Exploring the Future of VET, AI and EU Funding at the EVBB Policy Camp 2026
INFODEF participated in the EVBB Policy Camp 2026, held in Thessaloniki, Greece, from 29 June to 3 July. Organised by the European Association of Institutes for Vocational Training (EVBB), of which INFODEF is a member, the event brought together VET professionals, policymakers, project managers and education experts from across Europe to discuss the future of vocational education and training under the theme “Beyond the Bubble: VET, AI & the Future of EU Funding.” The Policy Camp provided a valuable opportunity to explore some of the key issues currently shaping the European VET landscape. Discussions focused on the future of EU funding, the ongoing negotiations surrounding the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in project development, and the implications of these changes for VET organisations and practitioners. One of the highlights of the programme was the discussion on the use of AI in EU-funded projects, including practical sessions on AI-assisted proposal writing and insights from experienced evaluators on how AI-supported applications are assessed. These sessions provided participants with a better understanding of both the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating AI into project development processes. The programme also included a full day at Cedefop, where participants explored current European priorities in vocational education and training. Topics covered included vocational excellence, microcredentials, teacher mobility, inclusion in VET, digital skills and the implementation of the Herning Declaration. In addition to the policy discussions, the event offered excellent networking opportunities with VET providers, European institutions, project coordinators and other EVBB members. These exchanges allowed participants to share experiences, discuss emerging challenges and explore potential avenues for future cooperation. Participating in the EVBB Policy Camp enabled INFODEF to stay up to date with current developments in European VET policy, funding priorities and innovation trends, while strengthening its network within the European vocational education community.
Contributing to high-level discussions on skills, innovation and the green transition in Brussels
INFODEF participated in the Brussels High-Level Dialogue on Clean Energy, Agriculture AI, Regional Innovation and Skills, held from 8 to 11 June 2026 in Brussels. Organised within the framework of the ACRID Network (Associated and Candidate Countries Research, Innovation and Development Network), a network focused on strengthening research, innovation and development capacities in EU Associated and Candidate Countries, the event brought together representatives of European institutions, ministries, regional and local authorities, universities, companies, clusters and project consortia to discuss current challenges and opportunities linked to Europe’s green and digital transition. The programme combined high-level policy discussions, project showcases and networking activities aimed at fostering cooperation between the public, private and academic sectors. Participants exchanged experiences, explored common challenges and identified opportunities for future collaboration under European funding programmes. For INFODEF, the event provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen existing partnerships, establish new contacts and explore future cooperation opportunities under programmes such as Erasmus+, Horizon Europe and other direct EU funding instruments. As an active partner in several initiatives featured during the event, INFODEF contributed to exchanges related to the Erasmus+ projects ELeVATE, MOBUILDING and SEBCoVE. These projects address key priorities such as vocational excellence, green and digital skills, inclusion, innovation and regional development, closely aligning with the themes discussed throughout the programme. The event also highlighted the importance of connecting project results with policy priorities and fostering collaboration between the public, private and academic sectors to support Europe’s green and digital future. Through its participation, INFODEF continues to strengthen its international network and contribute to initiatives that promote innovation, skills development and sustainable growth across Europe and beyond.
INFODEF participates in the Erasmus+ Week 2026 for Sub-Saharan Africa
INFODEF participated in the Regional Erasmus+ Cluster Meeting and Contact-Making Seminar 2026 for Sub-Saharan Africa, held on 19–20 May in Dakar, Senegal. The event, organised by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture (DG EAC) and the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), brought together representatives of Higher Education and Vocational Education and Training (VET) institutions from Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa, alongside Erasmus+ National Focal Points, National Agencies, EU Delegations and other key stakeholders. Under the theme “Developing Skills for the Future”, participants explored how Erasmus+ projects are contributing to skills development, employability, innovation and sustainable growth across both regions. Discussions focused on topics such as skills validation, innovation and research, improving teaching competences, and strengthening links between education and the labour market through work-based learning. The event also included networking and contact-making sessions designed to foster new partnerships and future project cooperation between European and African organisations. These exchanges provided valuable opportunities to share experiences, identify common challenges and explore innovative approaches to capacity building in education and training. INFODEF’s participation reinforces its commitment to supporting international cooperation and contributing to the development of high-quality, inclusive and future-oriented education systems. The themes addressed during the meeting are closely aligned with several of the organisation’s ongoing Erasmus+ initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa, including projects focused on green skills, vocational excellence, digital transformation and sustainable development (e.g. GreenVET4U, AGREEN Gambia). As Europe and Africa continue working together to address skills gaps and prepare learners for rapidly changing labour markets, events such as Erasmus+ Week play a key role in strengthening collaboration and creating new opportunities for institutions, educators and learners on both continents.
