TELI2 – NEWSLETTER 1
January 2018
Content
- Transnational Education in LEADER implementation (TELI2)
- TELI2 Summary Report
- A summary of TELI2 research on LAGs
- TELI2 Kick Off Meeting
- Second Transnational Meeting in Portugal
- Third TELI2 project meeting took place in Zagorje county, Croatia
Transnational Education in LEADER implementation (TELI2)

The project initially entails a research study of the delivery of the LEADER programme in the respective partner countries – seeking examples of the most efficient modes of implementation; and the transference of this knowledge to identified stakeholders through a special purpose award (Certificate in LEADER Programme Management – Level 8). Limerick Institute of Technology accredits this course.
The key objectives of the project include:
- Carrying out research on the delivery of LEADER in member states and training needs of LEADER staff and Board members.
- Delivering a best practice-based training course pertaining to the implementation of the LEADER programme to LDC / LAG management.
- Promoting shared learning between countries that have established LEADER programmes and those that are relative newcomers to delivery.
- Delivering an accredited programme through a blended learning model with the utilisation of on-line learning and learning workshops. The programme will also include work-based learning by participants and will allow for the Recognition of
- Up-skilling of LEADER delivery organisations through life-long learning;
- Enabling LEADER staff mobility through their participation in a transnational project and future collaboration and networking in rural development initiatives.

Students of the TELI2 course in Ireland, October 2017
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TELI2-1343600152427341/
Website: http://teli2.eu/
For further information, please contact Dr. Shane O’Sullivan, Limerick Institute of Technology (shane.osullivan@lit.ie) or +353 (0)504 28476
TELI2 Summary Report
The TELI2 Summary report has informed the structure and indicative content for the accredited course (special purpose award Certificate in LEDAER Programme Management) designed as part of this ERASMUS+ KA2 project. Key topics contained within the report include:- positive features associated with the LEADER programme.
- challenges associated with the implementation of the LEDAER programme.
- educational and training requirements of LAG / LDC staff.
- country specific issues.
Communication and Facilitation Strategies for LEADER
The aim of this module is to provide the learner with a practitioner level understanding of the theories and application of communication strategies, methodologies and tools in contemporary LAGS and LDCs.LEADER Approach and Neo-Endogenous Rural Development
The aim of this module is to provide learners with an introduction to the key concepts and theories of neo-endogenous development of rural areas and to develop an understanding of the important role of local community´s activation. A specific emphasis will be placed on understanding the key characteristics of the LEADER approach and its application within different spatial scales (EU, national, regional /local).LEADER Programme Management and Organisational Skills
The aim of this module is to enable learners to provide appropriate supports and guidance to businesses and communities who wish to access funding under the LEADER programme. A strong emphasis will be placed on developing and enhancing project management; teamwork and collaboration; and technical skillsets required for being a LEADER project officer / manager within a LAG, LDC or FLAG. The learners will acquire adequate knowledge on the programme management cycle for the LEADER and the accompanying operational rules and regulations.To download the TELI2 Summary Report and course overview please click here.
A summary of TELI2 research on LAGs

In total, 169 LAGs/LDCs, completed the questionnaire: in Croatia (27), Ireland (17), Poland (49), Portugal (12), Romania (41) and Slovenia (23). There are significant spatial variations with respect to the LDCs/LAGs who participated in the questionnaire survey. These variations are evident with respect to year of establishment; average population size of LAG/LDC; number of LEADER projects supported; and primary focus of projects in LEADER Programmes. The LAG/LDC territory appears to be larger in both Ireland and Portugal, countries which have been participating in the LEADER programme for the longest period of time.
Positive features
These were identified as related to job creation, regional development, and promotion of the region.Challenges faced in the delivery of the LEADER programme
Bureaucracy; lack of precise operating procedures; and lack of pre-financing were identified as main challenges.
The questionnaire, completed by managers of LAGs/LDCs sought information on the types of skill sets which employees require with respect to the implementation of the LEADER programme. As expected, there was some deviation between the different TELI2 partner countries. A significant knowledge and capacity gap was identified, especially in relation to national agencies and government departments co-ordination with LAGs and LDCs. In some instances, employees in LAGs/LDCs also require additional training and re-skilling in a number of topics. These include: project/programme management, publicity, procurement, training, financial management, auditing, lobbing, creative thinking, administration, ICT, transfer of best practices, and project evaluation. There is also a need to enhance skillsets/ competencies associated with the delivery of the LEADER programme. These include concepts of neo-endogenous development approach and LEADER approach, empowerment of local communities, key components of LEADER approach, and governance structures of LAGs throughout Europe. The evidence gathered through the questionnaires informed the structure and indicative content for the accredited TELI2 course.
Respondents to the questionnaire also outlined requirement need for training courses to incorporate a blended learning model insofar as learners acquire information through on-line lectures/discussion fora; whilst also having the opportunity to engage in a number of intensive workshops which incorporate site visits to a wide array of LEADER projects. The incorporation of a transnational element to site visits is very important insofar as prospective learners can replicate best practices within their own respective LAG/LDC. The transference of this knowledge to identified stakeholders will be provided through a high quality accredited course by Limerick Institute of Technology as special purpose award “Certificate in LEADER Programme Management”.
TELI2 Kick Off Meeting

TELI2 kick-off meeting in Thurles, Ireland
Second Transnational Meeting in Portugal

TELI2 partner meeting in Évora, Portugal
Third TELI2 project meeting took place in Zagorje county, Croatia

TELI2 partner meeting in Stubičke Toplice, Croatia
Shane O’Sullivan from LIT informed the group that the feedback report from the Irish National Agency about the delivery of TELI2 was positive, and noted that the TELI2 learning programme was granted approval for accreditation.
Toni McCaul from SECAD noted how pleased she was with students’ very postive feedback from the Cork based workshop. Portuguese – Fatima (ADRIMAG) and Polish – Krzysztof (D. RABY) partners provided a preview into the upcoming training workshops in Portugal and Poland respectively. Project managers also spoke about attendance of the partners at relevant conferences in the VET and Local Development fields, dissemination of project through ENRD website, dissemination through the websites and newsletters of the National Rural Network in each country, participation in EU LEADER events and similar.