The EUdemos Summer School officially began on September 3rd, 2024, at the Sala Polifunzionale in Piazza Roma, Carbonia, Sardinia. This event, running until September 7th, brings together students from partner schools in Portugal, Poland, Greece, and Italy. Organised by the Royal Institute of European Studies at CEU San Pablo University and funded by the European Union’s Erasmus+ programme, the EUdemos project aims to promote European values in schools through a blend of interactive and pedagogical activities.
The programme skillfully alternates between formal educational moments and non-formal activities designed to foster interaction among the young participants. The first day focused on European Culture and Awareness. Following registration, the day kicked off at 9:00 AM with Ice Breaker activities such as Bingo and Match the Flags. These were followed by the workshop “Getting to Know Our Cultures,” where students presented unique aspects of their national traditions. This cultural exchange offered the students an opportunity to broaden their perspectives and deepen their mutual understanding.
In the afternoon, participants embarked on a cultural visit, exploring the beautiful island of Sardinia and immersing themselves in its rich history and landscapes. The day concluded with a shared dinner, offering further opportunities for socialising and strengthening the bonds between students from across Europe.
We had the opportunity to interview Prof. Jerónimo Maillo, coordinator of the EUdemos project, who expressed his immense satisfaction with the organisation and the dynamic interaction among participants. “I’m truly thrilled by the level of participation and engagement from the students. We have worked hard to organise this Summer School, and I’m delighted to see everything running smoothly,” he said. “The students have responded incredibly well, showing great curiosity and openness towards European themes.”
Prof. Maillo also emphasised the importance of alternating formal educational sessions with non-formal activities to enhance interaction between the participants. “This combination allows the students to not only learn about the European Union but also to build personal connections through shared experiences outside the classroom, making the entire learning process more enriching.”
Moreover, he underlined the significance of the presence of school administrators from Carbonia’s high schools and a delegation of local students, who will actively participate in the Summer School. “Involving the local community in such a meaningful project is crucial. The participation of Carbonia’s students adds further value to the experience, creating a more diverse exchange of ideas and perspectives.”
Finally, Prof. Maillo expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Mayor of Carbonia and the City’s Councillor for Education for their unwavering support. “I cannot thank the Mayor and the Councillor for Education enough for making this event possible here in Carbonia. Their assistance has been pivotal in securing the facilities, including the Council Chamber, and for making us feel so welcome in this beautiful city.”
Prof. Maillo’s enthusiasm, combined with the warm hospitality of the Carbonia community, sets the stage for a week of rich cultural exchange, combining learning and fun, all under the banner of European values.
