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<https://stad.gent/en/lod/news?page=12><http://www.w3.org/ns/hydra/core#member><https://stad.gent/id/news/825448> .
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<http://schema.org/description> "Ghent, named 2024 European Youth Capital, embraces vibrant youth culture and amplifies young voices." ;
<http://schema.org/identifier> 825448 ;
<http://schema.org/image><https://stad.gent/sites/default/files/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg> ;
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<http://schema.org/keywords> "success story" ;
<http://schema.org/url><https://stad.gent/en/invest-ghent/news-events/technology-capital-fuelled-young-disruptors> ;
<http://schema.org/dateModified> "2024-05-22T08:33:07+00:00"^^<xsd:dateTime> ;
<http://schema.org/datePublished> "2024-05-22T18:00:00+00:00"^^<xsd:dateTime> ;
<http://schema.org/headline> "Technology Capital fuelled by young disruptors" ;
<http://schema.org/articleBody> " <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--text paragraph--view-mode--full\">\n \n\n\n <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Ghent, a city pulsating with youthful energy, is home to over 84,000 students who embark on their educational journey annually. This vibrant city, brimming with enthusiasm and budding talent, reflects today's youth. This year, Ghent has been bestowed with a significant honour: it has been named the \u2018European Youth Capital\u2019. This recognition not only celebrates the city's vibrant youth culture but also highlights its commitment to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.</span></p><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">In light of this honour, we interviewed <strong>C\u00E9line De Coninck</strong>, the project leader for EYC, and <strong>Pieter Nachtergaele</strong>, the EU Bioeconomy Youth Ambassador for the European Commission. Surprisingly, there are several connections between this socio-cultural project and the bioeconomy.</span></p>\n \n </div>\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--table-of-contents paragraph--view-mode--full\">\n \n\n </div>\n\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--container paragraph--view-mode--full w10-o1\">\n \n \n\n<ul class=\"grid-2\">\n <li> <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default\">\n <div class=\"image-gallery--wrapper single\">\n \n\n\n\n <div class=\"image-gallery js-lightbox\">\n <a\n href=\"https://stad.gent/sites/default/files/styles/gallery_full/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=Co9_jn7z\"\n class=\"gallery-link\"\n aria-describedby=\"image-gallery__open-gallery\"\n >\n \n <figure>\n \n\n\n <picture>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_l/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=qKDTA4TA 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_l_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=LQE05rXP 2x\" media=\"(min-width: 1680px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"655\" height=\"491\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_l/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=qKDTA4TA 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_l_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=LQE05rXP 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 960px) and (max-width: 1679.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"655\" height=\"491\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=WP-Zgj7E 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=awml_fZ4 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 959.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"920\" height=\"690\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xl/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=NO5crxZp 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_xl_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=aRY-VJgD 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 576px) and (max-width: 767.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"727\" height=\"545\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_m/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=FhMahdgd 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_m_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=4eZv3165 2x\" media=\"all and (max-width: 575.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"575\" height=\"431\"/>\n <img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1840\" height=\"1380\" src=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_656d9c8f_0.jpg?itok=awml_fZ4\" alt=\"Pieter en C\u00E9line 2\" />\n\n </picture>\n\n\n \n \n </figure>\n</a>\n\n \n </div>\n \n </div>\n\n </div>\n</li>\n <li>\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n<dl class=\"accordion\">\n <div property=\"mainEntity\" typeof=\"Question\">\n <dt class=\"faqfield-question\" property=\"name\">\n <h3>\n <button class=\"accordion--button\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion--multiple--content--faqitem--2--1\">\n Pieter Nachtergaele\n </button>\n </h3>\n </dt>\n <dd class=\"faqfield-answer\" property=\"acceptedAnswer\" typeof=\"Answer\">\n <div class=\"accordion--content\" id=\"accordion--multiple--content--faqitem--2--1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden=\"hidden\" property=\"text\">\n <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Pieter Nachtergaele conducts research at Ghent University and teaches about sustainable technology there. Additionally, he is an EU Bioeconomy Youth Ambassador for the European Commission. Along with 14 other ambassadors, he drafted a </span><a href=\"https://youth.europa.eu/d8/sites/default/files/inline-files/Bioeconomy%20youth%20vision_0.pdf\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\">youth vision on the bioeconomy</span></a><span lang=\"EN-GB\">, which was communicated in April during the Festival Bioeconomy Changemakers. This vision highlights five key messages that (local, national, and European) governments can work with. There\u2019s a growing shift towards more structured involvement of young people and an interdisciplinary approach in education to address future challenges better. Additionally, a clear goal is to pursue a new 'post-growth' model to promote sustainable growth while focusing on responsible use of resources in biomass and agriculture. Lastly, a holistic approach is essential for systemic ecology, considering all stakeholders and the diversity of benefits and drawbacks. Next to this document, they also raised awareness among the broader public about bioeconomy, for example, through a </span><a href=\"https://www.biobeo.eu/bioeconomy-podcast/\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\">podcast</span></a><span lang=\"EN-GB\">.