On October 16th, the AIRinVET Symposium, "Made in VET – Applied Research and Innovation," took place at Tknika in Donostia-San Sebastián (Basque Country, Spain). The event, which showcased the findings of multiple European projects, brought together experts in vocational education and training (VET) to discuss the role of applied research and innovation in driving European competitiveness, supporting the green and digital transition.
Juan Manuel Mondéjar, Head of Landscaping Consulting Area at Projar Group and an active member of the BARCOVE project, participated in the symposium as part of a panel discussion. The BARCOVE – Building an Applied Research Facility into CoVE, started under the umbrella of the European Platform for Urban Greening and PoVE Water project.
BARCOVE Project
Alongside representatives from Tknika, EURASHE, and Solski, Mondéjar shared insights on how the BARCOVE project was developed, as well as the current state of research and innovation in VET centers across Europe. His participation highlighted the role of applied research in empowering vocational students and fostering collaboration between educational institutions and industry.
Applied Research in VET Education
Mondéjar also had the opportunity to present the BARCOVE project to a wider audience, along with representatives from the CHALLENGER and AIRinVET projects. These presentations were followed by a panel discussion, where participants from Katapult, Solski Center Nova Gorica, and Projar Group explored how to engage both internal and external stakeholders in these innovative initiatives. They also discussed strategies for better understanding and supporting the impact of applied research in VET education.
Sharing Knowledge and Perspectives
The AIRinVET Symposium, as part of the Erasmus Plus initiative, served as an invaluable platform for sharing knowledge and perspectives on the intersection of research, innovation, and vocational training. This event not only highlighted the contributions of the BARCOVE project but also underscored the importance of collaboration between VET centers, universities, and industry partners in advancing applied research in Europe.
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