TEPA Project

In the new EU member states there is an urgent need for local animators – for people playing key role in the creation of local partnerships, mobilizing communities to find solutions for local problems and allowing them to benefit from European funds. The role of local animator is highly complex and requires a variety of social skills. Due to the shortage of trainers, the learning opportunities in the new member states are very limited in this field.

Our project developed a curriculum for trainers of local animators in five new EU member states: Slovakia, Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and Slovenia. Training materials are based on development theories and the best practices of the participating countries. We produceed printed manuals (in English and in five national languages), Didactic notes to the TEPA methodology and a didactic DVD. Two pilot courses for 25 participants each (5 from each country) was also be carried out to test contents and methodology. Project results and their dissemination were discussed during the international TEPA Networking Event.

The involvement and close cooperation of the national rural development networks of the five participating countries (plus the Swedish network as external evaluator) ensured the viability of the project. Through the PREPARE network, results will be disseminated to the rest of the Central and Eastern European countries.