The V2V-IDEA project meeting took place in Alba, Italy, bringing together partners for a productive and inspiring exchange of ideas. The event was hosted by Apro Formazione, a well-established vocational training centre renowned for its dedication to education, innovation and local development.
Founded in 1958 by Mons. Gianolio and promoted today by all the companies and stakeholders of the territory, APRO Formazione has always had the goal of training young people for the world of work and provide professional development for workers in response to local and business needs. The consortium includes in its associates the main territorial institutions, companies of different sizes and sectors, trade associations and other organisations. Since 2009, APRO has collaborated with European partners on mobility projects, partnerships, development and transfer of innovation in the education field, and capacity building in non-European countries. APRO offers courses designed as effective solutions for the professional integration or reintegration of unemployed adults into the workforce. It also provides lifelong learning courses for employed Individuals, with flexible enrolment available throughout the year.
On the first day of the meeting, the partners took part in dynamic discussions and productive study visits, gaining valuable insights into local best practices. Key sessions focused on developing the project’s capacity-building toolbox, designed to support vocational education and training providers across different contexts. Participants also explored early concepts and anticipations for the upcoming online course catalogue, which will serve as a central resource for learning and knowledge exchange within the project. In addition, the consortium collaborated on a thorough review of the communication and dissemination plan, examining strategies, target audiences, and channels in detail to ensure effective outreach and long-term impact. Partners exchanged ideas on how to increase visibility, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and maximise the project’s reach at local and international levels. A particular highlight of the meeting was the preparation of the project’s launch newsletter, including defining key messages, selecting relevant content and agreeing on a clear and engaging format. This milestone marks an important step in sharing V2V-IDEA’s progress, achievements, and upcoming activities with a wider audience, thereby fostering greater awareness and involvement.
On the second day, delegates delivered presentations and held discussions on several core work packages. Partners shared updates on WPs 1, 3 and 4, highlighting the progress that had been achieved and outlining the next steps for implementation. These sessions ensured strong alignment across the consortium and reinforced a shared vision for the project’s outcomes. A key focus of the meeting was the anticipation and co-design of an approach to work-based learning that empowers learners and enhances their practical skills and employability. Partners also explored initial ideas relating to National Skills Competitions and mobility opportunities for those not in education, employment or training (NEETs), emphasising inclusion and access to meaningful training experiences. In addition to these discussions, participants took part in study visits, contributed to the development of the capacity-building toolbox, and reviewed the draft communication and dissemination plan. The preparation of the first project newsletter was an important milestone in sharing results and engaging a wider audience.
The meeting in Alba was both productive and inspiring. It strengthened collaboration and provided clear direction for the next stages of the V2V-IDEA project.