A step towards a more sustainable future

27 March 2024 – The main purpose of the LEAP project, supported by the Norway Grants, is to develop and demonstrate solutions for designing advanced functional packaging made from invasive plant species.

If you would like to learn more about the progress and innovation in the development of sustainable packaging you are invited to the closing event of the Learning and Demonstration Alliance for Designing and Manufacturing Sustainable Industrial Packaging from Alternative Lignocellulosic Biomass »LEAP« project.

Paper pulp preparation process.

The process of creating a prototype packaging.
© Surovina

The public presentation of the project’s achievements, which focus on the sustainable transition to a circular economy, will occur on Wednesday, 3 April 2024, between 9.00 and 11.00 at the Institute of Pulp and Paper (ICP) in Ljubljana. Registration is open until the end of March via the online form.

The LEAP project involves the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Ljubljana as the project promoter and project partners Pulp and Paper Institute, Gorenje Ltd, Surovina, Waste processing company, and SINTEF AS from Norway.

SOURCE: Project LEAP

Project BalanCed final conference

27 March 2024  – As part of the project Creative Work-life Balance – BalanCed, co-funded by the Norway Grants, a final conference entitled “With creativity to a balanced life” was held yesterday in Ljubljana.

The event was attended by representatives of ministries, public and private sector employees and experts from the culture, health, social, education and business fields. A discussion developed among participants on the importance of culture in work-life balance, good practices on new approaches and strategies for using culture and creativity in promoting work-life balance.

The moderator of the event during her speech on stage.
© BalanCed

The opening speech was given by Jadranka Plut, Head of the Financial Mechanisms Sector at the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development, who pointed out that projects of this kind are an instrument for cooperation at the national, regional, and local levels. She further explained, “Even during the Pandemic, creative and cultural content kept us company, helping us to maintain stable mental health on one hand, and community on the other. Studies have shown that people who engaged in artistic activities coped better with stress and depression. Art is not only a therapeutic tool for the individual but a power that brings people together. Through art, we can build bridges between genders or generations, and build an inclusive society.”

Anja Cerkvenik, Principal of the Centre for the Communication, the Hearing and the Speech Portorož, also gave a speech, introducing the event by saying that creativity can contribute to a harmonious life if it is channelled in the right way. She emphasised that “through creative activities, we can better understand and express feelings, find new paths and solutions and overcome obstacles. The project recognised the opportunity to offer the chance to get enthusiastic, to create with clay and other handicraft skills, and to support employees and their families to live more harmonious and peaceful lives. Thank you to all the participants in the project’s activities, the collaborators and the project partners who showed through the creative process how creativity can transform our lives, contributing to better harmony and coherence, a sense of balance and fulfilment.”

Participants listen to a speaker.
© BalanCed

Sandra Končan, Assistant from the Science and Research Centre Koper, presented the findings of the in-depth interviews conducted with 27 participants of the courses at the Creative Centre. The interviewees mostly pointed out similar feelings they experienced while working with clay: relaxation, concentration, acceptance of the situation, satisfaction, pride, and some even felt inner peace. The results of the survey showed that the workshops enabled live social interaction, which is lacking nowadays due to the rise of interaction on social networks. More than half of the interviewees said that attending the course had stimulated their creativity and artistic expression, inspired them to be more active in their free time, and most felt calm. In the results, participants reported that the skills they had learnt, such as setting boundaries, patience, listening skills and better time management, had enabled them to have a better work-life balance.

After the opening remarks and the presentation of the survey results, a panel discussion followed, where experts addressed the importance of culture and creativity for human lives and presented examples of good practice. The panel discussion was attended by Tadej Meserko from the Ministry of Culture, Jasmina Ferček from the Institute OLOOP, Prof. Dr. Andreja Avsec from the Faculty of Arts, University of Ljubljana, and Asst. Matej Vinko, Dr. med. spec. in public health, from the National Institute of Public Health.

Round table speakers during the discussion.
© BalanCed

In the last part of the conference, a workshop entitled “Clayfulness” took place. Through clay modelling, participants were able to experience creative enthusiasm through a joint reflection.

