We are proud to be part of a new and exciting European initiative – ETI LABS – Erasmus Talent & Innovation Labs, which brings together six partner organisations from across Europe with the goal of supporting young people as they transition from academia to the professional world.
About the ETI LABS Project
The ETI LABS project is designed to develop an integrated framework that connects academia with industry, focusing on skills that are in high demand on today’s labour market. The key components of the project include:
- The creation of Talent & Innovation Labs focusing on entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and the sustainable economy;
- The launch of a traineeship programme for recent graduates;
- Advocacy for stronger University-Business Cooperation (UBC).
The project will employ an innovative methodology inspired by the ScienceShop model to foster a symbiotic relationship between education and industry. Moreover, students will have access to European Digital Credentials for Learning (EDCs), which will further certify the skills and knowledge they acquire through project participation.
Kick-off in Brussels
In March, we took part in the kick-off transnational project meeting in Brussels, hosted at the office of the project coordinator – Erasmus Student Network (ESN). Most consortium members joined in person, while others participated via an online platform. This was the first in-person gathering of project partners, filled with positive energy, a spirit of collaboration, and mutual agreements on the project’s visual identity, key goals, and next steps.
In addition to us, the consortium consists of strong and experienced partners from different sectors and countries:
- Erasmus Student Network (ESN) – Project Coordinator
- Assembly of European Regions (AER)
- Ecole Supérieure des Sciences Commerciales d’Angers (ESSCA)
- Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
- MCI Management Center Innsbruck – International University of Applied Sciences
Our shared mission? To connect education with labour market needs by fostering digital, entrepreneurial, and sustainable competences among Erasmus+ participants.
Activities in Full Swing
Following the initial meeting, we have already held two online project meetings:
- A thematic meeting focused on planning focus groups that will include key stakeholders – students, universities, regional authorities, and employers – aimed at strengthening university-business cooperation and creating better opportunities for young people entering the labour market.
- A monthly coordination meeting, during which the next steps for successful project implementation were defined.
What’s Next?
The official project website will be launched soon, and we will continue to share updates on implemented activities, results, and opportunities for engagement.
We’re excited to contribute to building bridges between education and employment, creating real and meaningful opportunities for young people across Europe!
