ERASMUS+ ACCREDITED KA121 PROJECT
CREATIVITY & SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainable food isn’t only about the food itself. It’s a combination of factors including how the food is produced, how it’s distributed, how it’s packaged and how it’s consumed.
Food miles, or how far a food has traveled, plays a large role. But it’s a whole lot more complicated than that.
When considering the sustainability of food there are many other factors at play.
Resource usage, environmental impact and animal agriculture all affect sustainability. As do health considerations and social and economic impact.
Here are some presentations prepared by our students and our partners related to sustainable food and sustainable ways of eating.
SUSTAINABLE FOOD: UTOPIA OR REALITY? - MEMBERS OF THE ERASMUS+ PROJECT "SUSTAINABILITY & CREATIVITY" WERE TRYING TO ANSWER THIS QUESTION THROUGHOUT THE WEEK
On 22-31st, May 2023 short-term mobility of students project "Sustainability and Creativity" of the Erasmus+ accredited program took place at the President Valdas Adamkaus gymnasium. The theme of the mobility was "Sustainable food", so during the entire week, students together with project partners from Spain (Manresa town) participated in various experiential activities related to sustainable food and nutrition. Project members started their activities early in the morning: they participated in different activities in order to "break the ice" and get to know each other better. While walking around the surroundings of Aleksotas, they found out some facts about the history of the Glass factory, the barracks of the Freda military town, the old Freda cemetery and the history of the Botanic Garden.
On the second day of the mobility "Sustainability and Creativity" the participants went to Šiauliai. Firstly, our school students and guests from FEDAC Manresa school went to one of the most famous baroque monuments in Lithuania - the St. Bernard Monastery of Tytuvėnai, where they participated in the educational activity "Three gifts of God and other smells". An employee of the monastery introduced the guests to the plants of the monastery's herb garden, served them herbal tea and homemade baked cheese. All the participants of the educational program made a scent bag from herbs. Later, the day continued in Šiauliai city. Students developed their creativity skills in famous "Rūta" chocolate museum. Both the guests and our school students were introduced with the almost four thousand years of chocolate history, learned how the Mayans and Aztecs made chocolate and how its consumption traditions changed over the centuries. Finally, the students became chocolate masters for a short time. Project participants had the opportunity to make their own delicacies from different types of chocolate.
The project participants spent one more day at Rumšiškės Ethnographic Folk Museum, completing the tasks prepared by the teachers and working in groups. Well, the next morning, the students left for Vilnius by train - in a sustainable way, without leaving a mark on nature. The purpose of this trip was to visit the interactive "Technology and Engineering" museum, the "Turning" hall and learn more about the types of renewable energy, future perspectives, try and feel the electric charge by testing the Van de Graff generator, swing on a swing connected to a water pump and raising the water. A walk in the Old town of Vilnius gave everyone an opportunity to get to know the capital of Lithuania better and experience unforgettable moments by performing fun tasks.
After having some trips around Lithuania, experiential activities in the gymnasium were waiting for the students. One day, the participants cooked traditional Lithuanian and Spanish dishes. At the beginning of the activity, the students were introduced with traditional Lithuanian cuisine, regions and their characteristic ,dishes and spices. There was also spice tasting, the students tasted the spices found in every Lithuanian's garden, got to know their main properties and how they are used in Lithuanian dishes. Later, the students prepared Lithuanian and Spanish dishes in groups, such as: beetroot cold soup, potato pancakes, fried bread with cheese and garlic. The following Spanish dishes were chosen: traditional "Gazpacho" - cold Spanish tomato soup, omelette with potatoes, tuna salad, stew with rice, Spanish dessert Natilla. When the students were asked what they liked the most, they replied that it was stew with rice, omelette with potatoes, baked bread with cheese and garlic.
After full lunch the participants of the project presented their presentations on the topic: "Sustainable food in my school reality or utopia?" and later went to the Old town of Kaunas where interesting and creative tasks prepared by the teachers were waiting for them.
On the last day of the project "Creativity and Sustainability" the students investigated how much sugar is in 100g/ml of a product, had a discussion on which products can be used to avoid sugar, and participated in a brainstorming session. Well, the evening was crowned by a lively student program, a certificate awarding ceremony, and of course various games and a disco which was held by the 10th grade students.
THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS FROM RUMŠIŠKĖS ETHNOGRAPHICAL FOLK MUSEUM
HOW WE CLASSIFY FOOD
Unforgettable Journey of Exploration and Cultural Immersion: “Erasmus+” Mobility in La Unión, Spain
In the heart of the historic mining town of La Unión, Spain, a group of enthusiastic students embarked on an unforgettable journey as part of their Erasmus mobility program. From immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region to engaging in outdoor adventures and educational workshops, their experience was nothing short of transformative.Nestled amidst the charming streets of La Unión, the students found themselves captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and warm hospitality of the locals. Their journey began with a captivating exploration of Cremona city, where they wandered through its cobblestone streets, soaking in the architectural wonders and cultural treasures that adorned every corner. From majestic cathedrals to quaint cafes, each discovery sparked a sense of wonder and curiosity, igniting their passion for adventure.But it was their hiking trip that truly allowed them to connect with the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. As they traversed through rugged terrain and lush forests, the students found solace in the tranquility of nature, forging bonds that transcended language and cultural barriers. With each step, they embraced the spirit of exploration, eager to uncover the hidden gems that awaited them.Their journey of discovery continued with a visit to the mining museum in La Unión, where they delved into the fascinating history of the town's mining heritage. From ancient artifacts to interactive exhibits, they gained insight into the lives of the miners who once toiled beneath the earth's surface, shaping the identity of the town for generations to come.But it wasn't all adventure and exploration – the students also had the opportunity to engage in workshops focused on healthy eating and physical activity. Guided by local experts, they learned about the importance of nutrition and exercise in maintaining a balanced lifestyle, empowering them to make informed choices that would benefit their overall well-being.And what better way to experience the vibrant culture of Spain than through the art of flamenco? Under the guidance of skilled instructors, the students immersed themselves in the rhythmic movements and passionate melodies of this traditional dance, embracing the spirit of expression and creativity that defined the art form.As Easter approached, the students had the chance to share their own cultural traditions with the local community. Through lively presentations and interactive activities, they showcased the diversity of their homelands, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among all who attended.In the end, their journey through La Unión was more than just a study abroad experience – it was a celebration of friendship, discovery, and cultural exchange. As they bid farewell to the town that had captured their hearts, the students left with memories that would last a lifetime, forever grateful for the opportunity to embark on such an extraordinary adventure.
IMPRESSIONS FROM THE MOBILITY IN LA UNION , SPAIN
Harmonious Living: Cultivating Wellness through Healthy Eating, Physical Activity, and Nature's Bounty - An Erasmus Mobility Initiative in Manresa
From 21 to 28th April, students in grades 8-11 of President Valdas Adamkus participated in the short-term mobility of students in Spain of the Erasmus+ KA121 accreditation project No. 2023-1-LT01-KA121-SCH-000117775, entitled "Sustainability and creativity". The Sustainability and Creativity eARTh week was conducted in the city of Manresa, Spain, in collaboration with the Fedac Manresa school community. The project encompassed a range of activities designed to enhance students' knowledge of sustainable development and foster creativity. These activities proved to be an effective means of promoting students' positive psychological well-being, self-esteem, sustainable eating habits, physical activity, and a positive relationship with nature.
One of the principal objectives of this project is to foster a positive psychological state and self-esteem among students. Participation in an international project enabled students to recognise their value and significance in communicating with an equal youth community from another country. The opportunity for students to engage in cooperative and communicative activities with a diverse international team not only encouraged them to expand their horizons and develop social and communication skills in English, but also facilitated the strengthening of their psychological resilience and self-confidence. The establishment of a climate of trust and confidence, the implementation of interactive activities designed to facilitate greater familiarity and understanding between the project participants, a guided tour of the school facilities and grounds, the articulation of the school's core values, the delineation of the project's objectives and the anticipated outcomes, collectively contributed to the achievement of these objectives. Additionally, students from Lithuania had the opportunity to participate in the distinctive celebration of St. George, which is observed not only in the city of Manresa but also throughout the region of Catalonia. In order to gain a deeper understanding of the culture and values of another country, the students of the Gymnasium of President Valdas Adamkus were involved in the creation of the performance, assuming the role of actors. The performance was presented to members of the Fedac Manresa school community.
