SHERISE Erasmus+ Project: The First International Mobility in Istanbul Promotes STEM Education, Inclusion and Gender Equality

Istanbul, Türkiye | 20–24 April 2026

SHERISE is more than an educational project: it is an opportunity to learn together, value differences and build a future in which every young person can contribute, regardless of gender or background.

The first international mobility of the Erasmus+ project SHERISE – Social Harmony and Empowerment through Reinvigorated Inclusive Social Endeavor took place in Istanbul, Türkiye, from 20 to 24 April 2026. Hosted by Büyükçekmece Atatürk Anadolu Lisesi (BAAL), the event brought together students and teachers from Türkiye, Greece, Italy andPoland, creating an inspiring opportunity for international cooperation, intercultural dialogue and innovative learning.

The mobility involved students and teachers from the partner schools, including our IIS “Leonardo da Vinci” in a shared educational experience aimed at promoting inclusion, gender equality, entrepreneurship and active citizenship through STEM and STEAM activities.

Learning Through Collaboration and Innovation

Throughout the week, participants took part in practical workshops, collaborative challenges and creative activities designed to strengthen their scientific, technological and problem-solving skills. Working in mixed international teams, students exchanged ideas, developed innovative proposals and explored how science and technology can contribute to addressing real-world challenges.

A central event of the mobility was STEMFEST, where students presented projects addressing environmental sustainability, and forensic science. Among the proposals developed were Earth Roof, a concept for transforming unused rooftops into green spaces to reduce urban heat and support cleaner cities; TL-3000 (Thermodynamic Law Enforcement), a device concept exploring the use of thermodynamic principles to estimate the time of an event; and Paw Track, a digital platform designed to connect citizens, volunteers and organizations working to support stray animals.

These projects demonstrated the students’ creativity, teamwork and ability to apply scientific knowledge to practical problems. They also encouraged participants to consider the social and environmental impact of technological innovation.

Promoting Gender Equality Through the WINGS European Policy Forum

Another key moment was the WINGS European Policy Forum, during which students discussed gender equality in education and STEM fields. Through roundtable discussions, they developed recommendations to make schools and workplaces more inclusive and to encourage more girls to pursue scientific, technological and entrepreneurial careers.

Their proposals included increasing the number of practical STEM lessons, creating and improving school laboratories, organizing science festivals, highlighting women scientists as role models and establishing mentoring opportunities with women working in STEM. Participants also emphasized the importance of challenging gender stereotypes, supporting young women's ambitions and ensuring equal opportunities in education and employment.

The discussions highlighted the importance of giving young people an active voice in shaping educational policies and promoting positive change in their communities.

Intercultural Exchange and European Friendship

Beyond its educational objectives, the mobility offered a valuable opportunity to experience different cultures and traditions. Thanks to the hospitality of Turkish host families, international students were able to discover everyday life in Türkiye, strengthen their communication skills and build meaningful relationships with their peers.

The cultural programme also provided opportunities to explore Istanbul, a city where European and Asian influences meet and where history, traditions and modern life coexist. Ice-breaking activities, informal conversations and shared experiences helped participants overcome language barriers and develop a stronger sense of European belonging.

For the students of Liceo Scientifico Statale “Leonardo da Vinci” of Aversa accompanied by prof.ssa Carmen Fiano ( Erasmus coordinator who collaborates with the school for internationalization and Erasmus porjects) and prof.ssa addalena Tavassi , the experience represented an important opportunity to broaden their horizons, improve their English communication skills and appreciate the value of cultural diversity and international cooperation.