AGREEN Gambia launch receives media attention in The Gambia
The official launch of the AGREEN Gambia project has attracted significant attention from Gambian media, highlighting the relevance of the initiative for the country’s vocational education system, agricultural sector, and youth employment agenda. Following the kick-off event held in Banjul in April, several national news outlets reported on the project’s objectives and expected impact, underlining its contribution to strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture, and creating new opportunities for young people and rural communities. Co-funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in VET programme and coordinated by INFODEF, AGREEN Gambia aims to enhance the capacity and relevance of the TVET system in The Gambia while supporting the transition towards more sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices. The project brings together partners from The Gambia, Spain, Croatia, and Ireland to strengthen cooperation between education providers, public institutions, employers, and entrepreneurship support organisations. The media coverage highlighted several key challenges that AGREEN Gambia seeks to address. These include the need to better align vocational education with labour market demands, improve employment opportunities for young people, strengthen entrepreneurship support, and equip learners and educators with the skills needed to respond to climate change and agricultural transformation. The articles also emphasised the importance of Climate-Smart Agriculture as a pathway towards improved food security, sustainable rural development, and greater resilience among farming communities. Particular attention was given to the project’s focus on youth empowerment. With a large share of The Gambia’s population under the age of 35, developing relevant skills and creating new pathways to employment and entrepreneurship is essential for the country’s future. Through innovative training resources, educator capacity building, and stronger links between TVET institutions and employers, AGREEN Gambia aims to contribute to these goals while supporting a more inclusive and sustainable economy. Media Coverage The launch event was featured by: The Standard – Youth Ministry launches D34M AGREEN Gambia project to boost TVET The Point – D34M AGREEN project launched to reshape youth skills, farming
Launch of the AGREEN Gambia project to strengthen TVET and Climate-Smart Agriculture in The Gambia
The AGREEN Gambia project (Building the capacity of TVET in The Gambia to boost Climate-Smart Agriculture), coordinated by INFODEF, was officially launched in Banjul, The Gambia, from 15 to 17 April 2026. The kick-off meeting brought together partners from The Gambia, Spain, Croatia, and Ireland to begin a 30-month Erasmus+ Capacity Building in VET project focused on strengthening vocational education and supporting the transition towards Climate-Smart Agriculture. Co-funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ programme, AGREEN Gambia aims to enhance the capacity and relevance of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system in The Gambia, contributing to sustainable rural development, improved food security, and greater climate resilience, particularly among young people and women in rural communities. AGREEN Gambia brings together a diverse partnership of organisations from The Gambia and Europe. Alongside INFODEF as coordinator, the consortium includes the Ministry of Youth and Sports of The Gambia, The Gambia College, the Gambia Startup Chamber of Commerce, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek (Croatia), and INNOQUALITY Systems (Ireland). The partners will work closely to strengthen cooperation between education providers, public authorities, employers, and entrepreneurship support organisations, helping to ensure that vocational education responds to the country’s evolving needs. During the three-day meeting, partners discussed the implementation of the project’s activities and laid the groundwork for future collaboration. Key topics included the creation of a Gambia-EU Community of Practice, the development of a national reference curriculum on Climate-Smart Agriculture, the design of innovative training resources for educators and learners, and strategies to strengthen links between vocational education and the labour market. The official launch event brought together representatives from national institutions, the European Union Delegation, TVET providers, and private sector stakeholders. Participants highlighted the importance of investing in skills development to address youth unemployment, strengthen climate resilience, and support sustainable agricultural development. Speaking at the event, EU Deputy Head of Mission Raphael Brigandi underlined the importance of vocational education as a driver of opportunity, resilience, and empowerment, while emphasising the role of skills development in supporting sustainable rural development. Representatives from the Ministry of Youth and Sports highlighted the project’s contribution to modernising the TVET system through innovative teaching approaches, digital learning tools, and stronger connections between education and employment. Over the next 30 months, AGREEN Gambia will focus on improving the quality and responsiveness of TVET provision, strengthening the capacities of educators, promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture, and supporting green, digital, and inclusive entrepreneurship. Through these actions, the project aims to create new opportunities for learners, educators, and rural communities while contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future for The Gambia.
