On October 11, 2023, the SKILLS FOR ONLINE Project hosted a significant metaverse meeting uniting young individuals from various European regions. This interactive session focused on exchanging ideas concerning online and virtual skills while delving into discussions surrounding the potential risks within the digital sphere. The diverse perspectives shared emphasized the importance of collective vigilance and proactive strategies to address challenges in the dynamic digital world.
On October 10th, 2023, the Erasmus Days 2023 virtual meeting brought together European youth in the metaverse for the Adults for Green Project reunion. Enthusiastically, participants engaged in discussions to delve into the project's core, aiming to heighten adult awareness about responsible and sustainable consumption. The event served as a dynamic platform for sharing ideas and strategies, fostering a collective commitment to promoting mindful choices in the consumption of products and services for a greener future. On October 10th, 2023, also, the Youth for Rural project convened a virtual meeting in the metaverse, focusing on two main objectives. Firstly, the project aimed to support the promotion of local (km0) products, emphasizing sustainable and community-centric consumption. Secondly, it sought to enhance the entrepreneurial skills of young participants, empowering them to contribute to rural development. The event provided a platform for collaborative discussions, laying the foundation for a more vibrant and sustainable future in rural communities.
On October 9, 2023, the WE ARE COMPASS FOLLOWERS Project convened a significant metaverse meeting uniting young minds and Erasmus participants to discuss human rights as part of the celebration of ERASMUS DAYS. AIFED members presented the COMPASS manual from the Council of Europe. The session became an incubator for vibrant exchanges where the youth and Erasmus contributors passionately shared diverse ideas regarding human rights advocacy. The presentation of the COMPASS manual provided a structured framework, fostering insightful discussions and empowering attendees to explore practical ways to champion human rights within their communities. The meeting epitomized the fusion of knowledge-sharing and collective enthusiasm, emphasizing the pivotal role of collaborative initiatives in advancing human rights awareness among the younger generation.
On September 22, 2023, the Erasmus+ project "UNISON" hosted a significant virtual meeting where partners from North Macedonia, Azores (Portugal), and Croatia shared their cultural heritage. Facilitated by the Metaversing project, coordinated by AIFED, this gathering not only showcased heritage but also merged cultural sectors with digital innovation. It provided a platform for exchanging best practices, emphasizing how technology can empower young artists and cultural workers in the evolving digital landscape.
On July 25, 2023, the SKILLS FOR ONLINE Project convened a crucial metaverse meeting with young participants. Focused on enhancing adult education through digital practices, this session aimed to refine methodologies and staff skills. Discussions centered on leveraging technology for enriched learning experiences, transcending boundaries for collaborative innovation. The gathering highlighted the role of the youth in reshaping education, emphasizing the importance of digital education for adults in an evolving, tech-driven world.
On the vibrant digital frontier of the Metaverse, a crucial gathering took place on the 26th of June. This meeting was not just a convergence of minds but a collaboration between various institutions deeply invested in the realm of Metaversing and the SkillsForOnline Project, identified as Erasmus+ 2021-1-ES01-KA210-ADU-000034023. The gathering was not just about technology; it was a celebration of intergenerational dialogue and collaboration. The youth, with their innate understanding of the digital landscape, joined forces with institutions deeply involved in Metaversing and the SkillsForOnline Project to deliberate on the inclusion and empowerment of older adults in the vast expanse of the digital realm. The focal points of the meeting were clear and resonant: first and foremost, the inclusion of older adults in the technological world. The participants acknowledged the necessity of bridging the digital divide and providing meaningful opportunities for the elder generation to engage with and benefit from technology. The meeting also emphasized the importance of training programs tailored to the specific needs and preferences of older adults, ensuring that they not only become proficient but also find joy and purpose in their digital endeavors.
On Friday the 26rd of June took place the first meeting in the Metaverse at AIFED. This meeting’s goal was to discuss questions prepared about the project and the future of the Metaverse. Everybody had their own avatar and sat in the conference room in the Metaverse. Some questions were prepared by the team to discuss the different topics and issues the implementation of the Metaverse could bring. For example, some of the questions were:
an extraordinary milestone occurred in the metaverse, granting an exclusive opportunity to those who are dedicated to working with young people. The AIFED association, known for their commitment to advancing education and youth development, meticulously prepared and coordinated an event that would leave a lasting impact. They provided a virtual room to facilitate this transformative gathering as a gateway to the metaverse. As participants stepped into this digital real.The first task at hand was to embark on a journey of self- expression by carefully selecting and customizing their avatars. With the guidance of the AIFED staff, attendees were taken through a step-by-step process, ensuring their avatars truly reflected their unique personalities. From choosing facial features to selecting attire and accessories, meticulous attention was paid to every detail, allowing participants to create virtual identities that felt authentic and representative. Following the avatar creation process, the AIFED staff generously shared their expertise, outlining the essential commands and functionalities necessary to navigate the virtual room. Participants eagerly absorbed the information, learning how to effortlessly traverse the immersive environment and engage with other attendees. From moving through virtual spaces to interacting with objects and engaging in virtual conversations, a whole new world of possibilities unfolded before their eyes. Moreover, the AIFED team shed light on the significance of selecting and creating personal avatars. They emphasized these virtual representations' potential impact in fostering connections and facilitating meaningful interactions in the metaverse. Participants were encouraged to establish a strong sense of presence and connections that transcend the digital realm by choosing avatars that resonate with their identities. This groundbreaking gathering served as a springboard, initiating professionals working with young people into the expansive realm of the metaverse. By offering a comprehensive introduction, the event aimed to equip attendees with the foundational knowledge and tools to navigate this virtual landscape confidently and purposefully. Through this event, the AIFED association underscored its commitment to harnessing the metaverse's transformative power in support of education, youth development, and the advancement of human connection.