The final conference took place in the framework of the BalanCed project, co-created by the project promoter Centre for the Communication, the Hearing and the Speech Portorož and project partners NO PROBLEM ZONE, the Institute for lifelong learning, creativity and well being, NOMED, the Institute for Independent Media Activity, Association for Culture and Education PiNA and the Culture Break Borders from Norway.

Source: Projekt BalanCed

Expert conference addressing the mental health of young individuals

22 March 2024 – On Tuesday 19th March 2024 an expert conference was held in Maribor, hosted by the project partners of the TRIALOG project, which is co-financed by the Norway Grants. The event moderated by the TRIALOG project leader Tjaša Rupar from the Gender Equality Research Institute Maribor (IPES) addressed the topic of youth and mental health. The moderator especially shed light on the question, “How can I contribute?”

The expert conference was dedicated to the conclusion of the TRIALOG project, which addresses the issues and challenges of young people in the context of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Podravska region. The project focuses on the absence of social contacts, the lower social inclusion of young people, the increase of domestic violence (arguments, disagreements, physical, psychological and economic violence), the rise in the level of peer violence, including online violence and youth vandalism, the lack of support services for young people in the Podravska region, and the deterioration in young people’s self-esteem as a result of increased exposure to social media and posts by peers, influencers and strangers, which portray idealised images of their lives and bodies.

People are sitting in a room looking at a presentation on a screen where a man is giving a speech.
© MKRR

Dr. Agata Zupančič from the Ministry of Health opened the event with a keynote speech. She shared a few words introducing all the activities of the Ministry of Health related to mental health.

The conference was divided into three parts. In the first part, dr. Andrej Naterer, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Arts, University of Maribor, presented the findings of the Youth Survey (Mladina 2020). Among other things, he pointed to ways of coping with stress that used to be efficient, such as music and sports, but no longer work today because society is too competitive and, as a result, such activities have the opposite effect and cause additional stress.

At the second part a panel discussion was held, including Kaja Stropnik Eferl specialist in clinical psychology from the Mental Health Centre for Children and Adolescents Maribor, Associate Prof. dr. Rudi Klanjšek from the Faculty of Arts, University of Maribor and Anja Durjava from the National Institute of Public Health. The panellists discussed the mental health problems of adolescents, and the discussion was further deepened with additional questions by the moderator Tjaša Rupar (IPES).

The conference ended with a World Café discussion, where participants worked in groups to address pre-defined questions related to mental health of young individuals.

The audience looks towards the podium where the four speakers are seated and talking.
© MKRR

The TRIALOG project is co-created by the project promoter the Gender Equality Research Institute Maribor (IPES) and project partners the Municipality of Ptuj, the University of Adult Education Ormož, the Center for Free Time Activities Ptuj, the Youth Council of the Municipality of Ptuj and Avisensa, the Institute for Psychology, Counselling and Education.

Digital learning connects the local community

20 March 2024 – Yesterday the digi.comp project held its final conference at the Cultural Institution Delavski dom Trbovlje. The digi.comp project, co-financed by the Norway Grants, brought together experts, institutions and enthusiasts committed to making digital knowledge more accessible and usable in wider society.

The project Raising Digital Competences »digi.comp« in the field of education, culture and arts connects Slovenian partners from Zasavje – the Adult Education Centre of Zasavje, the Cultural Institution Delavski dom Trbovlje, the Library of Tone Seliškar Trbovlje and Norwegian partner Piksel Produksjoner. The project’s objective is to develop new teaching and learning practices for work and life in the field of digital competence and to exchange knowledge and good practices between Slovenian and Norwegian partners.

The audience is seated in the auditorium.
© digi.komp

The results of several months of work were presented at the closing conference, where a large audience was addressed by distinguished speakers, including the Minister of Cohesion and Regional Development, dr. Aleksander Jevšek, the Mayor of Municipality Trbovlje, mag. Zoran Poznič, and the Director of the Adult Education Centre of Zasavje, Polona Trebušak.

