“We Produce Together for Innovation and Collaboration in Education” – A Unique Perspective from Gülnur VARLI

Gülnur VARLI, a member of the YEAR-GE Association Board of Directors, has written an evaluation highlighting the importance of education and youth projects conducted at national and international levels. VARLI shares her perspective on the transformational opportunities offered to both individuals and institutions by her experiences in Erasmus+ and eTwinning projects.

In his article, VARLI expresses his strong interest in project processes with the following words:

“"Erasmus+ School Education, Youth, and eTwinning projects are the most concrete manifestation of innovative thinking, intercultural interaction, and collaborative production. Taking an active role in these processes means opening new doors to education."”

Drawing attention to the role of national and international partnerships in improving quality in education, VARLI emphasizes the power of cooperation as follows:

“"Every institution, every teacher, and every young person involved in the projects is a valuable part of a global learning network. Strengthening collaborations to grow this network is the most important investment we can make in the future."”

Sharing his experiences on digital transformation in education and the acquisition of 21st century skills, VARLI said,

“"The way to develop individuals with the skills required by the digital age is to support innovative learning environments. Therefore, it is our priority to center digital tools and innovative methods in our projects," he said, pointing to the direction of transformation in education.

Gülnur VARLI explains the purpose of the training, workshops, seminars and guidance support she offers to teachers, young people, educational institutions and NGOs with these words:

“For me, the most valuable gain is to support environments where young people develop themselves, teachers embrace innovative thinking, and institutions gain international vision.”

VARLI, who actively contributes to the work carried out under the YEAR-GE umbrella, concludes his article with the following statements:

“"Every project is about an idea turning into reality, touching someone's life, and shedding light on the future of society. I am proud to be a part of this journey."”

Gülnur VARLI's vision continues to advance in strong alignment with YEAR-GE's goals of innovation, collaboration, and sustainable impact in education.

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“National and International Projects Are the Most Valuable Investment in the Future”

Serap KIRDAR KUZÖREN, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Innovative Education Research and Development Association (YEAR-GE), penned an evaluation highlighting the critical role national and international projects play in social development. Kuzören explained the value of the projects in her own words:

“"National and international projects play a key role in the transformation of not only institutions but also all segments of society. Each of these projects is one of the most valuable investments in the future."”

Serap Kırdar Kuzören states that Türkiye's active participation in European Union education and youth programs directly supports individual and institutional development:

“Programs like Erasmus+ and ESC provide our young people with international experience, strengthen the professional competencies of educators, and make our institutions more visible on a global scale.”

Kuzören emphasizes that the impact of projects is not limited to the activity process alone and expresses the importance of sustainability as follows:

“"A project gains meaning not only in the days it is implemented, but also in the long-term impact it reflects on society. Real success is the change that emerges after the project is completed."”

Kuzören emphasized that cultural diversity, inclusiveness and innovative educational practices should be at the center of all project work.,

“"I have always prioritized intercultural dialogue, social inclusion, and innovative learning environments in our projects. Because these elements are the most powerful components that accelerate social development," he said.

Finally, Serap Kırdar Kuzören emphasized the importance of national and international collaborations,

“"The path to creating impact from the local to the global is through strong partnerships. That's why we've always prioritized collaborating with public institutions, NGOs, and international organizations," he said.

According to Serap KIRDAR KUZÖREN's vision, the YEAR-GE Association continues to take decisive steps to create permanent transformation in education and society with sustainable, inclusive and innovative projects.

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ERASMUS+ PROGRAM: NEW HORIZONS IN EDUCATION, YOUTH AND COOPERATION

The Erasmus+ Program, which aims to increase the quality of education, support the personal and professional development of young people and strengthen international cooperation between institutions, stands out as the most comprehensive education and youth program of the European Union.

The Erasmus+ programme, covering the period 2021–2027, offers a wide range of opportunities, including school education, vocational training, adult education, youth work and higher education.

Erasmus+ appeals to a wide range of target groups, from students and teachers to young people and adults, from institutional managers to civil society organizations. The program's international mobility programs, training courses, youth exchanges, internships, and job shadowing activities enable participants to develop both professionally and culturally. Today, many institutions are establishing international partnerships through Erasmus+ collaborations, implementing projects that generate both local and global impact.

Key Tips for Success with Erasmus+

A few important points need to be emphasized for institutions that want to take part in Erasmus+ projects:

* Needs Analysis: Correctly analyzing the organization's real needs is a critical step in ensuring that projects are built on a solid foundation.

* Strong Partnerships: Working with reliable international partners who share similar goals directly impacts the success of the project.

* Impact and Dissemination: It is of great importance that projects are not limited to just the participants but that the results are transferred to the local community and institutional structure.

* Sustainability: Since Erasmus+ projects aim to produce long-term gains rather than short-term activities, sustainable steps should be planned.

Through Erasmus+, educational institutions, youth organizations, and civil society organizations across Türkiye are gaining European experience and the opportunity to promote their best practices internationally. In short, Erasmus+ is not just a mobility program; it's also a powerful collaborative platform that broadens the vision of institutions, broadens the horizons of individuals, and contributes to the development of societies.

As the YEAR-GE Association, we are determined to continue our efforts to ensure that more institutions take an active role in the Erasmus+ program and that young people and educators take advantage of these opportunities. I hope everyone will take advantage of the opportunities this program offers and invite you to build an innovative, inclusive, and collaborative future in education together.

Yalcin Kuzoren

YEAR-GE Association Vice President

yeargedernegi@gmail.com