The European dimension of the Erasmus+ programme often opens the door to educational environments that may initially seem distant, but which prove to be closely connected in terms of their challenges, priorities and potential solutions. Denmark was a clear example of this.
From 14 to 17 April 2026, staff members of Public Open University Čakovec participated in a job-shadowing activity at CELF – Center for Erhvervsrettede uddannelser Lolland-Falster in Nykøbing Falster, Denmark. The mobility was implemented within the Erasmus+ project 2024-1-HR01-KA121-ADU-000222998, as part of Public Open University Čakovec’s Erasmus accreditation in the field of adult education.
The main objective of the mobility was to gain a better understanding of the Danish adult education system, particularly the AMU model, which is based on shorter, clearly focused and practically applicable learning outcomes. Particular emphasis was placed on considering which elements of this approach could be applied in the further development of adult education programmes in Čakovec.
During their stay, the participants became acquainted with CELF’s broader institutional environment and the newly established UCE structure, which brings together several educational institutions in the Lolland-Falster area. It was particularly valuable to observe how a regional institution connects education for young people, vocational education and adult education while remaining closely aligned with the needs of the local economy. This provided a clearer insight into how adult education fits within Denmark’s broader lifelong learning framework.
A central part of the mobility focused on exploring the AMU system, or Arbejdsmarkedsuddannelser. Its strong connection with the labour market, flexibility and practical orientation were particularly noteworthy. The participants had the opportunity to observe how programmes are developed on the basis of labour market needs, through clearly defined learning outcomes and structured content planning, while incorporating digital and green competences whenever relevant. This approach prompted new reflections on the development of shorter, modular and practically oriented programmes at Public Open University Čakovec.
The mobility also encouraged a comparison between the Danish and Croatian contexts. A number of discussions highlighted issues that are equally relevant in Croatia, including the importance of education vouchers, the challenges involved in forming sustainable learner groups and the need to align educational provision more effectively with labour market needs. These comparisons were valuable in considering which approaches could be adapted to the local environment, particularly in the field of non-formal adult education.
Particular attention was also given to the ways in which CELF attracts and supports adult learners. It was useful to see how digital communication channels, social media and other promotional tools are used to increase the visibility and accessibility of educational programmes. The participants were also introduced to educational ICT solutions, virtual tools and innovative learning environments that can further strengthen learner engagement.
One of the most impressive parts of the mobility concerned innovations in social care and healthcare programmes. Examples were presented of how simulations, virtual reality and artificial intelligence-supported approaches are used to create realistic learning scenarios. A visit to the Innovation Lab, which included presentations of technological projects and work involving AI-supported drones, demonstrated how innovation, creativity and practical application can be successfully integrated into adult and vocational education.
The mobility fully achieved its objectives. It enabled the participants to develop a deeper understanding of the Danish adult and vocational education systems, gain a clearer insight into how programme quality and relevance are maintained, and acquire a range of concrete ideas related to curriculum planning, programme promotion and digital learner support. At the same time, it created space for reflection on how selected approaches could be meaningfully transferred to the work of Public Open University Čakovec.
For Public Open University Čakovec, this mobility represents another important step in strengthening the European dimension of its work in adult education. The knowledge and experience gained will provide a valuable foundation for the development of future non-formal programmes and for the continued improvement of the quality and relevance of adult education within the local community.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Agency for Mobility and EU Programmes (AMPEU). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
