Athens University of Economics and Business, the Greek partner in the NGEurope project (Erasmus+), hosted the 2nd Engagement Seminar on September 19-20th 2018, in its new premises. The seminar titled: “Active Citizens-Thriving Communities” aimed at introducing the project to active citizens and promoting best practices of local and national NGOs.
During the first day, the participants had the opportunity to know everything about the project, such as intellectual outputs and upcoming events. Two members involved in NGOs, who attended the 1st training course in Lousada (Portugal), communicated what they have learned during the 5 days. Also, they have shared their experiences concerning the social economy in Greece, emphasizing difficulties as well as advantages of their everyday professional life. At the end of the day all participants had an intensive interaction, exchange of ideas and experiences, where some of them signed up for the upcoming events of the NGEurope project.
During the second day, the participants visited the Kypseli Municipal Market. This market has been recently renovated to host NGOs with diversified aim and scope. Participants had the opportunity for a walking tour to learn the history of the market before the official opening in October 2018. Representatives of four social organizations made their presentations and shared their motives, preferences and experiences. Participants had enough time to discuss with them thoroughly and receive answers to their questions. At the end of the seminar it was clear that Greece lacks enough opportunities for networking while synergies between active citizens and NGOs are not exploited to the maximum. NGO representatives as well as the participants agreed that the engagement seminar responds to the need for more interaction between social entities and individuals willing to contribute to society. Finally, all participants expressed the request for similar events in the future.