Ms. Polona Trebušak took the opportunity to thank all the project partners and others who had contributed to the project’s achievements and said “For the Adult Education Centre of Zasavje and both partners this is the first project funded by the Norway Grants, and it has brought us a lot of new, a lot of good things, but also some stress and above all it has facilitated an important development and progress of our institution”. She concluded her speech with a statement directed towards the future: “Every end is a new beginning, and I believe that all the knowledge and achievements will live on in all the project partners. Adult Education Centre of Zasavje, the Cultural Institution Delavski dom Trbovlje, and the Library of Tone Seliškar Trbovlje are on an important mission. Through our activities, we provide accessibility and conditions for the involvement of all adult population and all generations in quality lifelong learning, increasing the basic skills of the population (such as reading, numeracy, problem-solving, communication, etc.).”

Mayor of Trbovlje mag. Zoran Poznič in his speech thanked all those who participated in the digi.comp project and stressed that the project’s activities are of great importance to the local community and society. He particularly emphasised the need for digital literacy in the 21st century.

The audience listens to the speaker on stage.
© digi.komp

The keynote speeches were concluded by the Minister for Cohesion and Regional Development, dr. Aleksander Jevšek stated “With the project Raising Digital Competences, we have enabled many individuals to acquire the knowledge and skills that are nowadays essential in the digital world. According to the latest research, the level of digital literacy in Slovenia is on the rise. Data shows that the percentage of people who feel comfortable using basic digital tools and services has increased by 15% in the last three years.”

A woman and a robot talk on stage.
© digi.komp

The audience also had the opportunity to listen to a robot named Eva, which addressed practical approaches to gaining digital skills. The digi.comp project leader Matej Uduč demonstrated the use of digital tools and approaches to develop new training programmes.

The digi.comp project is co-created by the project promoter Adult Education Centre of Zasavje and project partners the Cultural Institution Delavski dom Trbovlje, The Library of Tone Seliškar Trbovlje, and Piksel Produksjoner.

SOURCE: Adult Education Centre of Zasavje and digi.comp

Thematic conference of the Green Penguin project

20 March 2024 – Last week, the Green Penguin project hosted a thematic conference in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The conference, organised by Iskraemeco as a project promoter and project partners Municipality of Kranj, Municipality of Ljubljana, DOVES – FEE Slovenia and FEE Norway, impressed participants with its innovative approaches to experiential learning.

The project’s main result is the Green Penguin platform which offers a wide range of interactive learning materials that introduce students to topics such as climate change, energy saving and sustainable lifestyles in a fun and engaging way. Representatives from Hinko Smrekar Elementary School and Jože Moškrič Elementary School shared their experiences with using the Green Penguin platform. Students are excited about the interactive learning approach and happy to participate in various activities, such as quizzes, creating board games from recycled materials, and a clothing exchange. During the conference, teachers praised the platform as it allows them to integrate digital technologies into teaching in an innovative way and encourages students to become active citizens.

The speaker holds the microphone and speaks to the crowd. In the background, the screen displays a sign that reads Green Penguin at Hinko Smrekar Elementary School.
© Project Green Penguin

To conclude, a representative from the Municipality of Ljubljana presented the project Ljubljana on the path to carbon neutrality. She emphasised the importance of cooperation at the city, state, and individual levels, as well as the inclusion and awareness of sustainable practices.

The technical equipment for the conference is set up in the back of the room, with the speaker sitting in a chair next to it, speaking into a microphone. In the foreground, participants are watching the screen.
© Project Green Penguin

The Green Penguin conference confirmed that the Green Penguin platform is a valuable tool for experiential learning about sustainability. Participants were impressed by the innovative approaches and expressed their belief that the platform can significantly contribute to educating young people for a better future.

The project is co-financed by the Norway Grants and the corresponding Slovenian contribution under the programme Education, Scholarships, Apprenticeship and Youth Entrepreneurship.

 

Source: Iskraemeco

Technology alone does not bring progress

13 March 2024  – The BlendVET project was initiated amid the unpredictable COVID situation to enhance the digital and pedagogical competencies of teachers for blended learning in vocational and professional schools. Project partners emphasise that digitalisation offers not only challenges but also significant opportunities that we must learn to leverage. Digital competencies are particularly crucial for the society.

