RuralSkills project partners meet in Bursa, Türkiye, to advance cooperation and project development
On 22 July 2026, partners of the Erasmus+ RuralSkills project gathered in Bursa, Türkiye, for an international project meeting hosted by the SUAL Hub. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress achieved so far, coordinating upcoming activities and strengthening cooperation among the consortium partners.
During the meeting, the partners discussed project management, quality assurance and plans for sustainable project development. Particular attention was given to the work on skills mapping, stakeholder engagement and the Future Skills system, which are important components of the project’s approach to developing modern learning opportunities for rural communities.
The consortium also continued developing the concept of AI based XR learning tools built around practical and engaging professional learning scenarios. These technologies are intended to provide learners with more interactive and practice oriented educational experiences and contribute to the development of skills relevant to the changing needs of rural communities.
Another important area of discussion was the RuralSkills digital platform. The partners discussed further steps for disseminating the project’s results and ensuring that the developed resources reach a wider audience. Future international meetings in Bulgaria and Spain are also being planned as part of the project’s continued implementation.
The meeting programme also included a visit to the XR Ed Tech Studio, where the partners explored the possibilities of immersive learning using Oculus VR technology. The practical demonstration offered an opportunity to see how digital innovations can be integrated into education and training, support the development of practical skills and create new learning opportunities for people living and working in rural areas across Europe.
The Bursa meeting once again demonstrated the value of international cooperation and the exchange of experience between project partners. By combining expertise in vocational education, digital technologies, innovation and rural development, the RuralSkills consortium continues to work on solutions that can expand learning opportunities and strengthen the skills of rural communities.
The partners will now continue working on the development of project results, the RuralSkills digital platform and dissemination activities. Further transnational meetings in Bulgaria and Spain will provide additional opportunities to exchange experience, strengthen cooperation and plan the next stages of the project.
Anastasiya Lendel
Information-publishing centre
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