‘Sowing the Learning Seeds’ (SLS) Project 2010–2012 The project is financed via the EU Lifelong Learning programme,
sub-programme: Grundtvig; Action: Grundtvig Learning Partnerships 2010.
Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere. (Chinese Proverb)
Estonia
Learners' testimonies: Heli Gescheimer (Ireland meeting)
In Ireland voluntary work is surprisingly widespread; in Estonia there are still early days in that particular field - at least we do not see volunteers in our organisations very often. It would actually be a win-win situation - on the one hand an organisation could get free contribution and fresh ideas, on the other hand the volunteering person will acquire new experience, inspiration and become a full member of the community. In Ireland they have effectively involved ethnic minorities into community activities - that would also help to relieve the problem of unemployment.
1) Volunteering in the network activities - we need to find people, who are willing to give something back to the society. They are the potential that can teach or offer something to others. These people should be encouraged to contribute and show them that their knowledge and skills is an asset to the community. We should find people with interesting hobbies who could voluntarily introduce their activities during the ALW. The issue should also be reflected and valued in the media.
2) The Adult Learners' Festival and the Awards Ceremony were set up in a very interesting way. The recognised learners and projects were announced on the spot, the festivity and grandeur of the occasion were definitely the characteristic features. Our own categories of recognition should be reviewed - why not include projects. At the same time the Estonian Opening Ceremony has a wide range of participants who, in their turn, disseminate the ALW ideas in their communities and circles.
That kind of motivation boost is necessary to the coordinators, it enables to see counterparts' activities in other countries and confirm the idea that we are all doing great things, may be from slightly different perspectives, but we can see that its members' lifelong learning is relevant in any successful society. If the image of volunteering could be at least a little improved, it would be easier to organise the ALW. The person's own initiative in finding ways for giving voluntary contribution would be commendable.
Heli Gescheimer, the regional ALW coordinator in Harju County
Estonia