At the closing public event of the BlendVET project Aleksandar Sladojević, Acting Director of the Institute of the RS for Vocational Education and Training, who was responsible for the project management, said “The extensive digitalisation presents numerous opportunities. It poses a positive challenge to the economy, society, and the education system. Vocational education must play a pivotal role in fostering a solid, sustainable, and prosperous society, alongside an efficient economy. We appreciate the European Economic Area (EEA) Financial Mechanism and the experience of foreign partners, as well as the initiative of the Ministry of Education to take up the challenge of blended learning.”

The panellists are seated in the foreground. In the background there is a screen showing the speaker who is currently speaking.
© Project BlendVET

“Two-thirds of young people are enrolled in vocational and technical education, making its development paramount. After successfully overcoming the challenge of distance education during the pandemic, now is the time to share knowledge to bolster vocational training’s resilience and contribute to the economy and society’s journey towards sustainability,” added Director General of the The Upper Secondary, Short-Cycle Higher Vocational and Adult Education Directorate at the Ministry of Education, Branka Hrast Debeljak, MSc.

The greatest value lies not in the tools but in the knowledge gained

The implementation of the unique BlendVET project was made possible by the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development through the EEA Grants.

Jadranka Plut, Head of the Financial Mechanisms Sector at the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development, noted “The BlendVET project addresses two critical challenges: the insufficient digital skills among teachers and students. These competencies are becoming crucial for flexible learning models, which are increasingly important for lifelong learning. On the other hand, we would like to point out that, although modern tools are useful, the knowledge we acquire is our greatest asset.”

Jadranka Plut, Head of the Financial Mechanisms Division at the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development, on stage during the opening speech.
© Project BlendVET

The BlendVET project is primarily aimed at developing and introducing pedagogical approaches where digital technology supports student learning, rather than solely introducing digital technology.

Technology influences our behaviour

“Technology significantly impacts and alters our society, influencing our behaviour. We are transitioning our data to the cloud without necessarily knowing its location, and young people are less inclined towards the security of permanent jobs. Hence, it’s crucial to understand that introducing new technologies into the classroom requires careful consideration,” stated Doc. Andrej Flogie, PhD, from the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at the University of Maribor.

As emphasised during the BlendVET final conference, responsibility rests with all stakeholders. Merely providing infrastructure, resources, and qualified teachers is insufficient; the transition must be complementary, encompassing all of society. Failing to undertake this transformation together would result in merely replacing technology and tools, which alone do not bring added value and change to society.

More details are available on the web page BlendVET.

Participants attending the workshop, the lecturer shows them a piece of paper with something written on it.
© Project BlendVET

The BlendVET project is co-created by the project promoter, the Institute of the RS for Vocational Education and Training, with project partners the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Arts, Upper-secondary VET school Trbovlje, School centre Novo mesto, School centre Celje, Upper-secondary VET School Koper, Østfold University College (NOR), Åssiden upper secondary school (NOR), Viken Higher Vocational College (NOR), University of Akureyri (ISL), and Akureyri comprehensive college (ISL).

Source: Project BlendVET

Gold Nanoparticles and Their Diverse Applications

11 March 2024 – A symposium entitled Gold Nanoparticles Synthesised in Zlatarna Celje and Their Possible Applications took place on Friday, 8 March 2024, within the framework of the LFIA-REC project, supported by the Norway Grants.

The LFIA-REC project is developing recycling options for plastics and nano-gold, which are components of rapid antigen tests (COVID-19).

Setting the stage, the CEO of Zlatarna Celje, Bojan Albreht, shared with the audience insights into the collaborative development of gold nanoparticles, which, owing to their chemical and optical properties, boast a vast spectrum of applications.

A stage on which the opening speech is being delivered, with a screen containing the text of the speech in the background.
© Project LFIA-REC

The guest speaker, Assoc. Prof. Sergej Tomić, PhD from the Institute for Applied Nuclear Energy at the University of Belgrade, delved into groundbreaking research on the correlation between gold nanoparticle size and immunological response. Extensive studies have revealed how immunological responses vary depending on the size of the gold nanoparticles. These nanoparticles exhibit remarkable physicochemical properties, holding potential in theragnostic approaches to cancer and immunological diseases. The findings underscored the pivotal role of gold nanoparticles, highlighting promise in tailored therapies based on size specifications.

