Archives: Novice

6 October 2023 – The autumn season brings fresh opportunities for learning, career development, and innovation in various sectors. Within projects supported by the EEA and Norway Grants, a diverse range of free educational programs and workshops are prepared to take place in the coming months. These unique opportunities are designed for various target groups and cover a variety of topics, such as XR technology, career development, sustainable mobility, and support for education professionals working with individuals with autism.

XR Academy – Free Training in XR Technologies

Within the Think XR project, they invite you to a free training program in the field of XR (Extended Reality) technologies. The aim of this education is to train students and interested individuals who will be capable of working independently in the development of augmented and virtual reality projects, 3D design, video games, digital twin design, the Metaverse, and the use of XR technologies. The program will cover the following learning modules:

• Introduction to XR Technologies
• 3D Modeling and 3D Printing
• Unity Development for Augmented and Virtual Reality Projects
• User Experience (UX) and Design Thinking

Participants who successfully complete the course will have the opportunity to join the XR community network, which will provide training to high school students, college students, and interested individuals in the areas mentioned as part of the Think XR project. The education is free for participants, as it is funded by the Think XR project. The training, comprising approximately 40 hours, will be conducted in an intensive format, likely over several consecutive weekends, starting on October 12, 2023. Applications are being accepted until October 10, 2023.

More information about the XR Academy is available here.

The Think XR project is focused on developing a curriculum and new teaching modules in the field of augmented and virtual reality. This project, supported by the Norway Grants, involves the School Center Slovenske Konjice – Zreče as the project promoter and project partners including Technology Park Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering of University of Ljubljana, University of Primorska, HASHNET, Unior Forging Industry, and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.

Career Compass Camp

In the Posavje region, an exceptional opportunity is on the horizon for young people who wish to explore their career potentials and prepare for a successful entry into the world of work and education. The Career Compass Camp, organized as part of the Career Center Posavje project, will take place from November 2nd to 5th. It presents an opportunity for young people aged 16 to 29 who want to explore their career potentials and develop key skills for a successful future. Through various workshops, lectures, and visits to different companies, young participants will gain insights into various career options, develop communication skills, and build self-confidence and independence.

The camp will be held from November 2nd to 5th at the ZMŠ Krško Youth Hostel. To participate in the camp, please fill out the application form.

More information is available here.

The partners of the Career Center Posavje project are striving to improve access to education, mentoring, and career counselling. This project, supported by the Norway Grants, involves the Regional Development Agency Posavje as the project promoter and project partners including the Center for Youth and Sport Krško, Institute of Adult Education Krško, Regional Chamber of Craft and Small Business Krško, Krško Municipality, and Collective Innovation AS from Norway.”

SmartMOVE: Free Workshops on Sustainable Mobility for Companies

This autumn, SmartMOVE project is launching a series of free workshops where experts from different fields will present in an interesting and dynamic way key topics and opportunities for employers and employees to contribute to a more sustainable mobility, with great benefits for everyone, the community and the environment. The following workshops will be organized:”

• 11 October 2023: Introduction to Sustainable Mobility Implementation and Management in Businesses (Webinar)
• 25 October 2023: Parking Management and Optimized Car Use (Webinar)
• 8 November 2023: Business Mobility Management: Benefits for Employees, the Environment, and Business (Webinar)
• 22 November 2023: Health Aspects of Employee Mobility (Webinar)
• 18 January 2023: Best Practices and Experiences in Sustainable Mobility Management in Businesses and Institutions (In-Person Event)

By attending at least three of these educational sessions, you will receive a certificate of participation. You can register for your chosen sessions here. For more information, please visit www.smart-move.si or www.zds.si.

Invitation to a Series of Free Workshops for Companies on Sustainable Mobility (in Slovenian).

The SmartMOVE project addresses the challenge of sustainable mobility in high-traffic areas, specifically in the Ljubljana Urban Region (LUR) with the capital city of Ljubljana, which is the primary destination for daily migration flows in Slovenia. The SmartMOVE project, supported by the EEA Grants, involves the Regional Development Agency of the Ljubljana Urban Region as the project promoter and project partners Jožef Stefan Institute, Institute for Spatial Policies, Urban Institute of Ljubljana, Association of Employers of Slovenia, GoOpti, Center of Energy Efficiency Solutions and the Norwegian Nordland Research Institut.

VIS A VIS: A Model of Support for Employees in Education and Teaching

As part of the VIS A VIS project, they have developed a model that aims to develop new teaching and learning practices for the work and life of individuals with autism. This is done through the exchange of best practices among Slovenian project partners in collaboration with their Norwegian partner. With the support model, they provide a framework for implementing this support into daily practice for all stakeholders and decision-makers. The training programs are designed for principals, professionals in preschool education, primary education, music education, secondary education, boarding schools, higher vocational education, and higher education.

