Yes we can!

At the beginning of this year (2010), a multi-lateral co-operation of six countries themed 'lifelong learning' for all EU citizens started, aiming for the development of mathematical competences for people with Down Syndrome.

The project is called "Yes we can!" and Austria will be its lead-partner – supported by five European countries: Italy, The Czech Republic, Rumania, Denmark and Germany.

The EU-project "Yes we can!" lasts two years and will highlight the needs and possibilities for development of people with Down Syndrome Europe-wide. Thanks to the Grundtvig Programme they will get the chance for mathematical education, which will be taught on the basis of a maths-toolbox used in workshops, a DVD and a handbook.

The project was selected for funding under the Grundtvig sub-programme.
Grundtvig was launched in 2000 as part of the overarching Lifelong Learning Programme and aims to provide adults with ways to improve their knowledge and skills, keeping them mentally fit and potentially more employable.

Multilateral network are aimed at improving adult education systems through the development and transfer of innovation and good practice. Networks of experts and organisations ("Grundtvig Networks") are working on the development of adult education in the discipline, subject area or management aspect to which they relate and on identifying, improving and disseminating relevant good practice and innovation.

Operational objectives are to assist people from vulnerable social groups and in marginal social contexts, in particular older people and those who have left education without basic qualifications, in order to give them alternative opportunities to access adult education.