Representing the project promoter, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor, Jelen Žiga, MSc explained the intricate process of synthesizing gold nanoparticles through ultrasonic spray pyrolysis. As an intriguing observation, he noted that smaller gold nanoparticles appear red, while larger ones exhibit a purple hue. Expanding on the discussion, Assist. Prof. Peter Majerič, PhD presented the potential applications of gold nanoparticles in electronics and other industries. Due to their excellent electrical conductivity, gold nanoparticles offer various potential applications in electronics, additionally, they are also useful in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, healthcare, and technology development.

Gold nanoparticles in a dry state, visible in purple.
© Project LFIA-REC

The project team leader, Prof. Rebeka Rudolf, PhD from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor, revealed research exploring the melting temperatures of gold nanoparticles.  Unlike ordinary gold, gold nanoparticles exhibit distinct physicochemical properties, including significantly lower melting points – often tens or even hundreds of degrees lower. Experimental studies were conducted to determine the melting point of gold nanoparticles synthesized via ultrasonic spray pyrolysis and lyophilization, which were then compared with those of conventional gold.

Danica Popović Antić, DMD, PhD from the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Belgrade, introduced the beneficial properties of gold nanoparticles for enhancing dentures, emphasising their antibacterial characteristics. Matej Zadravec, PhD from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor elaborated on the advantages of dry gold nanoparticles obtained through lyophilisation.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Martin Rakuša, MD. from the University Medical Centre Maribor, discussed the utilisation of gold nanoparticles in Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis. Emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis for successful treatment, he highlighted the potential of gold nanoparticles in detecting proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease, a condition affecting 1 in 9 individuals over 65 years of age.

Group photo of all speakers and symposium participants.
© Project LFIA-REC

The synthesis of gold nanoparticles from various waste materials was presented by guest speaker Assoc. Prof. Srećko Stopić, PhD from the Institute IME Process Metallurgy and Metal Recycling at RWTH Aachen University. He highlighted the substantial potential of electronic and other waste products for the recycling and recovery of gold nanoparticles.

In conclusion, the symposium provided a comprehensive overview of the remarkable properties and diverse applications of gold nanoparticles, marking a significant milestone in advancing research and innovation in this emerging field.

In addition to the project promoter the University of Maribor, other participating entities include Plastika Skaza, the Faculty of Polymer Technology, the Institute of Metals and Technology, Zlatarna Celje, the University Medical Centre Maribor and Surovina, the Waste Processing Company.

 

Source: Zlatarna Celje in Fakulteta za strojništvo, Univerza v Mariboru

Project TERA closing event concludes with a panel discussion

7 March 2024 – The closing event of the project Development of a Comprehensive Approach for Enhancing Work-life Balance of Professional and Private Life in Rural Areas, Based on the Establishment of Multi-Stakeholder Regional Systems and Local Partnerships TERA concluded with a panel discussion on 7 March 2024. Hosted at the House of the European Union in Ljubljana and supported by the Norway Grants in Slovenia, the event featured both a press conference and a panel discussion focused on “Gender Equality in Rural Areas”.

The event commenced at 10:00 with a press conference where TERA project partners showcased a presentation video introducing all participating entities. The video highlighted the project’s efforts in empowering rural communities, addressing challenges, and balancing work and personal life. It also outlined the project’s activities, starting with a national survey on gender equality in rural regions. This survey identified key obstacles hindering rural residents from achieving a work-life balance and worsening gender inequality. Notable factors contributing to gender disparity included traditional gender roles, women’s economic dependence on their partners, indifference to violence, and inadequate public infrastructure in rural areas.

As part of the project’s initiatives, two multi-stakeholder local committees were formed, one in the Pomurje region and another in the Posavje region, featuring representatives from various public institutions and organisations. These committees aimed to implement developmental measures to enhance work-life balance opportunities for rural employees. More details about these measures can be found here.