You can apply for various training sessions here.

More information is available here.

The VIS A VIS project aims to improve the conditions for learning and employability of individuals with autism at all levels of education and employment. The project, supported by the Norway Grants, involves Association of Non-Governmental Organizations for Autism in Slovenia as the project promoter and project partners Šentprima – institute for rehabilitation and education, Alma Mater Europaea – European center Maribor, Elementary School Kozara Nova Gorica, MIK international trading and manufacturing company, Ltd and Norwegian Fjæran-Granum’s Top Competence Service.

Heritage School for the New Generations: Workshop for Enhanced Inclusion of Cultural Heritage in Teaching Elementary School Subjects

As part of the Heritage School for the New Generations project, the second workshop for the inclusion of cultural heritage in elementary school teaching will take place on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, in the learning laboratory in Škofja Loka. Principals, teachers, and guidance counsellors from elementary schools are invited to attend.

The workshop aims to present the skills of renewal, professional knowledge, craft professions, and manual skills as important competencies for employment opportunities in the 21st century. It will also introduce draft lesson plans and new approaches for enhanced inclusion of cultural heritage in the regular teaching process in elementary schools.

For more information, please visit this link.

You can find the workshop program here.

As part of the Heritage School for the New Generations project, they are developing and testing new teaching practices for various subjects in elementary schools using examples of cultural heritage and the application of renewal skills within the school environment. This project, supported by the Norway Grants, involves the Association of Historic Towns of Slovenia as the project promoter and project partners University of Primorska, Institute for the Protection of Cultural Heritage of Slovenia, Elementary School Ivan Grohar, Municipality of Škofja Loka, MAGMA Geopark AS  from Norway, and the School Center Škofja Loka.

2 October 2 2023 – As part of the Think XR project, an event was organized on Tuesday, September 26, at the Noordung Center in Vitanje, where they established the national XR and Web4.0 partnership for the development of digital competencies. On this occasion, the Noordung Center introduced the 3D avatar of Herman Potočnik Noordung, supported by artificial intelligence, which addressed the audience, moderated parts of the event, and also answered questions from the participants. On this occasion, he also expressed gratitude to Luka Slapnik and Žiga Gobec, young artificial intelligence experts from Slovenske Konjice, who developed him under the mentorship of Aleš Pevc from the Technology Park Ljubljana.

Neža Pavlič Brečko, the director of the Noordung Center, welcomed the participants and announced that the digital avatar of Herman Potočnik Noordung would now be hosted at the center and would answer questions from visitors regarding space technology development. In the introductory part, Jasmina Mihelak Zupančič, the director of the School Center Slovenske Konjice Zreče, Dr. Jože Guna from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana, and Aleš Pevc from the Technology Park Ljubljana highlighted the activities of the Think XR project and presented the latest trends in the use of XR technologies in education and industry.

Anja Blaj, the President of Blockchain Think Tank Slovenia and a political advisor at Crypto Initiative Europe, presented the European Commission’s strategy in the field of Web4.0 and digital worlds. Following that, Tadej Slapnik from Hashnet introduced the main motivations for establishing the national partnership and the content of the memorandum that justifies its establishment. He emphasized that the primary goal of the partnership is to collaboratively shape a national XR strategy, through which partnership members will join forces to develop digital competencies in Slovenia. In the subsequent discussion, many participants expressed their support for the establishment of the partnership and shared their views and ideas for future activities.

The Think XR project, financially supported through the Norway Grants (Education, Scholarships, Apprenticeship and Youth Entrepreneurship programme) since July 1, 2022, represents an exceptional opportunity to enhance digital competencies and education in the field of Virtual and Augmented Reality (XR) technologies. The project is led by the School Center Slovenske Konjice-Zreče, in collaboration with the Technology Park Ljubljana, the University of Ljubljana, the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, the University of Primorska, the Faculty of Management, Hashnet d.o.o. company, Unior Forging Industry, and Norwegian partners from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). Together, they have combined their strengths and expertise to create a future built on XR technologies.

As part of the Think XR project, project partners have established a multidisciplinary team of experts to guide project activities. They conducted an analysis of the current state, needs, and trends in education and the economy. This analysis serves as a foundation for the development of new processes and program modules for education that will incorporate XR technologies. Within the Think XR project, demonstration centers for XR technologies have been established both in Slovenske Konjice and Ljubljana, equipped with state-of-the-art XR technology. Additionally, a 100-hour XR Academy program has been designed to enable teachers and mentors to acquire the necessary knowledge for teaching XR technologies. In the coming months, the project is preparing to implement the first pilot XR content for students, allowing them to gain new knowledge through modern XR technologies.

