AMARU 5.0 - Latin American Learning Factory Network for Smart and Sustainable Engineering Education

In mythology of South America, the Amaru is a mythical double-headed animal. AMARU 5.0 stands here for the twin transition in engineering education towards DIGITAL and GREEN skills according to Industry 5.0. The specific AMARU 5.0 objectives are defined as: (1) introducing learning factories in Latin America as modern and innovative learning and teaching method, (2) improving the quality of engineering education by strengthening practical skills of young talents through hands-on trainings in a company-like environment, (3) strengthen collaboration of universities with industry/SMEs through hands-on trainings for professionals, (4) improving digital as well as green skills of HEI teachers and learners, (5) accelerate the twin transition in Latin America’s HEIs as well as industry/SMEs. Moreover, the project contributes significantly to countries commitments of UN 2030 SDGs.The project foresees the establishment of 7 so called “Smart and Sustainable Learning Factories” (SSLF) at 7 Latin American HEI in Colombia, Argentina, Brazil and Mexico, connected in a new established Latin America Learning Factory Network (LALFN). The seven SSLF lab facilities/spaces are provided in-kind. The project prepares the ramp-up of the new LALFN network including the design, establishment and operation of innovative and hands-on learning modules, preparing the target groups (1) HEI teachers, (2) HEI students as well as (3) professionals from industry/SMEs in digital as well as green skills. An external evaluator and a strong link with the International Association of Learning Factories (IALF) ensures a successful implementation. By the end of the project lifetime the IALFN will seek for further funding opportunities to expand the network to other Latin American HEIs and countries guaranteeing sustainability of LALFN. Industry partners are providing feedback to the outcomes, by testing and evaluating the trainings and forming Local Stakeholder Groups