ULusófona Participates in 3 HorizonEurope Projects and Achieves 4 COST

Lusófona University has recently stood out on the international stage by securing the approval of several significant projects in European research and development programmes, namely Horizon Europe and COST – European Cooperation in Science and Technology.

Horizon Europe Projects

Within the framework of the Horizon Europe programme, Lusófona University submitted four applications to the call HORIZON-CL2-2024-TRANSFORMATIONS-01, under the theme "A Sustainable Future for Europe", of which two were approved. This programme aims to address political and social challenges, promoting the prosperity of the social economy and improving working conditions in various sectors.

Project 1 - European Youth in Education and in Transition to the Labour Market

One of the approved projects aims to analyse the factors influencing educational choices among young people aged 15 to 30, with the goal of increasing the rate of young people with tertiary education, reducing school dropout rates, and promoting vocational learning. Additionally, the project focuses on the successful transition of young people to the labour market, preparing them for sustainable and fulfilling careers. With 11 partners involved and submitted by the EDU-Lab consortium, it includes the participation of researcher Filomena Parada from the CeiED (Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies in Education and Development).

Project 2 - Improving Tourism and Hospitality Worker Well-being Through Social Dialogue

The second project aims to deepen the inclusion of workers in the Tourism and Hospitality sector by promoting a more inclusive, equitable, and effective social dialogue that reflects the diverse work realities in the sector, both at the European Union and national levels. Supported by nine partners, it is led by Tânia Gaspar from the HEI-Lab (Human-Environment Interaction Lab).

Project 3 - SERENA - Assessing and Improving Access to Health and Social Care Services for Children Rendered Vulnerable by Abuse

This project also receives funding from Horizon Europe and aims to improve the detection of child abuse and identify barriers and inequalities in access to healthcare, while proposing recommendations to optimise support for vulnerable children. The project is led by researcher Diogo Lamela from the HEI-Lab.

Achievements in the COST Programme

Regarding the COST – European Cooperation in Science and Technology programme, Lusófona University had four out of its five applications approved, standing out as the coordinator in two major projects, which are:

• Connecting Critical Pedagogies, Inclusive Art Forms and Alternative Barometers for Urban Sustainability
• Climate Change Impacts on Mental Health in Europe
• Critical Perspectives on Career and Career Guidance
• Architectural and Urban Ambiances of European Cities

Application 1 - Connecting Critical Pedagogies, Inclusive Art Forms and Alternative Barometers for Urban Sustainability

The project aims to promote more sustainable cities through innovative methodologies that integrate ancestral and indigenous voices and artistic practices. This initiative will be applied in three areas of urban circular economies: food systems, construction/housing processes, and public spaces. This approach seeks to overcome the Eurocentric perspective and incorporate local and creative strategies. With participation from 16 countries, it is led by the CeiED of Lusófona University.

Application 2 - Climate Change Impacts on Mental Health in Europe

This project explores the relationship between climate change and mental health, aiming to develop response strategies and promote social action and long-term sustainability. This approach seeks to use European networks to tackle mental health challenges related to climate change. In the medium term, this initiative aims to help the European community maintain individual and social well-being in the face of climate change challenges. With participation from 28 countries, it is coordinated by Climate Change Impacts on Mental Health in Europe (CliMent), led by TerrA.ID (Research Centre in Territory, Architecture, and Environment) of Lusófona University.

Application 3 - Critical Perspectives on Career and Career Guidance

This project intends to explore changes in careers in the contemporary world and the necessary responses from public policies and practices, promoting collaboration among COST member countries, neighbouring countries, and international partners, with an emphasis on supporting and facilitating knowledge exchange. With participation from 29 countries, the project is spearheaded by Norway.

Application 4 - Architectural and Urban Ambiances of European Cities

The project aims to address quality of life issues in habitable spaces arising from a predominant "bottom-up" approach in design and construction. By integrating this approach and emphasising sensory experiences, the project aims to create solutions that prioritise human experience in urban planning. With direct participation from 18 countries, Portugal is the leading country.

These initiatives are a testament to Lusófona University's growing role in international research and collaboration, reinforcing its commitment to addressing critical issues for the future of Europe and the world. These projects will significantly contribute to social innovation, urban sustainability, and community well-being, placing Lusófona University at the forefront of academic and technological research.

Website ILIND