The Think XR project connects experts, educational institutions, mentors, companies, organizations, and leading experts in the field of Virtual and Augmented Reality (XR technologies) into an XR partnership for the development of digital competencies. The Think XR project is a step forward towards a digital future that will enrich our society and economy. Project partners express their gratitude to all partners and interested parties who enable the realization of this vision by signing the memorandum and joining the XR partnership.

Source: TP LJ

 

29 September 2023 – This autumn, SmartMOVE project is launching a series of free workshops where experts from different fields will present in an interesting and dynamic way key topics and opportunities for employers and employees to contribute to a more sustainable mobility, with great benefits for everyone, the community and the environment.

The SmartMOVE: Smart Solutions for Sustainable Mobility project addresses the challenge of sustainable mobility in high-traffic locations, in this case the Ljubljana Urban Region (LUR) with its capital city Ljubljana as the most important destination for daily migration flows in Slovenia. A free educational series will be launched in autumn, bringing together experts from different fields to present key topics and opportunities for employers and employees to contribute to sustainable mobility with positive impacts for all, including the community and the environment. The trainings will also be supported by video illustrations of topics and examples specifically designed for this purpose.

• 11 October 2023: Introduction to Sustainable Mobility Implementation and Management in Businesses (Webinar)
• 25 October 2023: Parking Management and Optimized Car Use (Webinar)
• 8 November 2023: Business Mobility Management: Benefits for Employees, the Environment, and Business (Webinar)
• 22 November 2023: Health Aspects of Employee Mobility (Webinar)
• 18 January 2023: Best Practices and Experiences in Sustainable Mobility Management in Businesses and Institutions (In-Person Event)

All webinars take place from 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM, while the in-person training is scheduled from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. By attending at least three of these educational sessions, you will receive a certificate of participation. You can register for your chosen sessions here. For more information, please visit www.smart-move.si or www.zds.si.

Invitation to a Series of Free Workshops for Companies on Sustainable Mobility (in Slovenian).

Descriptions of Workshops

Webinar: Introduction to Sustainable Mobility Implementation and Management in Businesses

Date: 11 October 2023, at 9:00 AM
Duration: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Companies and other institutions are important stakeholders in the planning and management of efficient urban transportation, as well as in promoting sustainable mobility. The introductory lecture will address tools that effectively and successfully address mobility within companies and institutions while also promoting cycling, the use of public transport, and more efficient car use, resulting in significant cost savings. The lecture will provide a detailed presentation of a mobility plan for institutions as a strategic document for assessing the current situation, establishing a vision, and outlining a set of sustainable mobility measures aimed at changing the commuting habits of employees.

Webinar: Parking Management and Optimized Car Use

Date: 25 October 2023, at 9:00 AM
Duration: 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM

Due to the frequent shortage of parking spaces compared to the number of cars, managing parking or parking lots is one of the key measures for changing the commuting habits of employees. In addition to promoting sustainable personal car use, companies can address cost reduction in the maintenance of parking lots, facilities, and surroundings through parking management measures. The lecture will present various measures related to parking management, comprehensive approaches to optimized car use, and innovative solutions in the field of sustainable employee mobility.

Webinar: Business Mobility Management: Benefits for Employees, the Environment, and Business

Date: 8 November 2023, at 9:00 AM
Duration: 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM

Sustainable mobility enables companies and employees to make more efficient use of working hours while reducing costs and environmental impact. By adopting sustainable mobility policies, companies can significantly reduce emissions, optimize traffic flows, and improve the lives of employees and city residents. The lecture will present various methods and challenges of managing business mobility, addressing the promotion of cultural changes within companies and the benefits for employees, the environment, business operations, and the transition of each company to carbon neutrality.

Webinar: Health Aspects of Employee Mobility

Date: 22 November 2023, at 9:00 AM
Duration: 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM

By promoting active commuting to work and raising awareness about the harmful effects of a sedentary lifestyle, we can significantly contribute to the overall health of employees. Active commuting to work (walking, cycling) reduces average annual sick leave and increases overall employee satisfaction. The lecture will present current findings on the impact of sustainable mobility on employee health and effective approaches to promoting health in companies and institutions.

In-person event: Best Practices and Experiences in Sustainable Mobility Management in Businesses and Institutions

Date: 18 January 2024, at 10:00 AM
Duration: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

During the training, numerous best practices, solutions, and experiences in addressing sustainable mobility in companies and institutions will be presented by representatives from these organizations. The training will be conducted in person, and further details will be published in the second half of October.

The SmartMOVE project, supported by the EEA Grants, involves the Regional Development Agency of the Ljubljana Urban Region as the project promoter and project partners Jožef Stefan Institute, Institute for Spatial Policies, Urban Institute of Ljubljana, Association of Employers of Slovenia, GoOpti, Center of Energy Efficiency Solutions and the Norwegian Nordland Research Institut.

