EU Education & Dialogue; Growing Perspectives

forthcoming

EUGROW – EU Education & Dialogue: Growing Perspectives EUGROW enhances EU knowledge in the agri-food sector by integrating structured EU education and dialogue into Aeres University of Applied Sciences (Aeres UAS). The project bridges the gap between agricultural professionals, policymakers, and agribusiness stakeholders, providing a deeper understanding of EU governance, sustainability policies, and regulations. A 2 ECTS EU course, in physical and online formats, fosters International Online Collaboration (IOC), enabling Aeres students to engage with international peers in EU policy projects and virtual dialogues. EU dialogue sessions, integrated into Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs) and International Weeks, involve students, policymakers, and agribusiness professionals. A study visit to Brussels offers direct exposure to EU institutions and decision-making. Objectives 1. Enhance EU knowledge by embedding a 2 ECTS EU course into Aeres UAS bachelor programs. 2. Strengthen teacher capacity through EU policy and dialogue training. 3. Foster societal dialogue among students, policymakers, and agribusiness professionals. 4. Raise awareness of EU benefits and promote European citizenship through education and collaboration. Expected Impact • Short-term (Year 1): Increased EU knowledge, first EU dialogues and Brussels visit, stronger engagement among students, farmers, and policymakers. • Medium-term (1-5 years): Institutionalization of the EU course, expansion of IOC with partner universities, enhanced cooperation in agri-food policy. • Long-term (5+ years): Sustained EU education integration, creation of a permanent EU dialogue platform, and improved policy adoption. The project aligns with Jean Monnet’s objectives, embedding EU studies in higher education, fostering policy dialogue, and strengthening academic, civil, and institutional collaborations.