Citizenship education is not about acquiring knowledge; it is about shaping values, fostering critical thinking, and nurturing active citizens. It is the antidote to the skepticism and populism growing throughout Europe (EIB Vice-President Vigliotti, 2024), grounded in the core values of the European Union, as outlined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) —respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and human rights, including the rights of minorities— citizenship education promotes a society characterised by pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity, and gender equality. To achieve these aims, citizenship education focuses on preparing students to become active, informed, and responsible citizens. This involves equipping them with the necessary competencies to contribute to the development and well-being of society. Active citizenship education emphasises practical experiences, encouraging active participation in social, political, and civic life (EECUEA, 2017).

Secondary and IVET educators are key factors in this process. They require robust training and support to effectively nurture the next generation of democratic citizens. Cross-cultural collaboration can encourage mutual understanding, respect, and active participation in democratic processes. eTwinning enhances awareness of cultural diversity and shared European heritage but also equips teachers and students with skills for responsible, inclusive global citizenship. In 2023, the Council Conclusions on the role of education and training in promoting common European values and democratic citizenship, highlighted, besides other topics, the contribution of eTwinning and the European School Education Platform in strengthening shared European values and fostering EU democratic citizenship, as well as the importance of continuously reinforcing, disseminating and supporting these initiatives.

Goal of the workshop

Acknowledging the crucial role that schools play in shaping young minds and nurturing democratic values, this workshop aims to provide secondary and IVET teachers with the knowledge, strategies, and resources needed to effectively incorporate citizenship education into their teaching practice. By empowering teachers to promote self-awareness, civic engagement, and inclusivity, we strive to cultivate a generation of responsible and active citizens who will contribute to a brighter future for all.

The objectives of this onsite workshop include:

• Strengthening teachers' knowledge of democratic principles, civic processes, and the importance of citizenship education in fostering social cohesion and inclusivity.
• Equipping teachers with innovative tools, techniques, and resources to effectively integrate citizenship education into their curricula and classroom practices.
• Empowering teachers to create inclusive classrooms that respect diversity, promote equity, and encourage active student participation in civic life.
• Building teachers’ confidence and leadership in delivering citizenship education, supported by lesson planning, best practices, and hands-on activities.
• Facilitating the exchange of ideas, experiences, and resources, fostering a community of educators committed to cultivating active and responsible citizens.