A pivotal aspect of the project was its education and awareness-raising programme, conducted in the field and crafted based on research findings and consultations with stakeholders. This programme involved workshops covering six distinct themes: gender roles, gender-based violence, work-life balance, intergenerational coexistence, and farmer rights and social security. These workshops were interactive, featuring expert lectures followed by group discussions to devise solutions to pertinent challenges. Furthermore, mentors provided ongoing support to selected participants, aiding them in navigating project-related obstacles.

Project partners presenting project's details. From left to right: Anja Kastelic from the Slovenian Rural Youth Association, Ana Pavlič from the Institute for Gender Equality Research Institute Maribor (IPES), Tadej Pirc, PhD from the Development Centre Murska Sobota and the moderator of the panel discussion Nataša Briški.
© Project TERA

After the video presentation, Tadej Pirc, PhD from the Development Centre Murska Sobota emphasised the project’s integrated approach and interdisciplinary collaboration. Ana Pavlič from the Gender Equality Research Institute Maribor (IPES) elaborated on the survey findings, which encompassed insights from 707 rural residents, underlining the imperative to address gender equality issues beyond legal frameworks. You can find detailed results of the survey here. Anja Kastelic, representing the Slovenian Rural Youth Association, underscored the necessity of amplifying rural voices and addressing disparities in social insurance and access to information among rural populations.

At 11:00, the second part of the event commenced with a panel discussion focusing on “Gender Equality in Rural Areas“. Tadej Pirc, PhD delivered the opening speech, expressing gratitude to the project partners and all stakeholders for their contributions to the project’s implementation. Afterwards he introduced the project, highlighting its diverse approaches and its comprehensive perspective on the issues. He emphasised the pivotal role of gender equality in achieving work-life balance and advocated for a proactive approach to identifying and addressing inequalities, particularly to empower vulnerable groups.

Afterwards, Her Excellency Trina Skymoen, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway, addressed the audience. She underscored the importance of equal opportunities for men and women to participate in society and stressed the significance of women’s involvement across all sectors. Ambassador Skymoen noted the gradual improvement in gender equality in both Norway and Slovenia, attributing it not only to economic factors but also to the active implementation of gender equality policies, particularly by Norwegian women since 1970.

Opening speech by Her Excellency Trina Skymoen, Ambassador of Norway.
© Project TERA

Jadranka Plut, representing the Programme Operator of the Education, Scholarships, Apprenticeship and Youth Entrepreneurship Programme, Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development, warmly welcomed the attendees of the closing event. She highlighted the Norwegian Financial Mechanism as a crucial instrument for fostering cooperation and enhancing relations between Norway and Slovenia. She emphasised the importance of researches and projects like TERA in providing valuable insights that inform policy decisions and systemic regulations in the realm of gender equality.

The national panel discussion, “Gender Equality in Rural Areas”, moderated by Nataša Briški, featured notable attendees including Helena Valas from the Ministry of Labour, Family, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities, Tina Kosi from the Ministry of Education, Roman Žveglič from the Chamber of Agriculture and Forestry of Slovenia, Urša Skube from the Slovenian Rural Youth Association, and Ana Pavlič from the Gender Equality Research Institute Maribor (IPES).

The discussion was initiated by project partners, emphasising the distinctive challenges encountered by rural communities and underscoring the imperative need to address inequality in all settings. Helena Valas delved deeper into the lack of active childcare facilities in remote rural areas, worsening the struggle for work-life balance, a burden mostly carried by women.

Event venue, participants listening to the panel discussion.
© Project TERA

The representative of the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development, Andreja Budimir, pointed out at the panel discussion that such projects are crucial for identifying the challenges and problems in rural areas, as they allow to shed light on the issues.

During the open discussion, speakers underscored the prevalence of violence against women globally, with femicide witnessing a worrying increase in Slovenia. They emphasised the need for improved communication, nurturing relationships, and creating a safe space for sharing opinions. The project partners highlighted the unexpected responses from workshop participants, revealing a prevalent belief that rural individuals perceive limited influence in shaping systemic solutions and processes.

