Group Mobilities of Adults under the Erasmus+ Programme: Fostering Creativity and Intercultural Dialogue
Tavankut as a Classroom of Active Citizenship
The Erasmus+ mobility in Tavankut, held from 4 to 6 December 2025, brought together a group of adult learners from Slovenia and local participants with the aim of exploring civic rights, active participation, and cultural diversity within the multi-ethnic environment of Vojvodina. The programme, jointly organised by Zavod Burja and HKPD Matija Gubec Tavankut, was based on linking local heritage, social processes, and contemporary approaches to education for democratic citizenship. With its peaceful farmsteads, strong minority cultural scene, and distinctive tradition of straw art, Tavankut proved to be an ideal setting for experiential learning.
The very first meeting focused on understanding the objectives, expectations, and working methods of the mobility. In an informal and open atmosphere, participants became acquainted with the local community and the context in which different identities and traditions intertwine. The mobility confirmed that mutual trust and a sense of belonging are essential foundations for joint learning, especially when addressing topics such as active citizenship, dialogue, and social responsibility.
Part of the programme was dedicated to civic rights in practice. Through workshops and discussions, participants analysed political, social, and economic aspects of civic life in Vojvodina, a region historically shaped by the coexistence of numerous ethnic communities. Field visits to various organisations in nearby Subotica further deepened participants’ understanding of the role of civil society and minority associations in building an inclusive democratic community. Participants actively discussed opportunities and challenges of contemporary society, as well as ways of transferring good practices to their own local environments.
The following day of the mobility offered insights into Tavankut’s rich cultural heritage. Visits to the Balažević ethno farmstead, Orluškov salaš, and exploration of the Tavankut ethno village demonstrated how the community builds a sense of identity and continuity through the restoration of traditional farmsteads, cultural tourism, and volunteering. Participants gained valuable insights into how cultural heritage can be preserved in a sustainable way, by involving the local population and creating spaces for collective action. The cultural heritage of the Bunjevci Croats of Vojvodina in Tavankut serves as an important tool for strengthening social cohesion and local development.
The final day was, among other workshops, dedicated to Tavankut’s unique tradition of straw art. Through a hands-on workshop, participants learned techniques that have been passed down through generations. Working with straw proved to be an excellent example of the intersection between sustainability, creativity, and intangible cultural heritage. Through their own creative process, participants experienced a connection with natural materials, while conversations with local artisans opened discussions on how traditional skills can become part of a contemporary, environmentally oriented way of life. Participants also visited Orluškov salaš, where they learned about good practices in sustainable development and permaculture.
The remaining time was devoted to reflection and planning future cooperation. Through structured discussions, participants analysed their personal and professional development, reflected on the competencies they had developed, and formulated ideas for future projects. They particularly highlighted the importance of intercultural dialogue, the strengthening of political and social literacy, a deeper understanding of democratic processes, and the inspiration gained through encounters with the local community.
The mobility in Tavankut demonstrated how adult education can be firmly rooted in the local context while remaining open to European values. Over several intensive days, participants developed civic, social, cultural, green, and reflective competencies, became familiar with Tavankut’s rich traditions, and strengthened their awareness of their own role within the community. The meeting of two organisations and two cultures created space for new friendships, mutual inspiration, and continued cooperation in the spirit of solidarity, partnership-based dialogue, and active citizenship.
