A Happy Life in a Healthy Environment  

Between March 18-22, 2024 , Scoala Gimnaziala "Mihai Eminescu" Vaslui was the host of the first transnational meeting of the project. The activities started with the presentation of the participants and the schools involved in the project. On visiting the school, the guests were able to interact with the students and teachers from the Vaslui school. After a team competition, in which Romanian and foreign students chose the project logo, an interesting activity to get to know the local skyline was carried out, an "urban treasure hunt", in which students and teachers alike visited the city in a new form, by organizing a competition, Vaslui Express. They discovered a series of urban objectives in the municipality of Vaslui, using the map and compass, looking for the route clues, necessary to complete the tasks. All stages of the competition were successfully completed, the most important objective of this activity being the promotion of the city, the discovery of the geographical and cultural landscape of the locality by the project partners and the promotion of an active and healthy lifestyle. This activity was carried out in collaboration with a team of teachers from the Vaslui Children's Palace. 

The next day all the students and teachers involved in the project participated in a sapling planting activity in the afforestation site in the Balteni Forestry Canton within the Brodoc Forestry Circle. Also, the children traveled with real pleasure and with particular interest the educational route set up in the "Bălteni" Natural Reserve, located within the reach of the Mărășeni Forestry Canton, where, in addition to the flowering or budding vernal plants, some with the status of a natural monument, such as Fritillaria meleagris – the variegated tulip, they learned a lot of information about the plant and animal species present in the reserve and understood the importance of protecting the environment, especially forest ecosystems. Last but not least, the children also had a good portion of fun, participating in the fun activities proposed by the organizers of the educational route (Tic Tac Toe = X and zero, in different versions, jenga, running route, walking on a beam, on rounds etc.). In the afternoon of the same days, the Romanian students and their guests participated in two workshops in which they made decorative or household items from recyclable materials and created posters encouraging the selective collection of waste.  

On March 20, the World Day of Happiness, the project teams made a documentation visit to the Faculty of Animal and Food Resources Engineering of the "Ion Ionescu de la Brad" University of Life Sciences in Iași. A team of enthusiastic students, guided by an assistant professor , involved all Romanian and foreign students in a nutrition workshop, offering the participants the opportunity to improve their lifestyle and learn what the choices are correct feeding in any situation. 

On Thursday, March 21, the project teams went to the Village Museum in the village of Sauca, where a cultural activity took place in collaboration with the "Peonies" Association.The event, presented to the guests in the form of a workshop, the symbolism of the martișor and the technique of making it, as well as the secrets of the traditional local culinary art. The students present at the event had the opportunity to prepare and taste the Moldavian "Poale-n brau" pies under the careful guidance of the ladies from the Laza "Peony" Association.The day ended with an artistic show in which Romanian and foreign students presented customs and traditions specific to each country involved in the project, and the host students organized an Eco parade, a fashion show in which they presented clothing items made from recyclable materials. 

On the last day of the mobility, all students and teachers participated in a documentary visit to the Lacu Roșu nature reserve, having the opportunity to walk an easy mountain trail. On this occasion, all those involved became aware of the importance of protecting the environment and of a  healthy lifestyle, in which outdoor movement must be part of the daily routine. During the whole week, the students and the guest teachers participated in several demonstration lessons held by the teachers of the "Mihai Eminescu" Vaslui Secondary School, having the opportunity to discover the way lessons are conducted in the Romanian school, the methods, teaching techniques and modern resources used, thus achieving a real exchange of pedagogical experience and best practices in the classroom.

Between April 29 and May 3, 2024, the second mobility  of our project took place in Istanbul, Turkey.  

On the first day of the mobility, students and teachers were warmly welcomed at  Liv College, with a traditional reception reflecting our country's culture. Traditional foods were offered to promote cultural exchange, marking the start of the mobility program. The school's principal and the department coordinator gave speeches to greet the students and teachers. Ice-breaking activities were conducted to help students adapt to the environment and foster connections. Later, students presented the cultural backgrounds of their respective countries through presentations they had prepared earlier. A poster-making activity followed, with small groups consisting of students from each country in equal numbers. Each group illustrated their vision of "A Happy Life in A Healthy Environment" on their posters. The best poster was chosen, and the group members received small prizes. Class observations started and throughout the entire week visiting teachers had the opportunity to participate at job-shadowing activities every day. Afterwards, everyone went to Göztepe Park, where they observed different plant species and gathered information about them. They took notes while walking by the seaside, discussing how fresh air positively affects health. 

