Teachers from Aristotelio Serres  at Award Ceremony in Italy
Celebrating Success in the Heart of Italy

From October 23rd to 24th, 2024, the beautiful city of Caltanissetta, Italy, hosted the final transnational meeting of the Erasmus+ KA220 project #OPEN@ "Opening Digital World Doors to #NEXT Digital Generations." This vibrant event marked the culmination of two years of dedicated work by institutions and organizations from Italy, the Czech Republic, Turkey, Greece, Austria, and Latvia. Among the participants were the enthusiastic teachers from Aristotelio Serres, who played a crucial role in this international collaboration.

A Journey of Learning and Growth

The #OPEN@ project aimed to create an e-learning platform that would inspire and motivate English language teachers. Over the course of the project, areas of focus included creative writing, critical reading, journalism, social media, and the integration of new technologies in teaching. The project successfully involved around 200 students from the participating countries in creating journalistic articles and online magazines, addressing key themes like climate change, democratic participation, digital transition, and inclusion.

 Cultural Immersion and Professional Development

The two-day event in Italy wasn't solely about meetings and presentations. It was enriched with cultural experiences that left a lasting impression on all attendees. Participants enjoyed a visit to the enchanting Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, explored the historic treasures of Caltanissetta such as Palazzo del Carmine, Teatro Margherita, and the Cathedral, and engaged in a fascinating discussion with the manager of Spazio Pitta. This unique venue combines urban regeneration with art and traditions, offering a perfect blend of innovation and heritage.

 Honoring Excellence in Journalism

One of the highlights of the event was the international award ceremony for the best journalistic article produced by students. A jury, comprising project managers from Turkey and Austria and four Norwegian teachers hosted at ITET "Rapisardi da Vinci" for Job Shadowing activities, selected the winning article from among the national finalists. The quality, depth, and creativity of the young journalists' work were highly praised by the jury.

 Connecting Across Borders

In a special online meeting, students from Aristotelio Serres who won the local award for the best article had the opportunity to share their experiences with their international peers. They reflected on the invaluable lessons they learned during their two years as part of the journalist team of #OPEN@. These young writers delved into topics close to their hearts, such as immigration, eco-sustainability, gender equality, and local traditions, all while enhancing their collaborative writing skills and mastering innovative digital tools.

A Proud Moment for Aristotelio Serres

The participation of the teachers and students from Aristotelio Serres in this prestigious event not only showcased their hard work and dedication but also underscored the importance of international cooperation in education. The #OPEN@ project has provided a platform for students and educators to explore new horizons, fostering a sense of belonging to a shared European dimension.

Looking Ahead

As the #OPEN@ project draws to a close, the memories and experiences gained will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all participants. The journey doesn't end here; the lessons learned and the connections made will continue to inspire and guide the future endeavors of everyone involved. Aristotelio Serres looks forward to embracing new challenges and opportunities, carrying forward the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and excellence nurtured through this remarkable project.

We celebrate the achievements of our teachers and students, who have made us proud on an international stage. Here's to many more such milestones in the future!