Meeting in the House of Sustainability 24.03.25
Some German students and the head of the Hdn were present at the meeting. She gave a tour of the house and explained what the House of Sustainability does. Below is a brief description of the house Founded in 2020, the House of Sustainability (HdN) is a collaborative initiative that brings together businesses, schools, and research institutions to drive sustainable development. A key focus group consists of scientists from the University of Applied Sciences Neu-Ulm, working on interdisciplinary approaches to sustainability. A Hub for Events and Innovation The HdN serves as a dynamic venue offering a wide range of activities, including a Repair Café and a lending shop. Events span from film nights and workshops to lectures, catering to a diverse audience. The space is designed with a large central hall featuring smaller seating areas for group discussions and collaboration. Additionally, a fully equipped kitchen fosters interaction and community engagement. Community and Creative Space A strong link exists with the University of Ulm, particularly its IT students, who originally founded Verschwörhaus, a hackerspace now integrated within the HdN. The space is designed for hands-on projects, enabling individuals to develop and execute their own ideas. Student Engagement and Sustainability The HdN collaborates closely with students from the University of Ulm, especially those studying sustainable economics and other sustainability-related disciplines. Around 50 students have participated in small group projects, contributing to various initiatives within the space. Ongoing Activities The HdN continuously engages students in practical projects, such as a recently filmed documentary about the lending shop. Additionally, a coworking space within the facility was established by a member of the University of Applied Sciences Neu-Ulm, further enhancing opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
1. International Meeting: Fit 4 Democracy, 25.03.25
Minutes of the Democracy Discussion Meeting Number of Participants: 26Countries Represented: Bulgaria, Romania, Germany, Poland, France The meeting began with a welcome and an explanation of the translation process, allowing participants to switch between Bulgarian and Romanian translation channels. Following this, everyone introduced themselves, and an overview of the evening’s agenda was presented. A series of democracy-related videos were shown, followed by a discussion on what democracy means to each participant. A survey was presented, prompting reactions and reflections on democracy and its challenges. Participants raised key concerns, including economic disparities affecting access to democratic participation, the rise of fake news, and the difficulties of meaningful debate in modern times. There was a strong interest in discussing how to recognize and counteract manipulation in social and mass media. Participants were divided into three groups for focused discussions: Group 1: Explored the threats to democracy and strategies to counter anti-democratic forces. Topics included the need for better political education, making democracy more tangible, and finding ways to engage citizens beyond elections. Concerns were raised about deteriorating debate culture, lack of direct participation, and challenges in maintaining open dialogue in politically unstable regions. Group 2: Focused on direct participation in democracy, discussing existing initiatives and opportunities in different countries. The role of social media in fostering engagement was debated, as well as risks associated with online activism. The group also examined participation models such as the Cluj participation portal. Group 3: Discussed ways to protect democracy, how political leaders shape public policy, and the influence of media manipulation. The group proposed practical actions such as writing to newspapers, engaging in local political discussions, and using digital tools to spread awareness. After reconvening, each group summarized their key takeaways. Further discussions explored why many people feel disconnected from democracy and what methods could be implemented to increase participation. The idea of developing a toolbox for democracy—a collection of best practices and strategies—was introduced. Participants were invited to contribute ideas for the toolbox, including methods for democratic engagement and education. The session concluded with a discussion on next steps, including online meetings to continue the dialogue, sharing documents and resources, and coordinating schedules for future discussions. Participants expressed enthusiasm for the diverse perspectives shared and looked forward to further exchanges on democracy in different countries.
Visit to Radgasse 8 – A Hub for Sustainable Engagement, 20.03.25
At March 20th 2025, a group of volunteers and full-time employees of the “Lokale Agenda” and “ILEU” were invited to visit the Radgasse 8 in Ulm. Radgasse 8 is a key location for institutions dedicated to sustainable development and social engagement. Various organizations based here focus on issues such as poverty alleviation, educational equity, social integration, environmentally friendly mobility, and ecological sustainability. During the visit, participants gained insight into the diverse activities and initiatives taking place at Radgasse 8: Kulturloge (Culture Lodge) provides people with low incomes access to cultural events. The citizen agency ZEBRA strengthens civic engagement through initiatives such as reading projects for elementary school children. The Flüchtlingsrat (Refugee Council) advocates for the rights of refugees and offers counseling and support. “Engagiert in Ulm” (engaged in Ulm), a local volunteer agency, connects individuals who wish to get involved with suitable projects while also assisting nonprofit organizations in finding volunteers. Sustainable mobility is another focus at Radgasse 8: The General German Bicycle Club ADFC advocates for a bicycle-friendly infrastructure in Ulm and provides advice on cycling-related topics. Additionally, Viva con Agua works to ensure global access to clean drinking water. The visit to Radgasse 8 highlights the wide-ranging commitment to sustainable development and the significant role these institutions play in society. The work being done here contributes to addressing social and ecological challenges on both a local and global scale.
Local Meeting in Ulm with Local Agenda, 17.03.25
A total of 13 participants attended the meeting, representing various local organizations, including the Local Agenda, ADFC, Schubart Gymnasium, and the Sustainability House in Neu-Ulm. The session began with a round of introductions, followed by an overview of Agenda 2030 and its five key principles: People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership. A brief explanation of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was given to provide context for the project. The discussion then shifted to ActionBound, with an introduction to ILEU and the international framework of the ActionBound project. An explanatory video was shown, followed by a presentation demonstrating an ActionBound example focused on SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Several questions arose during the discussion, including whether ActionBound is a commercial program (confirmed as yes) and how tourists can be made aware of such initiatives. The target audience for the project was identified as individuals aged 14 and older. It was suggested that all 17 goals should be represented, but not within a single ActionBound tour, as this would make it too long. A recommended duration of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours was proposed. To encourage idea generation, small groups were formed to brainstorm collaboratively. Participants worked in groups to identify locations of interest for the scavenger hunt. Ideas included integrating time-sensitive elements to ensure that places closed on specific days would be accounted for in the tour. The focus should be on 5-8 locations, ensuring a well-structured route. The discussion also emphasized SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 16. Several key assignments were established: Additionally, those interested in further collaboration were invited to an online meeting on April 1 to continue the discussion and refine the project plan. The meeting concluded with an agreement to develop and finalize the scavenger hunt route based on the proposed locations.