SPACE project receives the European Innovative Teaching Award 2025
We are proud to share that the Erasmus+ project SPACE – Seniors Perceive A Common Europe, in which INFODEF has participated as a partner, has received the European Innovative Teaching Award (EITA) 2025 in adult education. Since 2021, the European Commission has been using this award to highlight outstanding teaching practices developed within Erasmus+ projects. Every year, the award focuses on a current educational policy theme. In 2025, the spotlight was placed on education for democracy and civic engagement. The award was granted in Germany in the field of Adult Education and announced on 15 September by the National Agency at BIBB. For the SPACE project, coordinated by VHS Cham (Germany) with partners from Bulgaria, Spain, Sweden and Italy, this recognition is both a celebration and a confirmation of the project’s impact. What is SPACE about? SPACE empowers senior citizens to discover European values and identity through cultural heritage, shared traditions, and intercultural exchanges. It offered non-formal learning experiences ranging from digital activities to hands-on workshops such as baking traditional recipes or working with local crafts. The project encouraged seniors not only to reconnect with their own traditions but also to share them with peers across Europe. The SPACE project has produced a wide set of resources, freely available as Open Educational Resources (OERs): A Handbook with frameworks and best practices for adult educators An Empowerment Course with blended learning materials Over 100 digital exhibits created together with seniors Inspiring Digital Trails showcasing cultural heritage across countries You can explore all of them here: https://thespaceproject.eu/ For INFODEF, being part of a project like SPACE means contributing to a Europe that is closer, more inclusive, and more democratic. This award is a recognition not only of innovative teaching practices, but also of the transformative power of lifelong learning.
Signing ceremony at the High-Level Event of the European Alliance for Apprenticeships
On June 30 and July 1, INFODEF participated in the High-Level Event of the European Alliance for Apprenticeships (EAfA), held in Brussels under the theme “Apprenticeships for the Union of Skills and the Clean Industrial Deal.” This edition of the event was particularly meaningful, as it aligned with the launch of two major European Commission initiatives: the Union of Skills and the Clean Industrial Deal. Both place skills development and quality employment at the core of Europe’s green and digital transitions. During the Signing Ceremony, INFODEF officially joined the Alliance alongside other new members. The diplomas were presented by Roxana Mînzatu, Deputy Director-General of DG EMPL, in a warm and symbolic moment of commitment to advancing excellence in vocational education and training. The event provided a valuable platform to reflect on the transformative potential of apprenticeships — not only as a tool to boost employability but also to respond to the evolving needs of industry, especially in energy-intensive sectors. Discussions highlighted the importance of work-based learning in equipping learners with green skills and strengthening STEM pathways, as well as the role of apprenticeships in fostering a competitive, inclusive, and sustainable Europe. At INFODEF, we believe that quality apprenticeships are essential to building future-ready professionals. Our membership in EAfA strengthens our position within the European VET Excellence ecosystem and reinforces our commitment to promoting inclusive, innovative, and labour market-relevant training opportunities. Learn more about the European Alliance for Apprenticeships: https://employment-social-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies-and-activities/skills-and-qualifications/working-together/european-alliance-apprenticeships/about-eafa_en
A Mine of Stories: rural innovation with a mining soul
In the heart of the Montaña Palentina —a mountainous area in northern Spain known for its natural beauty and mining heritage— the former Casa del Pueblo of Vallejo de Orbó hosted this Wednesday the official launch of A Mine of Stories, a national initiative aiming to open a new path for sustainable development in post-mining rural areas. The project represents a unique opportunity to rethink the future of the countryside through innovation, culture, and community engagement. Led by the Brañosera Town Council and Spain’s Ministry for the Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge, A Mine of Stories will run for eight months and reach various mining communities in the region, including Brañosera, Valberzoso, Salcedillo, and Orbó. A key component of the project is its training programme, which includes eight intensive courses of at least 40 hours. These combine theoretical learning, technical visits, and practical workshops. They are aimed at tourist guides, heritage professionals, rural entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in developing new initiatives in their local area. Topics will range from industrial heritage interpretation to the design of tourism experiences, digital marketing, and the use of emerging technologies. INFODEF contributes to the delivery of this training programme, building on its background in education, heritage, and sustainable tourism. Its participation in A Mine of Stories highlights its commitment to educational innovation as a tool for community-based rural regeneration. In addition to the Brañosera Town Council, the initiative involves the collaboration of KOAN Consulting, Patrimonio Global, Radio Viajera, Geocyl, and Enredadas con el Patrimonio, as well as close ties with local associations such as ARPI and the Montaña Palentina Local Action Group. More information at https://www.unaminadehistorias.com Some news published about the event: https://cadenaser.com/castillayleon/2025/05/22/el-patrimonio-minero-se-convierte-en-motor-de-futuro-para-la-montana-palentina-radio-palencia/
