WP 2 Network Building and Community Engagement (Online Meeting)

Project: CoVE STEM EUROPE
Date: 03 September 2025, 14:00 – 15:00
Location: Microsoft Teams - (Online Meeting)
Organized by: ZDI.NRW– Joan Vandehoek (Project Leader)

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On 03 September 2025, the online meeting for Work Package 2 (WP2) of the CoVE STEM EUROPE project was held. The project meeting focused on the CoVE STEM Europe project, where Joan Vandehoek outlined the structure and objectives, proposing a core group to streamline discussions and problem-solving. She emphasized the importance of regional captains and work package leaders in guiding the project and reassured participants that meeting minutes and reports would be shared openly.

    
Photo during the online meeting

The meeting focused on key structural and organizational aspects of project implementation. Joan Vandehoek introduced the overall framework and stressed the importance of creating a core group to facilitate discussions and support problem-solving. The role of regional captains and WP leaders was emphasized as essential for guiding activities and ensuring coherence across all work streams.

A recurring issue raised during the meeting concerned access difficulties faced by some colleagues in joining online sessions. This highlighted the need for clearer communication and technical support to guarantee full participation.
The discussion then moved to defining responsibilities for each partner. A new reporting template was introduced to improve the consistency of updates, helping to track both progress and challenges across work packages.
Updates were shared on ongoing research activities, including the distribution of templates and upcoming deadlines. Progress since the project kick-off was reviewed, with particular attention to aligning research outcomes with the broader objectives of CoVE STEM EUROPE. Additional agenda points included: Updates on the accreditation program in Mathematics and STEM; Plans for policy advocacy under WP5; The importance of accurate time and expense registration to secure budget compliance and future funding.

Concerns about the timesheet system were noted, and participants exchanged ideas on potential grants and external collaborations, including a vocational school in Turkey.
Looking ahead, Joan confirmed the scheduling of the next WP4 meeting, with an emphasis on partners completing assigned tasks (“homework”) before the session. Preparations for upcoming Transnational Partner Meetings were also discussed, with practical information shared about the next meeting in Kosovo, covering logistics, accommodation, and networking opportunities.

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment to collaborative progress, ensuring that WP2 continues to provide the foundation for efficient coordination and transparent communication across the Project.