SYSTEM - Supporting Youth in STEM

<< Background >>The SYSTEM - Supporting Youth in STEM project was applied for to address the educational challenges faced by the participating entities in Spain, Italy and Türkiye, specifically in the STEM/STEAM sector. The project aimed to improve local STEM education and bridge the gap between educational systems and the real labor market. The needs identified include a lack of proper STEM/STEAM training, digital skills and expertise in certain areas. For example, Spain and Italy face challenges such as insufficient teacher training and outdated curricula. In contrast, Türkiye is experiencing a quick development in STEM education and seeks to further enhance its programs to compete globally. Each participating organization had unique needs: Asociación Extremundo sought better organizational skills in managing Erasmus+ projects, STEAM Center Badajoz aimed to strengthen its local and international recognition and various educational institutions needed to enhance their STEM expertise and improve their European visibility. By focusing on achievable local goals, the project planned to create long-term impacts through continuous cooperation and capacity-building activities.<< Objectives >>The SYSTEM - Supporting Youth in STEM project aimed to achieve several goals focused on promoting STEM/STEAM education, improving pedagogical practices and enhancing international cooperation. Firstly, the project sought to foster interest and excellence in STEM among 30 students and 40 youth workers (teachers and youth services providers) across Spain, Italy and Türkiye, contributing to national STEM strategies in these countries. Secondly, the project aimed to develop innovative teaching and assessment methods through a 2-year partnership, improving the professional skills of all participants in the planned Learning Teaching Training Activities (LTTAs). Thirdly, the project focused on strengthening the organizational capacities of 3 high-schools, 1 STEAM center and 1 association involved in Erasmus+ projects, helping them gain experience in international cooperation and project management. Overall, the project aimed to enhance the teaching of STEM/STEAM, empower educational professionals and improve the management of Erasmus+ projects, ensuring long-term success and collaboration.<< Implementation >>The SYSTEM - Supporting Youth in STEM project included several key activities across different mobilities to promote STEM/STEAM education and foster international cooperation:1) Kick-Off Meeting in Mérida (Spain): the project began with a coordination meeting at the Alcazaba Cultural Center, followed by a cultural tour of Mérida and an institutional visit to the City Hall, including a local press conference;2) LTTA 1 in Paternò (Italy): activities included a welcome ceremony at IIS Francesco Redi, visits to greenhouses, laboratories and the University of Catania, as well as a cultural tour of Paternò, Biancavilla and Mount Etna;3) LTTA 2 in Badajoz (Spain): participants visited the STEAM Center Badajoz, the University of Extremadura and participated in a night-time astrotourism activity at Finca La Cocosa - Diputación de Badajoz. A scientific city tour and a visit to the FIWARE Space and Scientific-Technological Park were also conducted;4) LTTA 3 in Istanbul (Türkiye): activities included visits to the Milli Teknoloji Hamlesi Center, Adile Mermerci Anadolu Lisesi and a boat tour on the Bosphorus. The cultural tour of Istanbul featured the Grand Bazaar and major mosques, along with a coordination meeting at the school.<< Results >>The SYSTEM - Supporting Youth in STEM project produced several concrete outputs and impactful results. Key outputs include reports from participating institutions, such as IES Sáenz de Buruaga, Adile Mermerci Anadolu Lisesi and IIS Francesco Redi, documenting their experiences and insights on the project. The students actively participated in presentations and reflective activities about their roles in STEM education, sharing their schools and tasks and engaging in mobility sessions. Families supported specific tasks, such as obtaining parental and police permissions for travel.Additionally, the project involved local institutions and organizations, such as city councils, universities and STEM-related entities. Notable visits included the University of Catania, University of Extremadura and Milli Teknoloji Hamlesi in Istanbul. The project also gained significant media attention, with coverage in local press, educational forums and sector-specific websites, ensuring broad dissemination. The project's activities and outcomes were widely recognized, highlighting the success of its implementation and impact on both education and cultural exchange.