Furthermore, the project encompassed initiatives designed to foster sustainable dietary practices and physical activity. Furthermore, participants were afforded the opportunity to select health-promoting foods and to prepare nutritious meals in accordance with the culinary traditions of another country, while residing with host families from that country. The activities were characterised by a high degree of physical movement, including warm-up exercises and orienteering games with tasks in the cities of Manresa and Barcelona. This initiative facilitated the students' acquisition of knowledge about the cities, their cultural heritage, and the Old Town, while also fostering an understanding of the importance of maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.
Furthermore, it is important to consider the project's potential to enhance students' relationship with nature. The Fedac Manresa School is situated in close proximity to the picturesque mountains and river. A mere dozen kilometres away lies the impressive and renowned Monserrat Monastery, which the Fedac Manresa school community was privileged to visit on 24 April. The hiking excursion afforded students the opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding area and to gain an understanding of the importance of respecting and protecting it.
The project reached its conclusion with an art event at the school. During this event, art installations created by students from both countries were presented throughout the week. These installations were created in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals. Additionally, a fashion show was held, showcasing clothes created by students from recycled, secondary raw materials or grown-up, worn clothes. The event provided an opportunity for attendees to express themselves and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the world. It also enabled them to expand their knowledge of the principles of sustainability and ecological responsibility, conscious consumption, and to suggest potential solutions to these issues.
The project was undoubtedly a singular experience that left indelible impressions on the students, as well as facilitating their growth and development in various areas of life. The students expanded their understanding of sustainability and ecological responsibility, and demonstrated their creativity through the creation of art installations and the presentation of garments at a fashion show event.
Aistė Valavičienė
Erasmus Mobility Program at President Valdas Adamkus Gymnasium: A Journey of Learning and Adventure
The “Erasmus+” KA121 mobility program recently brought a vibrant wave of international collaboration and cultural exchange to President Valdas Adamkus Gymnasium. This program, designed to enhance educational experiences through cross-cultural interactions, saw students from various countries participating in a myriad of activities, each aimed at fostering teamwork, creativity, and eco-consciousness. The week-long event was packed with exciting events, from orienteering contests and workshops to cultural excursions and intellectual challenges bringing joy for students from Spain and Lithuania.
The week began with an orienteering contest in Kaunas Old city, where students, grouped into international teams, navigated through designated routes, solving clues and finding checkpoints. This activity not only tested their navigation skills but also encouraged effective communication and teamwork.
One of the highlights of the program was the series of workshops focusing on sustainability and innovation. Students worked together to create solar bags, a practical and eco-friendly project that combined creativity with technology. Another workshop had them designing eco parks, emphasizing the importance of green spaces in urban environments. These hands-on activities allowed students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility.
A visit to the Rumšiškės Ethnographical Museum offered students a deep dive into Lithuanian history and culture. As they explored the extensive open-air museum, students learned about traditional Lithuanian lifestyles, crafts, and architecture. This excursion was not just educational but also a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Lithuania, providing a meaningful context to their stay in the country.
Throughout the week, students engaged in various team-building activities designed to strengthen their collaborative skills. These included problem-solving tasks, creative projects, and physical challenges, all aimed at fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation among participants from different cultural backgrounds.
The students also had the opportunity to visit Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania. This excursion included a tour of the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where they marveled at the stunning architecture and learned about the city's rich history. The visit to Vilnius was a highlight, offering a mix of educational and recreational experiences. A trip to the Lithuanian “Energy and Technical” museum in Vilnius provided an insightful look into the world of energy and its various sources. Through interactive exhibits and informative displays, students gained a better understanding of energy production and consumption, further reinforcing the importance of sustainable practices.
The last day visit to the Botanical garden was another enriching experience. Here, students explored diverse plant species and learned about the significance of biodiversity and conservation. The serene environment of the garden offered a perfect setting for reflection and learning. The program concluded with a mind-battle competition, where students faced off in a series of intellectual challenges. This activity tested their knowledge, quick thinking, and problem-solving abilities, wrapping up the week on an engaging and competitive note.
The Erasmus Mobility Program at President Valdas Adamkus Gymnasium was a resounding success, leaving students with unforgettable memories and valuable lessons. The diverse activities, from orienteering and workshops to cultural excursions and intellectual challenges, provided a comprehensive educational experience.