Transnational meeting at Panevėžys: driving the future of inclusive tourism
On April 14th, our team embarked on a significant journey to Panevėžys, Lithuania, for a crucial transnational meeting. The goal of this meeting was to further strengthen the future direction of the DIVETOUR2 project. Our diverse team, comprising dedicated educators and tech experts, traveled from Italy and Portugal, and were warmly welcomed by our Lithuanian hosts.
Reflecting the core values of the DIVETOUR2 project, our heterogeneous team showcased a strong balance in gender, age, professional competence, and a rich tapestry of attitudes and personal experiences. This diversity is fundamental to our mission of fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within vocational education in tourism.
Two productive days at Panevėžys
We spent two productive days in Panevėžys – April 15th and 16th – focused on solidifying the project’s main concepts and values. Our primary mission was to concretize how DIVETOUR2 will contribute to the future of vocational education and training (VET) in tourism through DEI, powered by the transformative potential of Generative Artificial Intelligence. We envision VET students learning to effectively leverage these cutting-edge technologies, ultimately becoming future champions of inclusive tourism practices.
The working sessions, held at the PMC venue, were dynamic and engaging. We participated in a whirlwind of insightful presentations and collaborative brainstorming sessions. During these sessions, we evaluated the progress made thus far, and we delved into the specific details of our planned learning modules, which thoughtfully integrate both DEI and GenAI principles. Furthermore, we critically assessed the developed strategies for the DIVETOUR2 game.
Cross-cultural exchange and shared learning
A significant aspect of our transnational meeting involved the exchange of best practices from our respective countries. We considered the latest discussions and developments surrounding both DEI and GenAI within our national contexts. These diverse perspectives ignited lively discussions, primarily focusing on understanding students’ evolving needs, developing effective engagement strategies, and leveraging our collective transversal competence.
Experiencing the hospitality of Panevėžys
Our experience in Panevėžys extended far beyond the formal meeting room, thanks to the incredible hospitality extended by our Lithuanian hosts. They eagerly shared the unique charm of Panevėžys and the rich cultural heritage of their country with us. We enjoyed leisurely walks along the Nevėžis River, admiring the captivating art installations that dotted the cityscape, and we explored the city’s newest cultural attractions: the impressive Panevėžys Creativity Center and the insightful Stasys museum.
One memorable evening was spent at a traditional Lithuanian restaurant. While savoring the delicious Lithuanian gastronomy, conversations flowed effortlessly, moving beyond specific project details to personal stories and shared experiences. We gained valuable insights into Lithuanian culture, their remarkable resilience, and their warm hospitality. It was during these moments, sharing a meal and collectively discovering the city, that the true essence of our transnational meeting came to life. The transnational aspect transcended mere logistics, evolving into a rich and meaningful mosaic of shared cultural understanding.
Looking ahead: a shared vision for inclusive tourism
As our transnational meeting concluded, we departed with more than just tangible project deliverables. We carried with us a deeper and more nuanced understanding of DEI within a broader European context, a solidified shared vision for the pivotal role of GenAI in shaping the future of inclusive tourism, and, perhaps most importantly, genuine and lasting connections forged through meaningful collaboration and the shared discovery of a common European cultural heritage.
The DIVETOUR2 project has undoubtedly gained a new dimension, infused with the collaborative spirit of the Erasmus+ Program and the genuine warmth of the Lithuanian people. Our time in Panevėžys served as a powerful reminder that true innovation often flourishes when diverse perspectives converge, not only within the confines of a meeting room but also through the enriching experience of exploring a new place and embracing a different culture.
