The DCE Promoters' Network held its 6th meeting in Lisbon, hosted by the Portuguese Ministry of Education, on June 1 and 2.

The purpose of the meeting was to launch the next phase of work and familiarise new members with the concept of DCE. Various workshops and discussions introduced members to DCE materials and activities.

The Network aims to promote DCE principles in learning environments, contribute to policy development and teacher training, and engage in awareness-raising projects. Additionally, the Network will collaborate on the development of new policy instruments, guidelines, and resources for educators and other stakeholders.

Mr João Costa, Minister of Education of Portugal, welcomed members of the Network to the Country, and discussed the importance of the national strategy on citizenship education (that, among other things, made the teaching of citizenship education mandatory in schools). The Minister highlighted how citizenship (including its digital dimension) is a fundamental and cross-curricular concept now included at all levels of education. 

The opening session included presentations by Ahmet-Murat Kiliç from the Council of Europe, and Pedro Cunha, Director-General of Education in Portugal, who emphasized the importance of digital citizenship and stated how “even though there are threats and clouds in the horizon, there is also an ocean of opportunities that the digital age offers”.

The meeting was attended by representatives of 21 Council of Europe member States.

Visit the DCE Promoters’ Network webpage to find the full list of appointed Promoters and be updated about their activities.