28 September 2023 – The project ‘Studio of Circular Economy’ – studioKroG presents the concept of the Norwegian approach, which is based on a minimalist appearance and an approach without the use of virgin materials. At a press conference held on 26 September 2023 in Rogaška Slatina, the StudioKroG project and its innovative solutions were presented, focusing on the use of shipping containers in architecture and construction in the context of the circular economy. To better understand the advancement of the circular economy, they showcased individual spaces that serve as demonstrations of possible ways to use waste as resources.

The StudioKroG project, supported by the Norway Grants, is setting new standards for sustainability and reuse in these key sectors. During the press conference, speakers emphasized the importance of circular economy approaches in architecture, construction, and the development of our future. They presented their views and contributions to the development of the circular economy in Slovenia.

Mag. Bojan Pirš, the director of OKP Rogaška Slatina, a partner in the project, presented the purpose and significance of the StudioKroG project in his opening address. He highlighted the important role of local communities in shaping the future, as demonstrated by the investment that significantly contributes to a broader understanding and expertise in the field of circular resource usage. He recalled that the first reuse center in Slovenia started operating here in Rogaška Slatina 13 years ago. “Circular economy and reuse are both key concepts that focus on sustainable resource management and reducing environmental impact,” emphasized Mag. Pirš, the director of OKP. At the same time, he pointed out that the concept of reuse, which is implemented as a priority to minimize waste, complements the circular economy concept with a comprehensive approach, greater economic value of products, a sustainable and long-term solution to the increasing volume of waste, thereby contributing to addressing global challenges such as climate change and the depletion of natural resources.

At a press conference, Mr. Marko Koprivc, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development, emphasized the key role of the Ministry in promoting sustainable approaches and the importance of the circular economy. He highlighted key points such as support for sustainable development, as the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development is a key player in shaping policies that promote the sustainable development of Slovenia. This includes promoting practices that reduce environmental impact and increase the use of renewable resources, including through projects funded by the Norway Grants. He emphasized that a circular economy can contribute to local development, reduce regional inequalities, and create jobs.

Dr. Jure Kotnik, a world-renowned architect of container construction, presented the innovation of shipping containers in architecture and their key role in circular concepts. He highlighted that shipping containers represent an innovative opportunity in construction, not only recycling existing materials but also enabling the transformation of these industrial components into aesthetically pleasing and functional architectural structures. He emphasized their adaptability and possibilities for creative design. Dr. Kotnik stressed the universality of the modular approach to architecture and its potential in addressing various challenges faced by different societies. He concluded by emphasizing the inspiring aspects of container construction and its potential to shape a sustainable and aesthetically appealing future in architecture based on the principles of a circular economy. He encouraged reflection on how this approach can contribute to addressing global challenges such as climate change and pressures on natural resources.

Dr. Klavdija Rižnar, the project manager at ZRS Bistra Ptuj, presented the development and implementation of sustainable solutions using the example of the StudioKroG project. She highlighted the main objectives of the project, including its contribution to sustainable construction, promoting a circular economy, and improving the quality of life in local communities. She emphasized how the project is directing its efforts towards achieving these objectives. Dr. Rižnar also discussed how the StudioKroG project represents the first demonstration center for the circular economy, showcasing the reuse of used shipping containers as building elements and the concrete reuse and redesign of waste materials for both the interior and exterior of the mobile StudioKroG unit. She pointed out that sustainable solutions are tailored to the specific needs and environmental challenges of local environments, which adds value to the StudioKroG project.

Dr. Marinka Vovk, the head of Investment at StudioKrog, the Reuse Center, guided participants through the practical implementation of circular concepts, emphasizing circular approaches. She spoke about the new trends and approaches used by the StudioKroG project, such as energy efficiency, the use of renewable energy sources, waste design, industrial symbiosis, waste minimization, and promoting motivation to enhance understanding of the circular economy through practical examples. She supported the idea that StudioKrog represents the greatest opportunity for improving the understanding of the circular economy by demonstrating the entire process, from the acquisition of surplus shipping containers that accumulate in ports and warehouses due to globalization to addressing the global issue of textile waste through technological solutions like textile insulation. Additionally, she discussed the transformation of used and surplus building furniture and equipment into functional products. She mentioned that both investment locations are new demonstration centers with “nothing new” in terms of materials, featuring green roofs, solar panels, textile insulation, and exemplifying the concrete application of resource circularity.

Polona Kukovec Lakota from Research and Development Center RRC Ormož summarized the key findings of the awareness raising on circular economy and carbon footprint reduction. She emphasized the importance of environmental education in increasing people’s awareness of environmental issues, leading to more sustainable decisions. She highlighted the significance of conducting awareness campaigns targeting various stakeholder groups, with more than 800 participants involved in the first year.

