This May (from 24 to 25 of May), the partners of the BEEP project convened in Patras, Greece, to discuss progress and plan future activities. The BEEP project aims to empower adults through educational practices that promote active citizenship and social justice.
Participation and Critical Thinking in Focus
A central theme of the meeting was participation in civic life. Partners exchanged experiences with participatory processes in educational settings. Recognizing that many communities lack the motivation to get involved in local issues, the discussion emphasized the importance of adult education in promoting active citizenship.
Countering Apathy and Right-Wing Populism
The conversation highlighted the rise of right-wing populism in some European countries. Participants noted a tendency for citizens to focus on immediate concerns, such as the cost of living, potentially neglecting broader political issues. They stressed the need for educational approaches that encourage critical reflection and engagement with complex social realities.
Multiplier Events and Policy Recommendations
The meeting also addressed plans for multiplier events in November 2023. These events aim to showcase project results and gather feedback to inform the development of policy recommendations. The ultimate goal is to influence adult education practices and empower citizens to actively participate in shaping their communities.
Next Steps and Project Timeline
The coming months will see partners finalizing project materials and preparing for the national multiplier events. The project concludes in March 2024, with a final conference scheduled for Vienna in February.
This blog post provides a brief overview of the BEEP project meeting discussions.