The Speak&Act project, part of the Erasmus+ initiative, focuses on integrating Public Speaking (PS) as a methodology for teaching and learning Citizenship Education in secondary schools. On January 22nd, the project’s final event took place at the Regione Umbria Venue in Brussels, showcasing its achievements and impact since its creation. 

• The event opened with remarks from Gabriella Ceccarelli, the Region of Umbria’s representative in Brussels. She commended the dedication of the participating students and teachers and emphasized the critical role of regional representation in European policymaking. 
• The event brought together professionals who shared insights into their involvement with Speak&Act. Sylvia Liuti, European Project Manager of FORMA.Azione, highlighted the contributions of key stakeholders in enhancing capacities and competencies. She defended the importance of Public Speaking in achieving global citizenship and critical thinking. 
• Professor G. Gualtieri, Coordinator of the Speak&Act project, reflected on the initiative’s origins and objectives. “The project began with students’ desire to improve their public speaking skills” he explained. It has since evolved to integrate PS methodologies into Civic Education curricula, empowering students to engage politically through speech and action. 

A teachers’ prospective to co-design labs and learning scenarios experiences 

Teachers from participating schools in Italy, Poland, Portugal, and Slovenia shared their experiences in co-designing lessons plans. The Co-Design Lab, a cornerstone of the project, fostered collaboration between educators and students to develop a participatory methodology for incorporating Public Speaking into classrooms.  

This approach led to the creation of lesson plans that involved over 200 students, with remarkable success. Beyond PS, students honed skills in debate, body language, and voice projection while participating in activities like student councils, debating clubs, volunteering, Erasmus+, and eTwinning projects. Teachers also noted that the methodology cultivated critical thinking, encouraging students to ask diverse, thought-provoking questions—essential for active citizenship. 

Students take the stage 

Students from Italy, Poland, Portugal, and Slovenia, who participated in the Speak&Act project, brought unique perspectives and creativity to the final event, enriching its dynamic atmosphere: 

• The Italian students delivered inspiring TED Talks addressing various needs related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They advocated for the importance of Erasmus+ in promoting European Citizenship, the universal right to education, gender equality, and human rights. Check out the TED Talks in YouTube.
• Portuguese students produced a podcast that amplified the concept of Global Citizenship. Drawing from their experiences during the project and incorporating feedback, they enhanced their communication skills and cultural awareness. Their work highlighted how PS serves as a powerful tool for democratic participation. 
• Lastly, Polish and Slovenian students engaged in a thought-provoking debate, moderated by Speak&Act speakers and lecturers. They discussed whether participation in mobility programs, such as Erasmus+, should be tied to students’ academic performance, showcasing their ability to articulate diverse viewpoints in a structured and respectful manner. 

European organisations and participation opportunities for young people 

Different representatives of European organisations participated in the event to share their insights about opportunities for young people: 

• Giuliana Kotkievicz, Policy Intern from the Erasmus Student Network, highlighted the efforts of ESN in making international mobility inclusive for everyone. 

• Alessandra Matthys, from the Solidar Foundation, advocated for lifelong and life-wide learning as a reality for all, highlighting the need of making a real difference so people can be involved in democratic processes. 

• Chiara Antonelli, from the European Schoolnet, upholded the idea of creating a safer and better internet network for kids, emphasizing the importance of youth participation for policy making. 

• Giuseppina Tucci, from OBESSU, outlined the different ways in which her organisation can defend the students regarding their needs and rights, focusing on specific projects that are being held. 

• Veronica Arduino, from the LifeLongLearning Platform, focused on specific projects like funding for education, Erasmus+ or international mobility, which help students gain valuable skills. 

• Luka, a Temporary Agent for the EU Commission, highlighted the need of organizing the future when we’re young, outlining the different opportunities that are available for the youth through partnership. 

The Speak&Act project successfully demonstrated the transformative potential of Public Speaking in education. By equipping students with the tools to express themselves effectively and think critically, it has laid a strong foundation for fostering active citizenship in Europe’s next generation. 

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Find the full photo album released in CC License here.

Check out the playlist here with #TedTalks from the students: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLSuWresNr6oNegoWXhc0g0tTxBIowFpl 

Credits:

Event Report: Jaime Rivas, EfVET Communications Intern.

Photo Credits: Michele Pasquale, EfVET Communications Manager.

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