In this lesson, we will explore the three key actions of the Erasmus+ programme in detail. Each key action represents a specific type of activity and funding opportunity designed to support different aspects of youth engagement and development. Understanding these key actions will help your organization identify the most suitable opportunities and effectively plan and implement projects under the Erasmus+ Youth framework.
Key Action 1: Learning Mobility of Individuals
Key Action 1 (KA1) focuses on providing opportunities for young people and youth workers to participate in learning experiences abroad. This includes:
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Youth Exchanges: Short-term exchanges that bring together groups of young people from different countries to live and work together on a common project or theme. Activities can range from workshops and cultural events to outdoor activities and community projects. These exchanges help young people develop key skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
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Youth Participation Activities: These initiatives promote active engagement and democratic participation among young people. Activities can include workshops, debates, simulations of democratic processes, and other participatory events. These activities aim to empower young people to take an active role in their communities and influence decision-making processes.
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DiscoverEU Inclusion Action: This initiative provides travel opportunities for young people, particularly those with fewer opportunities, to discover Europe. It aims to promote cultural understanding and a sense of European identity. Organizations can apply to support groups of young people in these travel experiences, ensuring they gain meaningful insights and learning outcomes from their journeys.
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Training and Networking for Youth Workers: Professional development opportunities for those who work with young people, including training courses, seminars, and job shadowing experiences. These activities help youth workers enhance their skills and knowledge, improving the quality of youth work across Europe.
Key Action 2: Cooperation for Innovation and the Exchange of Good Practices
Key Action 2 (KA2) supports collaborative projects that aim to innovate and share best practices in youth work. This includes:
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Strategic Partnerships: Collaborative projects between youth organizations, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to develop new methods and tools in youth work. These partnerships foster innovation and the sharing of best practices across Europe.
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Knowledge Alliances: Partnerships between higher education institutions and businesses to foster innovation and address skills gaps. These alliances help bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that young people are equipped with the skills needed in the job market.
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Capacity Building: Projects aimed at strengthening the capacity of youth organizations, particularly in partner countries outside Europe. Capacity-building projects help organizations improve their structures, processes, and capabilities, enhancing their ability to support young people effectively.
Key Action 3: Support for Policy Reform
Key Action 3 (KA3) aims to engage young people in shaping youth policies and promoting dialogue with policymakers. This includes:
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Youth Dialogue: Initiatives that bring young people and policymakers together to discuss and influence youth policies. Youth dialogue projects help ensure that the voices of young people are heard in policy discussions.
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Policy Innovation: Projects that test and implement new approaches in youth work and policy development. These projects contribute to the ongoing evolution of youth policies, ensuring they remain relevant and effective in addressing the needs of young people.
By understanding the three key actions of Erasmus+, your organization can identify the most appropriate opportunities to engage with and support young people. Each key action offers unique benefits and possibilities, allowing your organization to tailor its approach to meet the specific needs of your participants and community. In the next lessons, we will explore the concepts of formal and non-formal learning and the tangible benefits of participating in Erasmus+ Youth projects, highlighting the positive impact on both individuals and organizations.