Mes: julio 2020

“This unprecedented crisis needs an unprecedented answer. One that will serve us today and for many years to come. Today, the European Commission calls on EU Member States to invest in skills” said Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President for Promoting the European Way of Life.

Skills became fundamental for the digital transition and the green economy to develop in these next years, a key factor that will help us recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

In this framework is necessary, more than ever, to restart and to focus on actions that contribute to foster transversal skills needed and requested on the labour market, such as: teamwork, digital competences, communication, creativity, working in multicultural environment, autonomy, responsability, leadership, problem solving, ecc.

It is in this context that the European Skills Agenda for sustainable competitiveness, social fairness and resilience was created and presented in July 2020, an agenda made out of 12 points that sets ambitious objectives for skilling to be achieved within the next 5 years.

The 12 actions, that will allow us to train new skills and to improve existing skills, placing them at the heart of the EU policy agenda, are the following:

  1. A Pact for Skills
  2. Strengthening skills intelligence
  3. EU support for strategic national upskilling action
  4. Proposal for a Council Recommendation on Vocational Education and Training for sustainable competitiveness, social fairness and resilience
  5. Rolling out the European universities initiative and upskilling scientists
  6. Skills to support the green and digital transitions
  7. Increasing STEM graduates and fostering entrepreneurial and transversal skills
  8. Skills for Life
  9. Initiative on Individual Learning Accounts
  10. A European approach to micro-credentials
  11.  New Europass Platform
  12. Improving the enabling framework to unlock Member States’ and private investments in skills

This actions are foreseen to create 540 million training activities for adults by 2025, including 60 million for low-qualified adults, and 40 million for unemployed people. The number of adults with basic digital skills should increase to 230 million. By reaching these stakeholders the European Commission aims to  ensure that the right to training and lifelong learning becomes a reality all across Europe, from cities to remote and rural areas, to the benefit of everyone.

It is within this framework that the new Europass Platform was launched and the Proposal for a Council Recommendation on vocational education and training was adopted by the European Commission.

Next step on the list is the Pact for Skills, foreseen to be launch in November 2020. The other points  will be brought forward in the coming months.

For further information on the European Skills Agenda visit the European Commission website.

 

Reasons to spend your Erasmus experience in Valencia: Las Fallas

Valencia offers an ideal setting for your Erasmus adventure, boasting the status of Spain’s third-largest city with a pleasant climate and less congestion compared to other major cities like Madrid or Barcelona. The city’s year-round sunny weather and easy access to beaches make it an enticing destination. If you’re considering Valencia for your Erasmus experience, there’s one compelling reason that stands out: Las Fallas.

Las Fallas is a traditional festival in Valencia, renowned worldwide and recognized as a ‘Festival of International Tourist Interest’ and part of the ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.’ This celebration is a must-see experience, showcasing elaborate monuments and vibrant festivities.

Monuments of Fallas

Originally stemming from ancient carpenters’ traditions, Las Fallas has evolved into grand structures made of cork and wood frames, reaching heights of up to 30 meters. These monuments feature central figures surrounded by ‘ninots,’ incorporating elements of humor and satire reflecting current events.

What to Expect During Las Fallas

Las Fallas is not just a local event but a global spectacle, with unique aspects often overlooked. The festival’s name originates from medieval torches known as ‘fallas,’ used in the city’s watchtowers. While Valencia is the festival’s epicenter, other places like Argentina also celebrate their version of Las Fallas. The festival’s duration has expanded since 1932, spanning from March 15th to 19th, with activities starting as early as February.

Mascletàs and Other Highlights

The festival’s signature mascletàs offer a daily display of rhythmic firecrackers at Town Hall Square, reaching intensities exceeding 120 decibels. The plantà marks the official placement of monuments for judging, while the ofrenda sees ‘falleras’ presenting flowers to the ‘Virgen de los Desamparados,’ creating a stunning tapestry. The grand finale, cremà, involves burning the monuments to ashes, symbolizing the end of the festival.

Experience Las Fallas

For those embarking on an Erasmus journey in Valencia during Las Fallas, essential experiences include exploring the monuments, indulging in local delicacies like fritters or churros with chocolate, witnessing breathtaking fireworks displays, and strolling through illuminated streets in Ruzafa.

Key Activities During Las Fallas

  • Crida: Last Sunday of February
  • Mascletàs: March 1st to March 19th
  • Plantà: March 16th
  • Ofrenda: March 17th and 18th
  • Nit del foc: March 18th
  • Cremà: March 19th

 

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and unforgettable experiences of Las Fallas, making your Erasmus adventure in Valencia truly memorable.