2.International Project Meeting: Sustainability Goals in my City, 4.03.25
The third project meeting on ‘Sustainability Goals in My City’ took place with a diverse group of participants. The session began with a conversation-based introduction, where attendees shared insights about cultural traditions such as Fasching in Germany and Mateniza in Bulgaria, as well as their hobbies, ranging from travel and dance to music and sports. Following the introductions, the session moved to an input activity titled ‘The Blank Sheet,’ prompting reflections on education. This was complemented by an interactive Mentimeter survey asking, ‘What is education?’ In small group discussions, participants explored key questions related to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education). They reflected on whether this goal is well implemented in their schools and how teachers and students can collaboratively make the educational process more engaging and creative. Another discussion focused on places in their cities that align with these educational goals. In one group, discussions revolved around accessibility to education. Participants shared their experiences from different countries, highlighting the varying costs and opportunities in Ukraine, Bulgaria, and Germany. Topics included tuition fees, university accessibility, the impact of war on education, and inclusivity for students with disabilities. The conversation also touched on gender equality in education, with insights into how opportunities differ across regions and fields of study. Another group focused on the structure of educational systems and equality in access to learning. They discussed entrance exams, the role of teachers in inspiring students, and the impact of government policies on equal opportunities. Examples from different educational systems illustrated the balance between public and private schooling, lifelong learning opportunities, and the importance of inclusive education. The session proceeded with a review of places in various cities that promote lifelong learning, such as adult education centers, community institutions, and university extension programs. Participants also discussed the role of political education in shaping democratic engagement, comparing different approaches in Germany, Bulgaria, and the USA. The discussion highlighted student participation in school decision-making, the influence of student councils, and their varying degrees of authority in different countries. The meeting concluded with a summary of key insights and a reflection on the importance of individual contributions to the education system. Participants were tasked with identifying additional non-traditional learning spaces beyond schools and universities for future discussions. The session fostered meaningful exchanges and set the stage for continued collaboration on sustainability and education.
Qualification Seminar: Zoom and ViMA danube, 18.02.25
On February 18, 2025, an ActionBound training session took place from 18:00 to 19:45. The session began with an introduction round, though the entire group from Sofia was absent. Following this, a presentation on Zoom was given, covering basic functions such as changing names, speaker and gallery view, reactions, and chats. Additional features like breakout rooms, screen sharing, whiteboards, requesting subtitles, participating in polls, and the interpreter function were also introduced. Most participants were already familiar with these functions, except for the interpreter feature. There was some uncertainty regarding whether the browser version of Zoom offers the same functionalities. To engage participants, an interactive exercise was conducted using a prepared whiteboard where they could express their thoughts on sustainability goals. Responses included peace, equality, education, gender equality, health, climate change, reducing inequalities, and life on land. Additionally, a translation exercise was carried out to test the interpreter function, where Ukrainian and German were used in a simulated scenario. The next segment of the training focused on ViMA Danube. A brief introduction was provided, and it was confirmed that all participants had successfully registered without any issues. Following this, the discussion shifted to the connection between students from different countries. So far, interactions had primarily taken place via messages and at the Danube Festival in Ulm. One of the project’s goals is to encourage more exchange among students, and those who actively contribute may have the opportunity to visit Ulm at the end of the project. Participants then proposed topics for discussion within the project, including education, both general and outside traditional institutions, Europe as a unified structure, democracy and its influence on society, and freedom. The session concluded with a discussion on historical events in Ulm, particularly the White Rose movement, and ways to prevent similar occurrences in the future. This training provided participants with essential digital tools and initiated meaningful discussions for the project.
1.International Project Meeting: Sustainaility Goals in my City, 04.02.25
The meeting, attended by 34 participants, began with an introduction to the Danube Networkers and the ActionBound project, followed by a reading of Niemals Gewalt to set the stage for discussions on peace and unrest. A brainstorming session explored these concepts before participants were divided into three breakout groups. Group A discussed definitions of peace, emphasizing both physical and psychological aspects. They debated the role of childhood education in shaping attitudes toward violence, citing Pippi Longstocking as an example of self-determination. The group also explored factors that disrupt peace, such as communication breakdowns, bullying, and online harassment. Group B examined whether violence is inherent in human nature or learned. Some participants argued that while humans have instinctive aggression, education and social norms play a crucial role in fostering nonviolence. The group discussed how critical thinking and discipline help counteract violent tendencies and promote cooperation. Group C focused on how education can nurture nonviolence. They highlighted the importance of patience, emotional support, and strong role models. The group also identified obstacles, including rigid educational structures and early exposure to social pressures, recommending more empathy-driven learning and limited social media for young children. After reconvening, each group presented their findings. Discussions emphasized how peace, violence, and education are interconnected, with institutional and personal influences playing key roles. The session concluded with an introduction to ActionBound and sustainability discussions. Participants were tasked with identifying local initiatives supporting sustainability goals for future project work. In closing, attendees expressed appreciation for the exchange of diverse perspectives and noted the importance of open discussions on violence and peace. The next session in two weeks will introduce Zoom and ViMA to support further collaboration.