From 16 to 25 March 2025, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VILNIUS TECH) hosted an international study visit under the Erasmus+ project Digital Response to Unemployment Problems in Western Balkans (DRUPWB). The visit, coordinated by the university’s Creativity and Innovation Centre “LinkMenų fabrikas” and Knowledge and Technology Transfer Centre, gathered 30 educators, trainers, and youth workers from partner institutions across Europe, including representatives from Lithuania, Germany, Albania, Montenegro, and other Western Balkan countries.

The objective of the study visit was to explore and exchange good practices in digital innovation, inclusive teaching methods, and sustainability-oriented vocational education and training (VET). Participants took part in a diverse programme that combined thematic lectures, hands-on workshops, institutional presentations, and study visits to Lithuanian technology and innovation hubs.

Programme Highlights

Throughout the visit, participants attended expert sessions on inclusive STEAM education, circular economy in teaching, digital tools in VET, and methods for engaging NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) youth. Programme highlights included presentation of the VILNIUS TECH-developed educational platform Future Engineering, which focuses on fostering inclusive and future-oriented learning environments, creativity and innovation lecture, workshops, site visits and networking opportunities. 
 

The programme included guided visits to the VILNIUS TECH Sustainability Hub, Sunrise Tech Park, Visoriai Information Technology Park, and Manufacturing Innovation Valley. These visits provided insight into how Lithuanian institutions integrate innovation, digitalisation, and cross-sectoral collaboration in education and research.

The study visit also created space for peer-led presentations, group work, and structured reflection sessions. Participants were encouraged to critically examine the DRUPWB 4-modular curriculum and discuss its applicability in different institutional contexts. Opportunities for networking and future collaboration were also supported through informal and cultural activities, including a guided tour of Vilnius Old Town. The event also supported the piloting of curriculum elements and helped reinforce institutional ties between Lithuanian innovation ecosystems, higher education and VET organisations.