📍 Vilnius, Lithuania
📅 31 March – 3 April 2025
🏛️ Mykolas Romeris University
The second PAAR-Net Training School on Participatory Co-Creation Methods and the II. International Knowledge Exchange Event successfully took place in Vilnius, Lithuania, bringing together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and community stakeholders for an interdisciplinary and collaborative week of learning and exchange.
Hosted by Mykolas Romeris University, the programme focused on participatory approaches with older adults and explored how co-creation, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration can contribute to more inclusive research, policy, and practice.
The Training School emphasized hands-on learning, reflection, and international collaboration, while the International Knowledge Exchange Event expanded discussions on technology, innovation, participation, and community engagement beyond disciplinary boundaries.
Key Highlights from the Thematic Sessions
Participatory Co-Creation Approaches
Participants explored participatory and co-creation methodologies in ageing research and practice through interactive sessions and case-based learning activities. Discussions focused on inclusive research design, co-production, and ethical engagement with older adults and vulnerable groups.
Technology, Innovation, and Digital Inclusion
Sessions addressed digital literacy, citizen science, digital empowerment, and accessibility in technology-related research and innovation. Participants also engaged with tools and approaches developed through initiatives such as AFECO and DigitalScouts.
Interdisciplinary and International Collaboration
The programme created opportunities for collaboration and exchange among participants from different countries and disciplinary backgrounds, strengthening international networking and interdisciplinary dialogue within PAAR-Net.
International Knowledge Exchange Event (IKEE)
Held on 2–3 April 2025 under the theme: “Collaboration in Practice: Technology and Innovation Research Beyond Boundaries” the II. International Knowledge Exchange Event expanded on the themes of the Training School through keynote talks, stakeholder panels, and interactive World Café discussions.
Key Themes Included:
- Urban design and age-friendly environments
- AI accessibility and digital citizenship
- Participatory innovation and co-creation
- Policy engagement and community participation
- Mobility and collaboration experiences within PAAR-Net
The event also highlighted the importance of engaging older adults as active agents and co-creators in research, policy development, and innovation processes.
Outcomes
The events in Vilnius strengthened PAAR-Net’s commitment to participatory, interdisciplinary, and transnational collaboration. Through interactive learning, dialogue, and knowledge exchange, participants explored how participatory approaches can amplify the voices of older adults and contribute to meaningful and sustainable social impact.
The hybrid format further supported accessibility and inclusivity by enabling participation from across Europe and beyond.