The second day included class observations and a visit to historic sites in Istanbul, emphasizing cultural heritage The cultural visit started with a stroll through Istanbul's historic Sultanahmet Square, where students and teachers explored iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern. This immersion into the city's rich history emphasized the importance of cultural heritage in fostering a sense of identity and community. By understanding the past, we can appreciate the need to preserve these sites for future generations, linking back to our theme of "A Healthy World for a Happy Life." Next, everybody visited the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, a collection of three museums showcasing artifacts from various civilizations that have called this region home. While touring the exhibits, participants were reminded of humanity's shared history and the importance of preserving our cultural legacy. The students engaged in discussions about how maintaining historical sites contributes to a healthy environment by promoting education and sustainable tourism. The day concluded with a sunset walk along the Bosphorus, where participants were encouraged to reflect on the day's experiences and discuss how cultural heritage and environmental sustainability are intertwined. This walk provided a moment of serenity and a reminder of the beauty that can be found in a well-preserved environment. The students left with a greater appreciation for the role they can play in building a healthier, happier world. 

Day three focused on classroom observations and discussions on environmental education. This was an opportunity for students and teachers to visit classrooms within the school, observing different teaching methods and discussing approaches to environmental education. In these sessions, they explored how schools can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices and educating the next generation about the importance of a healthy planet. Activities highlighted sustainable practices, creativity with waste materials, and the role of schools in promoting a healthy planet. Throughout the day, the focus remained on the interconnectedness of a healthy world and a happy life. By encouraging creativity with waste materials and exploring innovative educational approaches, participants left with a deeper understanding of their role in building a more sustainable future. The day's activities served as a reminder that every action counts in the journey toward a healthier, more sustainable planet. 

The fourth day of  program was all about understanding innovative solutions to environmental challenges, reflecting our theme of "A Healthy World for a Happy Life." The day began with a visit to the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Waste Power Plant, a state-of-the-art facility that converts waste into energy. The tour provided an eye-opening look at how waste management can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable environment. During the plant tour, participants learned about the various stages of waste processing, from sorting to combustion, and how these processes generate electricity and reduce landfill waste. The guides explained the technology behind waste-to-energy conversion and its impact on reducing the carbon footprint. This experience underscored the importance of recycling and responsible waste management in creating a healthy environment. Students and teachers left with a greater appreciation for the innovative ways cities are addressing environmental issues. Following the power plant visit, participants headed to İstinye University for a workshop and panel discussion led by a university professor. The discussion centered around the key questions of our project theme: What does a happy environment look like? The professor encouraged participants to share their visions of a happy environment, highlighting the common themes of clean air, green spaces, biodiversity, and community well-being. The discussion emphasized that a happy environment is one where people and nature coexist harmoniously. How does a clean environment affect our lives? The panel explored the various ways in which a clean environment contributes to our physical and mental health. From reducing respiratory diseases to improving mood and fostering a sense of community, a clean environment has profound benefits for individuals and society. What kind of work can be done for a clean environment? Participants brainstormed practical steps that individuals and communities can take to promote a clean environment, such as reducing plastic use, participating in community clean-up events, supporting renewable energy, and advocating for environmental policies. The professor shared examples of successful environmental initiatives and encouraged participants to become environmental stewards in their own communities. The workshop provided a platform for exchanging ideas and fostering collaboration, reinforcing the notion that everyone has a role to play in creating a sustainable world. To close the day, a ceremony  was held for the presentation of certificates, recognizing the contributions of students and teachers to the mobility program. Each participant received a certificate of completion, symbolizing their commitment to promoting a healthy and happy environment. The ceremony was a moment of celebration, reflecting the spirit of unity and cooperation that defined our program. It was a fitting end to a day focused on learning, innovation, and the shared goal of a healthier planet. 

On the last day ,students watched a documentary on plastic recycling. The documentary explored the global impact of plastic waste and highlighted innovative recycling techniques that are making a positive difference. The film featured stories of communities and individuals dedicated to reducing plastic pollution, reinforcing the importance of collective action.Following the documentary, students were divided into small groups for a brainstorming session. Each group was tasked with discussing the key points from the documentary and generating ideas for promoting plastic recycling in their own communities.The brainstorming session addressed topics such as reducing single-use plastics, creating awareness campaigns, and encouraging local businesses to support recycling initiatives. Participants proposed creative solutions like art installations made from recycled plastics, school recycling programs, and community clean-up events. A cultural evening was also organized in which the students presented a selection of healthy sustainable recipes from each country. The mobility concluded with a certificate ceremony for participants.

The third mobility of the project “A Happy Life in a Healthy Environment,” coordinated by “Mihai Eminescu” Secondary School in Vaslui, took place in Croatia, on the island of Brač, between September 23–27, 2024. The host was the Elementary School “Vladimir Nazor” in the town of Postira. Participants from the four partner schools from Romania, Turkey, Poland, and Croatia enjoyed a week full of educational and recreational activities aimed at developing both personal skills and ecological awareness. 

The first day began with the presentation of the participating schools, followed by an artistic program performed by students from the host school, “Vladimir Nazor,” named after the most famous Croatian poet. Afterwards, students took part in a cooking workshop dedicated to promoting healthy eating. Participants prepared healthy dishes using local and organic ingredients, including local olive oil. During this workshop, emphasis was placed on the importance of a balanced diet and the benefits of healthy eating on quality of life. The school’s chefs offered advice on how to cook in a healthy and tasty way. It was an activity that combined local cultural information with the values of a healthy lifestyle. 

