The preparation for the Multiplier Event involved several key steps to ensure its success. The planning team started by defining the event’s objectives and identifying the target audience. Following this, a detailed agenda was drafted, highlighting key activities and discussion points. Invitations were sent to potential participants, and marketing efforts were undertaken through various channels, including social media, email newsletters, and partnerships with relevant organizations. Logistics were carefully managed, with arrangements made for catering, and audio-visual equipment. The team also coordinated with speakers and facilitators to ensure they were fully prepared.

The event took place at CIP Impact Hub, a modern conference center located in the heart of Nicosia’s old city. The venue was chosen for its accessibility and state-of-the-art facilities, including high-speed internet, projectors, and comfortable seating. The location also provided ample parking space and was easily accessible by public transportation.

The primary objectives of the event were to disseminate the outcomes and findings of Code4SP, to engage participants in discussions on the project’s impact and future applications, to foster networking among stakeholders, and to encourage collaboration for future initiatives. Lastly, to gather feedback from participants to refine and enhance future projects.

The event also served as a platform to discuss the challenges and opportunities related to the project’s sustainability. Participants highlighted the project’s potential to address the scarcity of free training in Programming in Portugal, which is crucial for increasing the supply of labour in a growing sector. Additionally, the philanthropic nature of Code4SP, aimed at empowering individuals in vulnerable situations, was praised for its societal benefits.

The team expressed their gratitude to all participants for their experience and insights, which will contribute to the successful expansion and sustainability of the Code4SP project.

My name is Marios Koundouris, and I work as an IT/Project Manager.

Tell us a few words about your background:

I have a degree in Electrical Engineering and Informatics, obtained at the Cyprus University of Technology, and a master’s degree in Data Science and Engineering. I have been working with European projects for over 4 years.

What organization do you work for?

CIP – Citizens in Power.

What does your organization do?

C.I.P. Citizens in Power (C.I.P.) is a non-profit, educational and research organization. C.I.P. constitutes one of the leading organizations in Cyprus in global education, social innovation, entrepreneurship, STEM, and sustainable growth. Our team designs and implements cross-sectoral, interdisciplinary approaches to respond to fundamental social, educational, and environmental challenges and policy gaps by employing technology transfer and operationalizing the research findings. Recognizing diversity as a congenital feature of modern societies, C.I.P. has been tirelessly inspiring and transforming communities by endowing young people and citizens with innovative tools and comprehensive solutions. To accomplish its vision, C.I.P. has established an ongoing collaboration with leading universities, N.G.O.s, and civil society organizations of international outreach.

What is your role in the Code4SP project? What are you currently working on?

In the Code4SP project, CIP is the communication and dissemination leader. We are responsible for the strategic planning (methodology) regarding the dissemination of Code4SP results to both direct and indirect target groups and the project communications and further exploitation of the results. Also, as an IT I am responsible for uploading and updating materials on both websites of the project (main website and educational platform).

Why is being part of the Code4SP project important to you?

Taking part in a project like Code4SP makes me feel that I am offering something very positive and innovative to society. The high demand for IT in modern society can be solved to a significant extent through the project and the fact that we are targeting people with limited opportunities makes it even more important and interesting.

How do you like to spend your free time?

Playing Tennis and watching football.

Code4SP is more than just a coding program; it’s a transformative journey for migrants and refugees, providing them with the skills and tools they need to navigate and contribute to their new communities. At its core, the project aims to harness the power of programming as a means of social integration, offering participants a pathway to economic independence and social inclusion.

Learning to code may seem like a daunting task, but for many migrants and refugees, it represents an opportunity for a brighter future. By mastering programming languages and gaining proficiency in digital technologies, participants not only enhance their employability but also foster a sense of belonging in their host countries.

The impact of Code4SP extends far beyond the realm of coding. By empowering migrants and refugees to become active contributors to society, the project promotes social cohesion and mutual understanding. Through their newfound skills and sense of agency, participants are not just beneficiaries but agents of change, driving innovation and progress in their communities.

As we look towards a future defined by globalization and interconnectedness, initiatives like Code4SP offer a blueprint for building inclusive societies where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. By investing in the potential of migrants and refugees, we not only uphold our shared humanity but also unlock the full spectrum of talent and creativity that enriches our world. Together, let us embrace the power of technology and education to forge a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

My name is João Gonçalves and I work as a Project Manager.

Tell us a few words about your background:

I have a degree in History, obtained at the University of Porto. I have been working with European projects for over 5 years.

What organisation do you work for?

CEPROF.

What does your organisation do?

CEPROF is an SME specifically for the creation of the Vocational School of Espinho. Since ESPE is a school, it is legally recognised as an “institution of public interest” and the unique business of CEPROF is to own, manage and legally represent ESPE. The international department, which is my workplace, works towards the development of international projects in order to enlarge the school’s scope and knowledge.

What is your role in the Code4SP project? What are you currently working on?