To demonstrate that the StudioKroG project is not just theory but effective practice, conference attendees had the opportunity to enter the packaging that containers provide and observe three 12-meter and one 6-meter shipping containers arranged both vertically and horizontally (100 m2). In practice, they were convinced that the use of shipping container architecture enables the efficient utilization of existing resources, promotes sustainable construction, and contributes to waste reduction and environmental impact reduction, which is crucial for the circular economy.

Source: ZRS Bistra Ptuj

28 September 2023 – This week, the EEA and Norway Grants exhibition came to the EU Parliament, setting the spotlight on our impactful projects. Common for all of them is the objective of a greener, more democratic and inclusive Europe.

The exhibition Our Stories. The EEA and Norway Grants, which highlight the contribution of Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway to the social and economic development of Europe, is displayed at the EU Parliament from 26 – 29 September. The photo exhibition features key projects and results from the current funding period and is hosted by MEP Christel Schaldemose in cooperation with the Mission of Norway to the European Union.

“We are proud of the Grants. They may appear modest but they are substantial. The EEA and Norway Grants complement EU funds and produce solid results in the Beneficiary States. The EEA and Norway Grants fund more than 6,000 projects. Thanks to these projects, know-how is shared, institutional capacity is strengthened, green house gas emissions are reduced, our environments are protected, and bilateral cooperation is strengthened,” says Anders Eide, Ambassador (Designate) of Norway to the EU.

Working together

Our Stories. The EEA and Norway Grants, showcases the impact of the more than 6,600 projects that have been made a reality through partnerships between people, businesses, and public institutions in the Donor and Beneficiary States. The projects that are exhibited at the European Parliament also contribute to strengthening bilateral relations across Europe. Find out more about our partnerships here.

A total of €2,8 billion have been allocated by the three Donors Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway in the current funding period.

Ragna Fidjestøl, Managing Director of the Financial Mechanism Office, the secretariat for the EEA and Norway Grants, is clear on what makes the #OurStories exhibition important:

“The exhibition is a showcase of the inspiring stories behind the projects funded by the EEA and Norway Grants. Visitors can expect to see real-world examples of how these projects have made a difference in the beneficiary states, improving lives, protecting the environment and strengthening the ties between our countries. It’s a testament to the impact of our collaborative efforts and the power of working together for a better Europe.”

Solidarity with Ukraine

One of the stories highlighted in the exhibition is the story of Svitlana Zaluznha and the TULA project. When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the mother of three was forced to flee her home country with her family and relocate to Lithuania. Quickly seeing a need for integration of people displaced by the war, Svitlana got engaged in the Tula Project.

Supported by the EEA and Norway Grants, the TULA project aims to help Ukrainians displaced by the war in Lithuania with healing, reconciliation, and integration into a new environment. The goal is to rebuild people and families broken by the war, and to prepare them mentally for the return to Ukraine when the war ends. “The story of our partnership is a story of trust, responsiveness, and determination. In spring 2022, the EEA and Norway Grants trusted us and our ideas. Thanks to the Grants and a recent round of refunding, we happily continue our work – and we’re committed to keep up the momentum with the same passion and creativity,” explains Svitlana.

Stories that matter

The exhibition also marks the start of #OurStories, a campaign telling the stories behind the programmes and projects that are supported through the EEA and Norway Grants. The projects showcase the objective of the Grants and their impact on the ground – helping make Europe greener, more democratic and inclusive.

Find out more about our projects here and the EEA and Norway Grants programmes here.

Source: Financial Mechanism Office

22 September 2023 – As part of the PreseNEETi se project, the Norwegian delegation visited Celje, Ljubljana, and Maribor between September 12th and 14th, 2023, to learn about best practices in working with young people facing mental health challenges and the NEET population (individuals aged up to 29 who are not in education, employment, or training).

Last year’s study visit to Norway in the framework of the PreseNEETi se project, supported by the Norway Grants, unexpectedly brought the first concrete results in the field of strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries, which were not even foreseen in the application itself. The University for Adult Education Celje hosted a Norwegian delegation from the organisation From Victim to Warrior, which the Slovenian partners met during their study visit to Norway. Remarkably, the Norwegians, of their own initiative, reciprocated the visit.

Over three days, eight representatives from the organisation and the local authority of Hå, near Stavanger, were given presentations on organisations and institutes working with young people up to the age of 29. The guests first got an insight into the work of the University for Adult Education Celje, including the PreseNEETi se project, and other youth work programmes. They also met young people and their mentors in the PUM-O+ programme, visited the Institute Vir, and were impressed by the “This is Me” programme of the National Institute of Public Health.

