Together with T2 Campus and other partners, EnergyVille has received a European recognition to further strengthen the region’s sustainable and innovative learning ecosystem.
EnergyVille, together with T2 Campus and partners SyntraPXL, VDAB, Stad Genk, EducaThor, KRC Genk and Stebo vzw, has been given the green light by the Flemish government and the European Union to further develop the innovative learning ecosystem in and around Thor Park. Thanks to diverse and inclusive learning environments, both young people and adults will have the opportunity to discover and strengthen their talents, with a strong focus on the energy transition and the development of technological talent.
Project with a social impact
After a formative phase, the learning ecosystem is ready to address energy and technology challenges in Genk’s neighbourhoods around Thor Park, such as Waterschei, New Texas and the wider area. At the same time, there is a strong need for technically skilled talent in Genk. The learning ecosystem aims to contribute to the solution by inspiring residents to learn informally.
Thanks to this project, together with local partners, it will be possible to make energy research more accessible to the residents of the city of Genk and its surroundings. Through workshops and experiments related to their living environment, they will have the chance to be part of the energy transition’. Says Professor Bart Vermang, EnergyVille.
Strong cooperation for Genk's future
The learning ecosystem consists of a strong network of partners. Anneleen Conjaerts, Community Manager at T2 Campus, is already excited about the further expansion of the Genk native’s living environment: ‘Each organisation involved is active in Genk and has specific expertise that strengthens our network. This creates a diverse and complementary partnership in which we not only share knowledge, but also create concrete opportunities for residents to discover and use their talents. By working together with businesses, knowledge institutions and social organisations, we are building bridges between learning, working and social impact.
Project advisor Eline Vermeersch of the WSE European Department also emphasises the importance of this learning ecosystem: ‘This project shows how collaboration between neighbourhood actors and innovative partners creates a fertile ground for the development of learning and local tech talent. Waterschei and New Texas residents are experimenting with new energy and technology ideas and techniques in the familiar environment of their neighbourhood. In this way, local organisations are working together to create a strong culture of learning. And that is the essence of a learning ecosystem.
