The main objective of the A-CLASE project was to foster inclusion, diversity,participation, and lifelong learning among vulnerable adults through the implementation of dialogic gatherings (DGs) rooted in classical literature and art. We aimed to create spaces for seniors, unemployed, and low-skilled adults could reflect on universal human themes, and develop essential soft skills. The project sought to empower older adults by training them as DG facilitators, equipping them with interpersonal, pedagogical, intercultural and digital competencies. This not only supported active ageing, but also enabled their meaningful engagement in community life. Another key objective was to promote the visibility and transferability of dialogic practices in adult education by developing a digital e-textbook, a practical guidebook, and an open-access e-library of tested resources. We also aimed to raise awareness of the method’s benefits among educators and institutions. Ultimately, we wanted to demonstrate that inclusive, non-formal education rooted in cultural dialogue can reduce social isolation, improve self-confidence, and strengthen the sense of belonging in both Slovenia and Türkiye.
The A-CLASE project was designed to reduce the exclusion of older adults, the long-term unemployed, and low-skilled individuals—groups often facing isolation, low self-esteem, and limited access to adult education. Drawing on previous experience with vulnerable groups, both partners recognised a lack of inclusive, low-threshold opportunities that could engage these adults meaningfully while also developing their soft skills, ICT literacy, and intercultural understanding. These competences—empathy, collaboration, communication, and emotional regulation—are essential for lifelong learning and active participation in society, yet remain underdeveloped among many socially excluded adults. The project responded by creating respectful, community-based learning environments through Dialogic Gatherings (DG), rooted in classical literature and art. Many seniors, eager to contribute and remain active, were trained as moderators, enabling them to support others, strengthen their own competences, and transfer knowledge to new groups. In this way, A-CLASE advanced EU priorities on inclusion, active ageing, and lifelong learning, while building sustainable pathways for personal growth, stronger communities, and lasting social cohesion.