Since 2023, Šmarje pri Jelšah Library has held accreditation for implementing Erasmus+ projects. This means that each year the library applies for a new project through which it organises several learning mobilities for both staff and adult learners involved in study circles or the Third Age University (U3A). So far, four groups of adult learners have participated in group mobility activities, travelling to Poland, Ireland and Spain. During the first week following this year’s Easter holidays, a learning mobility to Spain was attended by Darja Babič Drašler, a member of the Third Age University Bistrica ob Sotli, who prepared the following reflection.
Vlasta Kramperšek Šuc, (vlasta@kpsj.si), Šmarje pri Jelšah Library
From learning to joy
As a member of the Third Age University Bistrica ob Sotli, I participated in an educational programme in Granada within an Erasmus+ project successfully coordinated by the Šmarje pri Jelšah Library. Members of the Third Age University from Kozje and Šmarje pri Jelšah also travelled with us, accompanied by two group leaders.
The educational programme was carefully designed and exceptionally rich in content. In the mornings, we attended lectures at the lifelong learning centre Carmen Jiménez in Granada, where we met both the principal and the head of study programmes. We actively participated in ICT lessons and became familiar with the features of the Padlet application. At the same time, we practised our understanding of English and Spanish, which was one of the programme’s aims. Throughout the experience, we were continually impressed by the friendliness, openness and relaxed attitude of both the lecturers and the Spanish people in general.
Participants in the learning mobility in front of the statue of Queen Isabella I of Castile and Christopher Columbus, whose transatlantic voyage was financially supported by the Queen. The New World discovered by Columbus subsequently became part of Castile.
The afternoons were dedicated to exploring the sights of Granada, which can justifiably be described as one of the wonders of the world. In addition to the famous Alhambra with its magnificent gardens, we were deeply impressed by the cathedral with its remarkable architecture and paintings, the house of the celebrated poet Federico García Lorca and, finally, the passionate and emotional flamenco performance.
In conclusion, I would also like to mention how strongly we bonded as a group. Through pleasant companionship and shared experiences, we truly came to know one another. For this, I am deeply grateful. These invaluable experiences will continue to support me in life, while the knowledge and experiences I gained have given me greater self-confidence and inspiration to continue exploring and discovering new worlds.
My sincere thanks go to our wonderful group leaders, Žiga and Anemarija, as well as to the Šmarje pri Jelšah Library for allowing us to be part of this story. What you do is not something to be taken for granted – it is truly exceptional.
Darja Babič Dašler (darja.babic.drasler@gmail.com), mobility participant