On 6 April at 14:00, the Europe Direct Tartu Centre will open at the University of Tartu Library, bringing European Union topics and opportunities closer to the people of Tartu and Tartu County.
Europe Direct Tartu is located on the second floor of the library and is open to everyone interested. “At the centre, visitors can gain a comprehensive overview of how the European Union works, both on-site and through online resources,” said Elena Sipria-Mironov, project manager of Europe Direct Tartu Centre. “It is also a place to explore various programmes and initiatives that we hope will inspire cooperation.” In addition to providing information, the centre offers guidance on where to find answers to EU-related questions and serves as a venue for meetings and discussions. Events and exhibitions organised at the centre will help people better understand developments in Europe and connect them to the local context.
The new information centre operates in cooperation with the University of Tartu, municipal institutions, educational and research organisations, cultural institutions, and non-governmental organisations. The centre is also open to collaboration with other partners and is ready to contribute to organising thematic events and exhibitions, developing and teaching media literacy, and introducing European Union programmes. Engaging local communities is equally important, encouraging people to think along and take part in discussions about the future of Europe.
“Europe Direct centres in cities are a great support in communicating EU-related topics, as they understand local contexts best and know how to reach local audiences effectively,” said Ave Schank-Lukas, Head of the European Commission Representation in Estonia. “I am very pleased that we have gained a strong cooperation partner in Tartu, and I hope that the people of Tartu County will actively make use of this opportunity.”
The Europe Direct network is managed by the European Commission and aims to raise awareness about the European Union. Similar centres operate across Europe, including in several Estonian cities.
At the opening event, speeches will be delivered by Ave Schank-Lukas and representatives of the City of Tartu and the University of Tartu. In addition, a panel discussion with Europe Direct centres from Southern Estonia will take place, moderated by Kalmar Kurs, Advisor at the Education and Youth Board and member of Team Europe.