The participating teachers had the opportunity to visit the “Sardina” factory near Postira. This visit provided valuable insight into the sustainable production process of fish products, from responsible fishing to packaging. Sardina is renowned for its eco-friendly fish processing methods, promoting the conservation of local marine resources. Teachers learned about best industrial practices and environmental protection measures applied in the food industry. 

On the second day, participants had the opportunity to attend classes organized by the host school, experiencing the local educational system firsthand. Teachers and students shared their teaching methods using interactive techniques and modern resources to stimulate learning. Participants also observed how educational values such as cooperation and respect for diversity are integrated into the curriculum. This experience was a valuable opportunity for exchanging best practices and pedagogical ideas, contributing to the professional development of teachers and improving teaching skills within the Erasmus project. Then, the guests explored the town of Postira using a map under the guidance of a local tour guide. This interactive activity encouraged orientation skills and independent exploration of the area. Using the map, participants identified points of interest such as the local port, St. John the Baptist Church, and the picturesque beaches. By discovering the local culture and the natural beauty of Postira, the students learned about the town’s history and traditions, while also developing teamwork and collaboration skills. 

On the third day, students and teachers had the chance to explore the island of Brač, one of the most picturesque islands in Croatia, through a study trip that combined nature, culture, history, and local traditions. The first stop was at Vidova Gora Reserve, the highest point on Brač Island, at an altitude of 778 meters. Vidova Gora is known for its biodiversity, providing a protected habitat for many plant and animal species. Teachers and students discussed the importance of protecting these natural areas, raising awareness of environmental conservation. The local guide provided information on the region’s flora and fauna, as well as the historical settlements on the island, linking them to the sustainability topics addressed in the project. In the afternoon, participants visited the Stone Sculpture School in Pučišća, an internationally renowned institution for preserving the traditional stone carving craft. The white stone from Brač Island is known for its quality and has even been used in famous buildings. During the visit, students watched live sculpture demonstrations and learned about this ancient craft, which is an essential part of the island’s cultural heritage. This activity highlighted the importance of preserving traditional trades in the modern era, contributing to cultural identity and the development of local communities. The study trip on Brač Island was a deeply educational and cultural experience for all Erasmus project participants. Each location offered unique learning opportunities—from exploring the biodiversity of Vidova Gora, to discovering the local history and culture in Bol, and appreciating traditional crafts in Pučišća. This trip not only enriched knowledge about the environment and the island’s history but also encouraged new perspectives on the protection of natural and cultural heritage. It also promoted the exchange of ideas and collaboration among participants, reinforcing common values of solidarity, respect for diversity, and commitment to sustainable development. 

On the fourth day, students and teachers visited the Brač Island Museum and the Olive Oil Museum in the village of Škrip, the oldest settlement on the island. At the Island Museum, they discovered the history of Brač from the Roman era to the present, exploring artifacts and local traditions. At the Olive Oil Museum, participants learned about traditional olive oil production methods, essential to the local economy for centuries. Guests had the opportunity to taste local extra virgin olive oil as well as jams made from the island’s orchard fruits. This visit offered valuable insight into the connection between cultural history and present-day agricultural practices. In the late afternoon, students practiced kayaking in teams—a very popular sport on the island—in the tourist port area of Postira. 

The last day of the mobility was dedicated to sports activities, an essential element for promoting a healthy lifestyle. In a beautiful natural setting, participants took part in various games and competitions meant to develop team spirit and encourage regular physical activity. Among the sports activities were football, handball, and rugby. These not only helped strengthen the bonds between participants but also emphasized the importance of sport for physical and mental health. A local rugby coach led the activities and spoke to the children about the benefits of regular physical exercise and its impact on longevity and quality of life. It was an opportunity for all to become aware of the importance of movement in daily life, even when integrated into simple or recreational activities. Afterwards, guests participated in a culturally rich local activity: an olive-picking contest. This took place in the orchard of “Vladimir Nazor” School, where participants learned about the importance of traditional and sustainable agriculture. In rural areas of Croatia, olive trees are a basic resource, and the olive harvesting process provided a unique experience. Olive picking was not only a manual activity but also an educational one, offering insight into the hard and dedicated work needed to support the local economy and produce high-quality food without harming local ecosystems. At the end of the Erasmus mobility in Postira, Croatia, a festive dinner was held, accompanied by traditional Croatian music, celebrating the local culture. In a friendly setting, participation certificates were awarded, marking the end of a memorable educational and cultural experience. The Erasmus mobility in Croatia, part of the “A Happy Life in a Healthy Environment” project, offered participants numerous benefits. Beyond the opportunity to explore a new country and interact with people from different cultures, the project contributed to developing ecological awareness and practical skills. Participants learned to appreciate the importance of an active lifestyle, healthy eating, and environmental protection. Furthermore, the mobility promoted international collaboration and the development of interpersonal skills, helping create strong bonds between teenagers from the four countries. The experiences lived during this week in Croatia marked an important step in building a healthier and more environmentally responsible future for the four school and local communities.