National implementation in Germany by VHS Cham

We are trilled to share results of the Citizens Xelerator Pilot Action and Citizens Xelerator Igniting Events, successfully delivered by VHS Cham, in Germany.

This national implementation phase brought together a diverse group of individuals for a range of activities aimed at fostering active citizen participation.

Capacity Building for Adult Education Professionals

A Capacity Building Session specifically designed for adult education professionals took place in a single 5-hour session, with 11 participants actively engaging in the learning experience. This session provided a detailed overview of the methods and tools that can be implemented in adult education, equipping professionals with new strategies for integrating sustainability and innovation into their teaching.

Citizens Xelerator Action Labs

The Citizens Xelerator Action Labs played a pivotal role in engaging local citizens, with several key activities designed to encourage creativity and practical action. The Action Labs were composed of:

1) Two “Think Tank Brainstorming” sessions with 27 participants, where two actionable ideas were identified.

2) Five “Create Your Action” activities with 43 participants, exploring real-world topics such as:

  • Europe through Seniors’ Eyes
  • Bavarian Dialect
  • Bavarian Culture for Foreigners
  • Photo Project: How Do You See the Landkreis Cham?
  • Sustainability at VHS Cham

3) Two “Citizens Xelerator Days”, which were celebrated around German Diversity Day and European Language Day, bringing together 17 participants to explore and celebrate the diversity of the region, fostering intercultural understanding and dialogue.

4) Twenty five “Microlearning Sessions”, reaching a total of 205 participants. These short, impactful sessions focused on topics critical to fostering an inclusive, sustainable future, as well as providing participants with essential skills and knowledge to navigate today’s complex societal challenges:

  • Health Literacy
  • Diversity and Inclusion Awareness
  • Intercultural Competence
  • Social Empathy
  • Career Management Skills
  • Digital Literacy
  • Media and Information Literacy
  • Financial Literacy

5) The “LifeComp Cards” were used by more than 37 participants engaging in at least four occasions. The LifeComp Cards have proven to be an invaluable tool in building critical competencies such as social and civic engagement, cultural awareness, and the development of a responsible digital identity.

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: 

  • 19 participants from various groups including VET providers, NGOs, trainers, counselors, policy makers, etc.
  • participants came from 5 different organizations related to the VET sector and civic society. 

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