In Ljubljana, the members of the Norwegian delegation learned about the work of Slovenian Philanthropy and the importance of volunteering. They also visited the Borc Community Centre, which operates under the auspices of the public institution Young Dragons On the last day, they spent the day at Vetrinjski dvor in Maribor with Katarina Babič and Katja Sreš learning about social entrepreneurship. There was also a workshop for processing impressions and reflecting on the visit itself, facilitated by the Norwegian partner in the project, Veiledernettverket NOSCO, via the Zoom platform, during which the guests emphasised that the organised programme had exceeded their high expectations. The day ended with a pleasant social gathering and a discussion on the next steps of cooperation.

The exchange of experiences between Norway and Slovenia showed that both countries face the same challenges when working with young people with mental health problems. It is encouraging to see that both countries focus on empowering young people and strengthening their identity, rather than just diagnosing them. In both countries, the importance of working with the family environment of young people is also significant.

The PreseNEETi project partners have proved over the past days that Norwegians can learn a lot from them too. The Norwegian delegation returned home with a wealth of new ideas and a desire for further collaboration in the field of working with young people facing mental health challenges and for whom the conventional system may not be suitable. Similarly, Slovenian project partners, University for Adult Education Celje, the University of Maribor, the Employment Service of the Republic of Slovenia, and the Slovenian Youth Council, are also looking forward to further cooperation and engagement in this important field.

Author: University for Adult Education Celje, PreseNEETi se Project Promoter

21 September 2023 – As part of the Predjama Sustainable project, which is supported by the EEA Grants, the performance of the implemented measures of the Mobility Plan has been verified. The results of the follow-up monitoring have shown an increase in the use of sustainable mobility solutions in the Predjama tourist destination area.

The common goal of the project partners, including the Municipality of Postojna, Postojna Cave, IPOP, and the Municipality of Strand from Norway, is to develop solutions for the heavy traffic loads caused by visitors to the village of Predjama and, at the same time, increase the use of sustainable form of mobility by 5 percentage points. After one year of repeated monitoring of traffic and tourist flows in the Predjama tourist destination, the results have confirmed the success of the implemented mobility plan measures. The use of sustainable mobility solutions has actually increased by 12 percentage points, surpassing the desired goal.

How was the repetition monitoring of daily visits to Predjama conducted?

In the survey regarding tourist visits to Predjama, the same method as last year was employed. They recorded the arrivals and departures of vehicles and visitors from Predjama within a single day, and then compared this data with the previous year’s figures. The counting took place on a sunny day, August 8, 2023, chosen for its comparable weather conditions to the previous year. Despite the high season in August, this choice aimed to represent a typical day rather than the peak of the tourist season, as it was found that cloudy and rainy weather attracts more visitors.

The counting took place from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM at the upper parking lot in Predjama and by the Church of Sorrowful Mother of God. Vehicles were physically recorded in pre-prepared tables, where entry and exit times, vehicle type, and the number of occupants were noted. The registration number served as an identifier for the vehicles, which were divided into different categories, including cars, vans, motorhomes, motorbikes, buses, bicycles, as well as pedestrians. Distinguishing pedestrians who walked from the parking lot to the castle from those who walked all the way to Predjama Castle was challenging. The counting was carried out by six local high school students and college students in two shifts. The results of this study are essential for understanding tourist visits to Predjama and monitoring changes in visitation over time.

What changes were implemented during the one-year period?

This tourist season, changes have been introduced in Predjama to increase sustainable visits without reducing tourist arrivals. The main measures were implemented in the framework of the Predjama Sustainable project. Parking prices were changed in the car parks, with gates in the lower car park and hourly payment via a parking meter, depending on the time of stay in Predjama. Daily parking charges in other car parks have increased slightly.

To promote the use of the shuttle bus, the offer has been extended to two additional routes. One of these routes is free and funded by the Predjama Sustainable project, operating outside the summer season. The second route operates between Planina and Predjama during the high tourist season (July, August). The bus line between Postojna Cave and Predjama remains unchanged and is flexible according to needs.

New cycling and walking routes were marked and environmental statements in three languages were produced to raise visitor awareness of sustainable mobility. A website and advertising on social media and Google were also introduced to encourage visitors to use sustainable modes of transport. Interactive displays inside the Park attracted visitors’ attention and directed caravan drivers to the shuttle bus. Parking controls were increased, and safety fences were installed along the road between Pristava and Predjama.

What were the results of the monitoring?

In this year’s monitoring in Predjama, 858 vehicles were recorded, but they did not consider 81 vehicles (9%) that immediately turned around, as well as vehicles of local residents and employees (2%). Therefore, the final number of vehicles counted was 756. On the day of the monitoring, there were 170 fewer vehicles and 191 more visitors in Predjama compared to the previous year. Despite the 120 fewer cars, they still accounted for 78% of all vehicles, and they were characterized by higher occupancy (2.7 passengers per car) and contributed to 53% of all visitors.

