Lifelong learning coordinators from the Awareness-Raising for Lifelong Learning project gathered during the last week of March for their regular training session. The focus of this dynamic, full-day event was the creation of video and other content for social media. However, the participants gained much more – the opportunity to connect and exchange ideas. In a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, we shared a wealth of insights applicable across various aspects of life.
No one has ever explained awareness-raising in such detail
We joined the project Raising Awareness, Communicating with Different Audiences and Encouraging Greater Involvement in Lifelong Learning (abbreviated as Awareness-Raising for Lifelong Learning) to enhance public understanding of the importance of lifelong learning and promote broader adult participation across all domains and stages of life. Given the complexity of this endeavour, it cannot be managed solely by the SIAE. Therefore, we engaged 12 regional coordinators – one from each of Slovenia’s statistical regions.
This project marks a turning point. We have been entrusted to work directly with people, and you, the coordinators, are our vital link to them.
In her welcome address, Director Dr Nataša Potočnik emphasised the importance of collaboration and expressed gratitude to the coordinators for their unique approach. The results are already visible across regions in various distinct ways. One notable achievement is the revamped SIAE awards system – a clear indicator of progress.
Expectations are high
Next, representatives of the SIAE addressed the participants. Project Manager Urška Bittner Pipan, MSc, provided an overview of the network’s key milestones from its inception to the present. She warmly welcomed several new coordinators and expressed her hopes for a productive and inspiring training session.
We hope that today’s training and the wealth of knowledge shared will result in fantastic, viral posts.
Matej Maček, who leads, informs and supports the network of coordinators, then outlined strategies for strengthening partnerships. The project aims to engage all actors across diverse fields who can contribute to raising awareness of the value of lifelong learning. This year, particular attention is being given to younger adults with lower educational attainment. To reach this group effectively, it is crucial to involve institutions that can access and support them through tailored approaches and initiatives.
The synergy between the Where to Get Knowledge and Lahko.si platforms is already producing positive outcomes, as evidenced by increased interest in submitting data.
We are shifting mindsets
Communication activities are overseen by Špela Bric, who encouraged coordinators to share real-life stories that illustrate how learning transforms lives, thus promoting lifelong learning. She also presented the latest developments in the project’s communication strategy. This year’s focus is on crafting messages and themes tailored to young adults with low levels of educational attainment. Engagement will take place on the platforms they use most – TikTok and Instagram. The upcoming media campaign, launching in the autumn, will feature fresh, vibrant and playful content. In addition, young people will be involved through a series of targeted events. A public call for initiatives aimed at young people with lower levels of education has resulted in the selection of ten winning proposals.
Anja Trilar also addressed the participants, presenting the current status of the project evaluation. The findings will help determine where and how awareness-raising efforts can have the most impact. One of the central questions guiding the evaluation is what truly motivates individuals, particularly in today’s context, to participate in lifelong learning.
Meaningful information
Boštjan Vidmar from the Viralen.si company delivered the central part of the training. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of social media, including both its pitfalls and advantages, he shared numerous valuable tips and insights. I am confident that participants have already begun applying these strategies in their work. Promoting lifelong learning operates on principles quite different from those used in product marketing. Its impact is rarely immediate and often becomes visible only over time, which calls for greater research, experimentation and courage on our part. Nevertheless, the user must always remain at the heart of our efforts.
What About the Script?
The training was primarily focused on creating video content. The lecturer introduced key content components and provided practical guidance on filming techniques. He also demonstrated an application that supports final video editing.
Towards the end of the session, some participants raised a vital question: What about the script? While there is no shortage of ideas, and inspiration can be found everywhere, the support of artificial intelligence in this process is proving to be invaluable. Moreover, participants have access to a wealth of existing video content available on the LLW website and the SIAE YouTube channel.
Ana Peklenik (ana.peklenik@acs.si), SIAE
