Future Classroom Lab Ambassadors Gather in Ankara to Drive Digital Education Innovation

14/11/2024

On October 21-22, 2024, Future Classroom Lab (FCL) Ambassadors travelled to Ankara, Türkiye, for their annual in-person meeting. This gathering was a fantastic opportunity to discuss ongoing projects, strengthen international collaboration, and explore cutting-edge digital education initiatives with the Turkish Ministry of Education. 

With this year marking ten years of the FCL Ambassadors network, we were happy to also celebrate this milestone together! Led by FCL Coordinator Bart Verswijvel and European Schoolnet representative Eirini Symeonidou, the meeting focused on reviewing progress, supporting the Digital Education Hub Accelerator, exploring the national plans and activities of the Turkish Ministry of Education. Key discussions explored how FCL networks and learning labs can foster EdTech startups that meet the evolving needs of classrooms today. 

Highlights from Türkiye’s Innovative Education Initiatives 

Türkiye’s national efforts were a focal point, showcasing the Ministry of Education’s commitment to digital transformation through a plan to create 500 Future Classrooms nationwide. The Ambassadors learned about the Department of Digital Skills, which provides AI and digital training programmes to support educators as part of the broader Teacher Training Digital Ecosystem Project. By engaging in EU-led initiatives like e-Twinning and Scientix, Türkiye aims to build a collaborative, tech-savvy teaching community. 

Ambassadors also explored Türkiye’s ETKİM and EduCube programmes, which empower young EdTech entrepreneurs. Beginning at the high school level, these programmes offer training, mentoring, and real-world experience in business modelling, intellectual property, and market analysis. Meeting some of these young innovators gave Ambassadors a firsthand look at the future of educational technology. 

Visits to Innovative Classrooms 

On the second day, Ambassadors toured two Future Classrooms in Ankara, observing innovative practices and exchanging ideas with local educators. These visits demonstrated the transformative impact of flexible, technology-enhanced classrooms on teaching and learning. 

Building on a Decade of Progress 

As we celebrate ten years of impact, the FCL Ambassadors network remains dedicated to advancing digital education through collaboration and innovation. This meeting reinforced partnerships and inspired new avenues for future growth, underscoring our commitment to equipping classrooms and educators for tomorrow’s challenges. 

To discover more about the FCL Ambassadors network and upcoming projects, visit our special page and join us in shaping the future of education.