning options existed! This motivated me to try something new.”

💬 “These events opened my eyes to the opportunities available and inspired me to keep learning.”

 

  • Additinaly, 11 Microlearning initiatives were carried out, reaching 114 participants. These sessions offered accessible, bite-sized learning experiences on topics essential for personal and community development. The topics covered included:
  1. Media and information Literacy (2 sessions)
  2. Financial Literacy (3 sessions)
  3. Digital Literacy (4 sessions)

These microlearning sessions were a great way for participants to quickly absorb key knowledge and immediately apply it in their personal and professional lives.

  • The LifeComp Cards, used across multiple activities, helped 20 participants build important life competencies.

 

The Citizens Xelerator Pilot Action in Croatia resounding success, bringing together diverse participants and providing opportunities for growth, empowerment, and community engagement. By addressing literacy needs, fostering a sense of agency, and celebrating learning in all its forms, the project has laid the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive society.

Citizens Xelerator Igniting Events

Our recent events have successfully advanced the goals of adult education and civic engagement. These gatherings served as dynamic platforms to disseminate information about the project and its objectives, foster collaboration and inspire civic and democratic engagement and establish valuable partnerships and expand our network.

Igniting events Agenda:

  • The online event featured sessions on project contextualization, action lab exercises, experimentation with resources, and invitations for partnerships.
  • In-person events included presentations on the project, demonstrations of the CX Model and Kit, interactive activities to develop personal and social skills, participatory discussions on citizenship-related topics, and satisfaction surveys.

Results:

  • 20 participants attended the event,
  • partner organization included: Rijeka Development Agency PORIN
  • participants included VET providers, NGOs, trainers and organisations.

Through these efforts, we have created opportunities to exchange best practices, engage stakeholders, and strengthen training and networking opportunities.