The first training, with 27 people (youth workers/multipliers – of which 8 country coordinators and 2 experts), took place in Kandy, Sri Lanka from October 20 to 29, 2017.
 
The main aim of the course was to develop competencies in the field of intercultural education. Participants, guided by project trainers, went through a process mainly characterized by the experiential learning principles, with strong emphasis on the practical components, with adequate time dedicated to reflection, feedback, self-assessment, in order to reach and assimilate the learning points that will be adopted and used in their future work.
 
The topics and issues addressed were related with culture, intercultural sensitivity, identity, differences, attitudes, stereotypes, prejudices, discrimination and exclusion as well as non-formal education methodology to address these issues. All the activities were held with a final idea to lead to mutual understanding considering the diversity of cultural and geographical realities involved – European, African, Asian and Latin American – and with the aim of increasing the level of tolerance in our global community.
 
The methodology applied for this training comes from non-formal education areas and includes various working methods like: case studies, simulations, interactive presentations, interactive exercises, brainstorming, debates, living library, facilitated and guided discussions, shared experiences, movies, fish bowl, role plays, teambuilding exercises, games that stimulate lateral thinking and creativity, experiential learning, working groups, moments dedicated to reflection and self-reflection, evaluation and self-evaluation, techniques to stimulate personal creativity and hidden potential.
 
The second part of the course was dedicated to the development of practical skills in facilitation of non-formal education sessions. In this stage participants were divided in groups and prepared sessions related to intercultural learning and intercultural dialogue. In this way the participants had the possibility to practice the facilitator role and techniques they will have to use at the end of the training in their own local activities. The participants’ allocated particular attention to the debriefing part, as it is one of the most important competence in this field.
 
This part of the program was also important for improving abilities, get and offer constructive feedback and prepare the multipliers for the practice phase, which will be carried out in their own country.