Poster Short Abstract

ENHANCE empowers higher education to integrate citizen science and future-oriented learning. By training researchers, piloting Futures Workshops, and engaging diverse citizens, the project fosters inclusive participation, supports SDGs, and co-creates sustainable futures.

Poster Abstract

The ENHANCE project (Erasmus+ Cooperation Partnerships, 2023–2026) addresses the urgent need to empower researchers and citizens to co-create sustainable futures in the context of climate change and environmental challenges. Citizens often feel disconnected from decision-making, while researchers lack the training to facilitate authentic citizen participation. ENHANCE responds by building researcher competencies through participatory methods, especially the Futures Workshop approach, combined with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Over 36 months, ENHANCE is training researchers from six European universities, establishing a Futures Citizen Science Network, and piloting 12 Futures Workshops across partner countries with the engagement of 180 citizens, including minority and underrepresented groups. Project outputs include a methodological guidebook, an online interactive platform, open training resources, and a European conference to disseminate results.

By bridging citizen science and higher education, ENHANCE contributes to the European Green Deal and UNESCO’s Futures of Education initiative, while promoting civic engagement, inclusion, and democratic participation. The poster will showcase the project design, pilot experiences, and early lessons, inviting dialogue with the citizen science community on how higher education can strengthen participatory approaches for transformative change.