CEPROF has joined this project as an ICT expert and a knowledge provider on Coding, especially in the area of coding for automation. Furthermore, CEPROF is providing the perspective of a school that is complementary to the profile of the other IT-knowledge providers of this partnership, which will be relevant for the development of the curricula and for the involvement of the local communities.

Currently, I am working on the development of the project’s Work Package 5.

Why is being part of the Code4SP project important to you?

Being involved in a project with such noble goals is truly fulfilling. Today’s global migration trends highlight the growing desire for a better life, particularly in EU nations. This project stands as a valuable resource in enhancing the quality of life for these communities.

How do you like to spend your free time?

Reading and retro video gaming.

5. Enhancing Collaboration and Communication:

Coding is rarely a solitary endeavour. Whether working on a team project or seeking help from online communities, kids learn to collaborate effectively with others. They also develop the ability to communicate their ideas clearly, both in written code and verbal explanations, fostering important interpersonal skills.

6. Building Confidence:

Successfully coding a program, no matter how small, is immensely satisfying and builds confidence. As children tackle increasingly complex coding projects, they gain a sense of accomplishment and realize their potential to overcome challenges. This newfound confidence extends beyond coding and positively impacts other areas of their lives.

7. Promoting Digital Literacy:

In today’s digital world, understanding how technology works is essential for navigating everyday life. Learning to code equips kids with the skills to understand and utilize digital tools effectively. They become more discerning consumers of technology, capable of making informed decisions about their online activities and digital footprint.

8. Fostering Adaptability and Resilience:

Technology evolves rapidly, and coding teaches kids to adapt to new tools and languages as they emerge. By embracing change and learning new skills, they develop resilience and a growth mindset that will serve them well throughout their lives.

In conclusion, coding is not just about programming computers; it’s about empowering children to think critically, solve problems creatively, and thrive in an increasingly digital world. By learning to code, kids gain valuable skills that extend far beyond the confines of the computer screen, preparing them for success in the 21^st century and beyond.

1. Fostering Problem-Solving Skills:

Coding teaches children how to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts. They learn to approach challenges systematically, identify patterns, and develop logical solutions. These problem-solving skills are valuable not only in programming but also in various aspects of life, including academics and everyday tasks.

2. Encouraging Creativity:

Coding is an art form as much as it is a science. Through coding, kids can create anything they imagine, from simple animations to complex video games or interactive stories. Learning to code encourages them to think outside the box, experiment with different ideas, and unleash their creativity in unprecedented ways.

3. Preparing for the Future:

In today’s digital age, technology plays a central role in almost every industry. By learning to code early on, children gain a fundamental understanding of how technology works and are better prepared for future career opportunities. Whether they choose to pursue a career in software development or not, coding skills are increasingly valuable across diverse fields, from medicine to finance to entertainment.

4. Promoting Critical Thinking:

Coding requires attention to detail and precision. Kids learn to analyse problems critically, debug errors, and refine their code for optimal performance. This process strengthens their analytical thinking skills and encourages them to approach challenges with patience and perseverance.

Curious for more? Stay tuned for part 2, where we will go into more benefits that come with learning how to code from a young age!

Katharina Gräf, CEO of MIND 

Tell us a few words about your background:

I have a Bachelor degree in modern languages, cultures and business administrations and a Master degree in languages, literature and culture. Before studying I’ve spent one year for Travel&Work in Australia and New Zeeland and went abroad again during my studies for a semester at UWM in Milwaukee and an internship in Costa Rica. After my studies I’ve worked as project and department manager in a local educational institute until I founded MIND together with three colleagues this year. 

What organisation do you work for?

MIND gGmbH 

What does your organisation do?

MIND is a non-profit, educational institute that has made it its mission to contribute to a just society that treats all people equally and that values ​​and cares for its environment. The key to creating such a world on a small-scale, is to bring about change in local communities by providing educational opportunities for all, youth, adults, local and migrant.  

MIND raises awareness of critical issues such as climate change, discrimination, shortage of skilled workers etc. and creates inclusive learning opportunities that take into account the needs of all groups in our society. The MIND portfolio includes offers that support particularly disadvantaged groups in developing skills in the field of work and digitization as well as to promote social and personal skills and to enable these groups to actively participate in our society and to help shape it. 

What is your role in the Code4SP project? What are you currently working on?

MIND is responsible for the evaluation of the project management and implementation, which means a lot of questionnaires… currently it’s time to work out evaluation tools to assess the quality of the adapted training materials as the pilot testing phase is about to start. 

Why is being part of the Code4SP project important to you?

CodeDoor has been a partner of our staff for many years and we have cooperated in several projects, which gave us a first-hand insight of the promising opportunities their infrastructure offers our joint target group. We are proud to help transferring the good practice to our partners and happy to learn more about chances and obstacles for our target groups as well as share our own experience with participants that became CodeDoor beneficiaries.  

How do you like to spend your free time?

I like to travel a lot and generally to be outside in the nature, go hiking or for long walks and to read. I like sports, exercizing and watching ;-D And most of all, I love to spend time with my family and friends.