ETIC_Algarve wins European Innovation Award

ETIC_Algarve wins European Educational Innovation Award

ETIC_Algarve wins European educational innovation award with the European Language Label 2025, as part of the European Innovative Teaching Award, thanks to the impact of the TECC++US 2.0 – Technology from everyone to everyone and each one of us  project. This European recognition highlights the role of the Algarve as a hub for educational innovation, transforming language learning and promoting social inclusion through technology.

This recognition marks the first time that the Algarve school has taken on the coordination of a European Cooperation and Innovation Project, reinforcing the Algarve’s role as a creative and innovative hub in cross-border education.

What is TECC++US 2.0?

The project, developed between November 2021 and January 2024, resulted in:

• An innovative graphic identity, also developed by ETIC_Algarve.
• An inclusive and intuitive app for language learning;
• Digital and printable educational games;
• Support materials for teachers;
• Training plans certified by SIPE – Independent Union of Teachers and Educators;
• An innovative graphic identity, also developed by ETIC_Algarve

.

Based on the EPCL language and the use of pictograms and gamification, the application breaks down language barriers, promotes inclusion in educational and social contexts, and helps teachers create more accessible and universal classrooms.

Inclusive impact in 10 languages

Available in 10 languages—Portuguese, English, Spanish, Italian, Greek, Bulgarian, Polish, Slovenian, Romanian, and Ukrainian—TECC++US 2.0 stood out for the inclusion of Ukrainian, a decision of great relevance given the current context of war, reinforcing the mission to support displaced and vulnerable populations.

Although initially designed for people with special educational needs, the project has proven to be effective for all audiences, regardless of age or learning context.

An award that puts the Algarve on the innovation map

Among the four projects recognized in Portugal (three in the north and only one in the south), TECC++US 2.0 was the only one awarded in the Algarve, proving that educational innovation also originates in the south of the country.

The project was developed in collaboration with prestigious partner institutions from eight European countries:

• Bulgaria: Balgarska Agentsiya za Razvitie
• Greece: Center for Education and Innovation
• Italy: N.E.T. – Networking Education and Training
• Poland: Wyzsza Szkola Biznesu I Nauk O Zdrowiu
• Portugal: SIPE – Sindicato Independente de Professores e Educadores
• Romania: Scoala Gimnaziala “Constantin Gheorghita” Podari
• Slovenia: Drustvo za Razvijanje Prostovolinega Dela Novo Mesto
• Spain: IES Juan del Enzina

Algarve Pride

“It is with enormous pride that we see ETIC_Algarve honored with yet another European award. TECC++US 2.0 is proof that, from the Algarve, we are able to develop projects that have a real impact on people’s lives and on building a more inclusive and innovative Europe.”

— Nuno Ribeiro, Director of ETIC_Algarve

Continuity and next steps

TECC++US 2.0, developed under Erasmus+ and co-funded by the European Union, continued the initial TEC++US project (2018–2020), now with a strengthened ecosystem and more robust results for various audiences: children, young people, adults, and people with special needs.

ETIC_Algarve emphasizes that this work does not end here. Schools, associations, and entities interested in implementing pictographic language, the app, and teaching materials can contact the institution directly:

• info@eticalgarve.com
• 960 309 550

The TEC++US 2.0 app is now available for download on Android and iOS.
More information at: www.tec4everyone2us.eu