The central question raised was how to move the TERA project forward. The project partners unanimously agreed that their work had only just begun. They envisioned their initiatives evolving into strategic orientations, public legislation, and advocacy efforts that would incorporate a gender perspective into the discourse on rural areas. Recognizing the invaluable insights from those directly affected, they stressed the need for broader participation and consensus to address the multifaceted issues at hand.

Anja Kastelic from the Slovenian Rural Youth Association during her speech.
© Project TERA

The project promoter of the project TERA is the Development Centre Murska Sobota, the project is also co-created by the Regional Development Agency Posavje, the Gender Equality Research Insitute Maribor (IPES), the Slovenian Rural Youth Association, the Centre for the Development of Sustainable Society, and the Norwegian partner, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences.

Source: Project TERA

The “Commute Together” campaign promotes sustainable mobility for commuting to and from work

4 March 2024 – On Monday, 4th March, the Municipality of Škofja Loka launched a four-week awareness-rising campaign on sustainable mobility titled “Commute Together”, as part of the Trata 2.1 Project. This campaign targets employees in the Industrial Zone Trata to encouraging them to shift towards sustainable commuting practices.

The Trata 2.1 project, co-financed by the EEA Grants under the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Programme, seeks to motivate employees in the Industrial zone Trata to adopt sustainable commuting habits. The objective is to increase the number of employees opting for sustainable modes of transportation during their daily commute.

According to sustainable mobility experts, individuals residing within a 2 km radius of their workplace are encouraged to walk. For distances up to 5 km, the use of a bicycle is recommended, while for longer distances exceeding 5 km, experts suggest using an electric bicycle or public transport. If commuting from a more distant location where public transport is inconvenient due to transfers or schedules, carpooling offers a sustainable alternative.

Infographic describing the Commute Together campaign and encouraging employees to arrange their commute with a colleague or use the prevozi.org app to arrange their commute.
© Project Trata 2.1

Employees can easily arrange shared transportation with colleagues to get to work or use the Prevozi.org app, where they can mark their starting point and destination. As part of the »Commute Together« campaign, employees who carpool to the Industrial zone Trata will be eligible for entry into a prize draw involving both drivers and passengers.

In addition to the project promoter Municipality of Škofja Loka, other participating entities include the Sora Development Agency, the Institute for Spatial Policies, CIPRA Slovenia, the Society for the Protection of the Alps, Knauf Insulation, SIBO Group, Packaging Development and Production, LTH Castings, and CIPRA International.

Source: Municipality of Škofja Loka

A guide to entering a period of study

1 March 2024 – Researchers within the EMPOWER FOR 21 project have prepared a special guide titled “Life Transitions” for students starting their studies, available in the Slovenian language.

It is the first guide of its kind in the Slovenian higher education sector, providing information on topics such as time management, relationships, sexuality, addictions, etc. Students will also find descriptions of the most common challenges and hardships typical of this period and ideas on how to deal with them effectively.

A set of guidebooks entitled Life Transitions.
© Project EMPOWER FOR 21

The document is available for free at the following link: https://empowerfor21.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/UKC-Zivljenski-prehodi_final.pdf.

The guide is based on the English version developed by Canadian psychology experts. On the basis of a peer review, it has been adapted to the cultural characteristics by experts of the project promoter University Medical Centre Maribor (UMC Maribor) and project partners University of Maribor, Faculty of Medicine (UM FM) and Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), namely Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hojka Gregorič Kumperščak, MD, PhD, Specialist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (UM MF), Nina Vučinič, M.Sc. in Psychology, Sara Plakolm Erlač, Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (UMC Maribor) and Prof. Norbert Skokauskas, MD, PhD, Expert in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (NTNU).

EMPOWER FOR 21 project is part of the programme Education, Scholarships, Apprenticeship and Youth Entrepreneurship and is funded by the Norway Grants and the corresponding Slovenian contribution. It focuses on training teachers in communication, leadership, mental health and teaching critical thinking to better prepare them to teach professionals in higher education and also at work.

 

Source: EMPOWER FOR 21 Project

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