The next Erasmus+ Human Rights mobility took place from November 12-19, 2022 in Antalya, Turkey.
Learning is not just a classroom, it’s not just a school bench, chalk and blackboard, it’s also learning through action, discovery and exploration.
Such an opportunity is provided by international projects of the Erasmus + program. This time, as a “Human Rights” project group, we participated in mobility in Adalya Koleji, and the leading theme was human rights to live with dignity in a natural, clean and healthy environment.
Monday’s seminar under the theme “Environmental citizenship” was led by ZST students.
In the afternoon we visited the ancient city of Lyrboton Kome integrating with the Turkish and Greek groups.
The second day of mobility in Turkey was a panel discussion on the causes and effects of climate change. Students from partner schools in Greece and Turkey presented the latest environmental data. We also had the opportunity to visit the Municipal Solid Waste Treatment Center, which uses the latest technologies for biogas extraction. We spent the afternoon at the headquarters of Turkey’s largest pro-environmental nonprofit TEMA Foundation. Volunteers introduced us to the main objectives, goals and current projects focusing on minimizing the negative effects of human impact on environmental degradation. After an intensive day, so rich in practical knowledge, we felt that it is not too late, that we still have the power to make things happen.
Erasmus+ is always bringing people together, seeking inspiration, finding solutions. A lesson in history, geography, art in the field? Why not! Plus P.E. and we have full school subjects, and in what wonderful natural settings.
The third day in Antalya within the framework of the international project “Human Rights” we spent in the field visiting the ancient city of Termessos located over 1000 meters above sea level. The hardships of climbing were rewarded by a wonderful view and one of the most beautifully located ancient amphitheaters in this part of Turkey. “The Eagle’s Nest,” as Termessos was called by Alexander of Macedon, who, by the way, tried unsuccessfully to conquer it, lies within the National Park, and the remains of its buildings stand among a pine forest that is home to many rare plant species. Cross-curricular correlation and field lessons are a great way to learn.
Thursday’s trip took us to the ancient city of Aphrodisias built in the 3rd century BC, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a perfectly preserved temple complex dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite, with an agora, theater and baths. Another highlight was the Arapapisti Canyon, which offered breathtaking views. Is there anything more to add? Well… it simply has to be experienced.
Mobility in Antalya within the framework of the Erasmus Plus Human Rights project has come to an end. Friday is always a time for summaries, evaluations, setting the next goals. It is not easy to part after such an intense week. We would like to thank Adalya Koleji for the wonderful hospitality, and our partners from Greece and Turkey for the unforgettable experience. The situation in the world is frightening, human rights continue to be violated, war is taking a cruel toll. That is why the voice of young people who believe in values such as freedom, dignity, solidarity, respect is so important. United in diversity – that’s us.
See you in March in Greece.