Vans transported 5% of the visitors, with 45 vans and 148 passengers, which is the same percentage as last year, but the occupancy was slightly lower (an average of 3.3 people per vehicle). There were 32 fewer camper vans and motorhomes than last year (34) with 93 passengers (3% of visitors). Occupancy was similar to cars, with 2.7 people per vehicle, but higher than last year. Motorcyclists are more challenging to track, but 26 motorcycles with 54 passengers were recorded (2% of visitors). There were 24 buses, including 18 shuttle buses, carrying 1052 passengers (35% of all visitors), which is considerably more than last year. The average visit duration for visitors who arrived by car, camper van, or motorcycle was 1 hour and 35 minutes, which is almost the same as last year.

Ten cyclists were recorded, including children in child seats, which is fewer than last year. The number of pedestrians walking to Predjama increased by 2 percentage points, but there is a possibility of measurement error.

If we sum up sustainable forms of mobility – pedestrians, cyclists, and bus passengers, a total of 1,137 individuals, or 38% of visitors, reached Predjama Castle sustainably. This is 12 percentage points higher than last year when there were 26% sustainable visitors. Therefore, the goal of the Predjama Sustainable project (improving the use of sustainable forms of mobility for accessing Predjama by at least 5 percentage points) has been achieved.

Key findings

A significantly larger proportion of visitors arrived in Predjama by buses rather than cars and campervans. By managing traffic on the way to and in Predjama, providing alternatives to cars, and communicating them, it is possible to transport the same or even more people to Predjama with fewer vehicles. These measures do not impact the number and duration of visits to Predjama.

Source: Municipality of Postojna

20 September 2023 – The project has produced documents to support education staff and employers in the inclusion and employment of people with autism.

As there is a lack of support for people with autism at national level, the VIS A VIS project is building a model for linking stakeholders at local and national level and increasing the competences of teachers, trainers and employers to work and collaborate with people with autism. Through institutional cooperation, the project contributes to creating a safe, creative, open, interactive, innovative and stimulating environment for people with autism, modernises approaches to teaching them and contributes to improving their employment prospects.

The project provides education and training for the above mentioned target groups and is in the process of a pilot employment of a person with autism with one of the project partners.

The project provides useful materials for education professionals and employers who work with people with autism. The documents are in Slovenian language, available via the following links:

• Model of support for school professionals
• Model of support for employers in the employment of people with autism

The VIS A VIS project is supported by the Norway Grants under the programme Education, Scholarships, Apprenticeship and Youth Entrepreneurship. The project involves Association of Non-Governmental Organizations for Autism in Slovenia as the project promoter and project partners Šentprima – institute for rehabilitation and education, Alma Mater Europaea – European center Maribor, Elementary School Kozara Nova Gorica, MIK international trading and manufacturing company, Ltd and Norwegian Fjæran-Granum’s Top Competence Service.

18 September 2023 – As part of the NovIKroG project, supported by the Norway Grants, waste batteries and plastic packaging were collected in schools, kindergartens, and other public institutions in the Dolenjska region between May 1st and June 16th, 2023. Participating schools and kindergartens collected 282.2 kg of packaging waste. Useful waste packaging was given a new purpose, resulting in the creation of 70 didactic toys and 500 bookmarks for kindergartens.

Participating schools and kindergartens received certificate of participation and sample products made from the collected waste packaging during an event held on September 14, 2023, at the premises of the Podbreznik Business Incubator. The event was opened by the Director of the Novo mesto Development Centre, Franci Bratkovič, who pointed out that the Development Centre is setting up a Circular Innovation Centre as part of the NovIKroG project. The main purpose of this centre is to introduce the principles of circular public procurement to public institutions and businesses actively participating in the local community, with the goal of establishing a circular economy concept and efficient management of closed material loops. He concluded by stressing the need to act sustainably, where the first step is to reduce energy and raw material consumption.

Mojca Žganec Metelko, a representative from Knofa, presented the results of the collection campaign during the event, which aimed to close material loops in the local environment. This means that materials that would otherwise end up as waste are either reused or transformed into objects that participating organizations can put to good use. In total, 282.2 kg of packaging waste was collected, including 84.20 kg of unsuitable packaging or other types of waste, indicating the need for greater awareness of different types of plastic waste. The remaining 198 kg of plastic waste were reprocessed in the FabLab KNOF using various technological processes, given new purpose, and turned into 70 didactic toys and 500 bookmarks. These products will be given to the kindergartens and schools that took part in the collection campaign. The products are made from 100% recycled plastic, representing a significant step towards sustainable thinking and material reuse. During the event, representatives from schools and kindergartens already received sample products and awards for their participation in the collection campaign.

The main purpose of the collection campaign was to raise awareness about plastic recycling possibilities and at the same time to educate people about the importance of local material loops. The NoviKroG project partners aimed to encourage children to think about the fate of waste after disposal and find solutions for the continuous circulation of materials in our environment. With this campaign, they wanted to test the challenges and opportunities of implementing functioning material loops in the local environment, contributing to the promotion of sustainable waste management practices in our community.