GreenCCircle: bringing sustainability into cultural and creative industries
The green transition also belongs to culture. That’s the shared conviction behind GreenCCircle – Cooperative CCIs moving towards green business models, a new European project aimed at rethinking the environmental impact of Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) and supporting their shift towards more sustainable business practices. Co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme and running over 36 months, the project brings together a diverse team of partners from seven countries, including INFODEF. All of them believe that sustainability is not only a responsibility but also a real chance to innovate, create, and grow in a more conscious and resilient way. GreenCCircle will deliver hands-on tools: challenge-based learning paths, environmental self-assessments, green entrepreneurship methodologies, and creative experimentation spaces such as Living Labs. The goal is simple: to equip professionals, entrepreneurs, and organisations in the cultural sector with the right tools to make environmentally sound decisions—without giving up creativity or social impact. Within this project, INFODEF is contributing to the design of the emerging professional profile linked to this transformation, the development of the learning programme, and the creation of assessment tools and storytelling-based pedagogical approaches. GreenCCircle is an opportunity to highlight the potential of CCIs as drivers of change in our communities. A space to connect creativity, sustainability and the social economy.
Empowering VET Excellence in Castilla y León: INFODEF at the IV VET Forum
On April 8–9, INFODEF participated in the IV Vocational Education and Training Forum of Castilla y León, held at Valladolid Congress Centre, in Spain. The event brought together regional experts and European policy influencers to discuss the future of vocational training and the critical role of international cooperation in education. INFODEF’S director, Jesús Boyano, joined an engaging roundtable on mobility and internationalisation, sharing insights on how the entity’s involvement in excellence projects reinforces our commitment to modernizing vocational training. His participation underscored INFODEF’s dedication to ensuring that education meets labor market demands while embracing global best practices. The forum featured renowned speakers such as: Rocío Lucas Navas – Education Counselor from the Junta de Castilla y León. Joachim James Calleja – President of EfVET and VET consultant, who presented the new European capacity strategy for vocational training, highlighting emerging opportunities and challenges across EU member states. José Manuel Galvín – Senior Expert in Vocational Excellence at the European Training Foundation, who illuminated international cooperation models, particularly the coordination of Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) and skills ecosystems. Alicia Gabán – Head of Communications and Projects at EARLALL (European Association of Regional and Local Authorities for Lifelong Learning). Anastasia Pouliou – Expert in qualifications and credentials at CEDEFOP. Agustín Sigüenza Molina – Director General of FP and Special Regime in Castilla y León. Precisely within the framework of the 4th Vocational Education and Training Forum of Castilla y León, the signing ceremony of the HABITABLE Regional Alliance of Castilla y León took place, with the participation of INFODEF. This event marked a key step in continuing to strengthen a collaborative model around the habitat sector, and it was made possible thanks to the commitment of all partner organizations, as well as those that, through their presence, have actively chosen to join this process. In addition, the forum coincided with the Castilla y León VET Skills 2025 Competition. In this competition, more than 200 vocational students from the region showcased their talents in various categories, including hairdressing, masonry, mechatronics, automotive technology, pharmacy, window display, culinary arts, and renewable energies. Regional winners will now advance to the national competition that will take place in 2026. Notably, the construction competition zone featured the presence of the HABITABLE project – an innovative initiative addressing the shortage of skilled professionals in Europe’s housing sector by developing a Centre of Vocational Excellence in the Habitat area. Alongside other excellence projects like SEBCoVE, GreenVET4U, VET4chains, or GreenCCIrcle, our participation in these initiatives reaffirms INFODEF’s commitment to innovation and the sustainable evolution of vocational training. Fostering collaboration between educational institutions and industry partners is key to harnessing the benefits of vocational training in today’s digital and green economy. The Skills Competition is a great example of collaboration where companies from different sectors partner with the competition organizers to enable the development of the different tasks providing materials and tools, and also evaluating the participant students. This event is an important showcase for young people to closely learn about the professional development options offered by vocational training.