The NovIKroG project involves the City Municipality of Novo mesto as the project promoter, and project partners include the Faculty of Industrial Engineering Novo mesto, the Development Centre Novo mesto, KNOF social enterprise, Public utility company Novo mesto, and Nord University from Norway. You can follow the project on the website novikrog.si.

Source: NovIKroG project

14 September 2023 – The European Mobility Week, with the theme “Save Energy”, will traditionally take place from 16 to 22 September. It will promote energy reduction in transportation and place a national focus on removing obstacles in pedestrian and cyclist areas. Sustainable mobility is also being pursued through projects carried out under the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Programme. One of them is the ReMOBIL project: Regional Centres of Mobility, which will actively participate in European Mobility Week.

The main objective of the ReMOBIL project the long-term reduction of the negative environmental effects of transportation resulting from the lack of sustainable mobility solutions at the local, regional, and national levels, as well as the long-term improvement of sustainable mobility management. Through the transfer of best practices from abroad, the project partners are prioritising the establishment of effective sustainable mobility planning in the regions involved in the project. To this end, they have designed a model for regional mobility management and developed guidelines for mobility management at regional level as well as recommendations for harmonisation of legislation. The model will be tested in the context of the six Regional Mobility Centres to be set up under the project.

Are you tired of traffic jams? But you can also ride a bike!

The project partner RRA LUR invites you to a roundtable discussion titled “Are you tired of traffic jams? But you can also ride a bike!” The roundtable is part of the Future Zero event and will take place on Saturday, September 16, 2023, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Congress Square in Ljubljana. The roundtable will discuss how more people could commute to work without a car and what new cycling and railway connections can be expected in the coming years.

The Future Zero event promises lots of fun, the opportunity to test various e-vehicles, and even a balance bike race for the youngest participants. RRA LUR will be promoting their favourite choice – cycling! It’s especially worthwhile to ride your bike to the event because you can leave your bike for repairs with a mechanic on-site anytime between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM while enjoying the fair activities. Through a fun challenge, you can win beautiful and useful products, and there will also be an e-bike available for you to experience just how comfortable it makes riding!

Invitation to the roundtable discussion “Are you tired of traffic jams? But you can also ride a bike!” (in Slovenian).

Day of Cycling and Lecture on Sustainable Mobility in the Karst Region

As part of the European Mobility Week 2023, the project partner Regional Development Center Koper, acting as the Regional Mobility Center Istra Brkini Kras, is organizing a day of cycling and a lecture on sustainable mobility in order to promote sustainable transportation and raise awareness of the importance of more efficient modes of travel. This event will take place on Wednesday, September 20, and Friday, September 22, 2023. On September 20, 2023, they will introduce the Regional Mobility Center Istra Brkini Kras. The program is available here (in Slovenian).

Test Drives with Electric Wheelchairs and E-Scooters in the Gorenjska Region

The project partner Regional Development Agency of Gorenjska has prepared a program for the European Mobility Week, including presentations and test drives with electric wheelchairs, e-scooters, and other aids. These activities, in collaboration with municipalities and elderly care homes, will be held on Saturday, September 16, in the courtyard of the Municipality of Tržič, on September 20 at the Dom Petra Uzarja Tržič – Unit Naklo, and on Friday, September 22, 2023, at the Retirement Home Kranj.

They will conduct a pilot cycling relay with selected groups of senior citizens’ associations to promote and connect the bicycle-sharing system Gorenjska.bike, the Gorenjska cycling network, and public transportation. Simultaneously, the teams will also identify blackspots on the proposed routes.

As part of the “Shopping by Bike” initiative, they will visit three Gorenjska farms specializing in organic food production to promote local food and shorter supply chains. Shopping trips are scheduled to take place between September 22 and October 6, depending on weather conditions. More information is available here or here (in Slovenian).

Cycling for a Good Cause

The Posočje Development Center, in collaboration with the Municipality of Tolmin, invites you to a charity cycling and hiking event on Saturday, September 16, 2023. The Municipality of Tolmin will convert the kilometres cycled and walked by all participants into a donation for school funds. A police officer on a bike will also accompany the cyclists. More information is available here.

 

The ReMOBIL project, supported by the EEA Grants,  involves the Posočje Development Center as the project lead and project partners: the Regional Development Agency of the Ljubljana Urban Region, BSC Kranj – Regional Development Agency of Gorenjska, the Regional Development Center Koper, the Regional Development Agency for Podravje – Maribor, RRA Koroška, the Regional Development Agency for the Koroška region, AMZS, the Ljubljana Urban Planning Institute, and the Norwegian partner Viken fylkesmommune / Viken County Council.