</span></p>\n </div>\n </dd>\n </div>\n <div property=\"mainEntity\" typeof=\"Question\">\n <dt class=\"faqfield-question\" property=\"name\">\n <h3>\n <button class=\"accordion--button\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion--multiple--content--faqitem--2--2\">\n C\u00E9line De Coninck\n </button>\n </h3>\n </dt>\n <dd class=\"faqfield-answer\" property=\"acceptedAnswer\" typeof=\"Answer\">\n <div class=\"accordion--content\" id=\"accordion--multiple--content--faqitem--2--2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden=\"hidden\" property=\"text\">\n <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">C\u00E9line De Coninck went through an extensive trajectory within youth work, from the youth council to volunteer, then coordinator, to eventually becoming the project leader at Ghent, </span><a href=\"https://www.ghenteyc.eu/nl/\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\">European Youth Capital</span></a><span lang=\"EN-GB\">. This title is awarded annually by the European Youth Forum in collaboration with the European Commission. This year, the program focuses on three priorities: \u2018engage, empower and care\u2019. Translated freely, they work on voluntary engagement, physical and mental space given to young people, mental health, diversity, and sustainability. It's quite a handful because youth involvement spans across all policy domains. The emphasis is on actions, projects, and ideas that will persist beyond 2024. Through social experiments, open calls, and projects, they are looking at around 250 activities this year.</span></p>\n </div>\n </dd>\n </div>\n </dl>\n\n \n</li>\n </ul>\n\n </div>\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--text paragraph--view-mode--full\">\n \n\n\n <h2><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Giving youth a seat at the table</span></h2><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">A while back, the 15 ambassadors presented their youth vision on the economy at the 'Festival Bioeconomy Changemakers'. This document accentuates five points of improvement. \"The main event took place in Brussels,\" Pieter explains, \"with around thirty satellite events throughout Europe. There, we presented our five key messages. We recently heard that a new European strategy will be developed specifically for the bioeconomy, and our vision will be used as a guide. Needless to say, we\u2019re delighted that we\u2019ve delivered something that policymakers will consider.\"</span></p><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">One of these messages is that young people should be more actively involved in decision-making processes. \"There are already many initiatives where youth participation is important. However, too often, their contribution remains symbolic, and they cannot join the table when the real decisions are made in the afternoon. And that's a shame. When the actual decisions are made, there is no longer structured input possible for the youth.\"</span></p>\n \n </div>\n\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--container paragraph--view-mode--full w10-o1\">\n \n \n\n<ul class=\"grid-2\">\n <li> <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default\">\n <div class=\"image-gallery--wrapper single\">\n \n\n\n\n <div class=\"image-gallery js-lightbox\">\n <a\n href=\"https://stad.gent/sites/default/files/styles/gallery_full/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=V1dB-FJE\"\n class=\"gallery-link\"\n aria-describedby=\"image-gallery__open-gallery\"\n aria-label=\"\u00A9 European Commission 2024\"\n >\n \n <figure>\n \n\n\n <picture>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_l/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=PfuISRgv 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_l_x2/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=gUQZVhe6 2x\" media=\"(min-width: 1680px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"655\" height=\"436\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_l/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=PfuISRgv 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_l_x2/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=gUQZVhe6 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 960px) and (max-width: 1679.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"655\" height=\"436\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=DujBQJKz 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl_x2/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=G7pPf1eI 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 959.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"920\" height=\"612\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xl/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=8i4gr8ZE 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_xl_x2/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=SDB_rvVZ 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 576px) and (max-width: 767.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"727\" height=\"484\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_m/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=GlmxvvIb 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_m_x2/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=-BKlwYG2 2x\" media=\"all and (max-width: 575.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"575\" height=\"383\"/>\n <img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1815\" height=\"1208\" src=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl_x2/public/media/images/38ec97b6-5a64-4b9d-b8e9-bb033859dfcd.jpg?itok=G7pPf1eI\" alt=\"Pieter Nachtergaele European Commission\" />\n\n </picture>\n\n\n \n \n <figcaption>\u00A9 European Commission 2024</figcaption>\n\n </figure>\n</a>\n\n \n </div>\n \n </div>\n\n </div>\n</li>\n <li>\n\n \n<div class=\"quote-wrapper\">\n <div class=\"quote\">\n <blockquote>\n <div class=\"content\">\n <p>\n We recently heard that a new European strategy will be developed specifically for the bioeconomy, and our vision will be used as a guide. Needless to say, we\u2019re delighted that we\u2019ve delivered something that policymakers will actually consider.\n </p>\n </div>\n <footer>\n Pieter Nachtergaele\n </footer>\n </blockquote>\n </div>\n</div>\n</li>\n </ul>\n\n </div>\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--text paragraph--view-mode--full\">\n \n\n\n <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">\"Very relatable,\" adds C\u00E9line. \"I've noticed that throughout my career. That's why we wanted to do things very differently with EYC. We were all getting frustrated with this; it would be extremely hypocritical not to give young people a say now. In our case, we\u2019ve put the young people in charge. (</span><em><span lang=\"EN-GB\">laughs</span></em><span lang=\"EN-GB\">) We have a steering group of young people between 18 and 30, and I\u2019m accountable to them. I constantly check if what we\u2019re doing aligns with the vision and goals we\u2019ve set. Giving them that responsibility, I see an incredible energy spreading among them. They can develop their projects, and they love that.\"</span></p><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Throughout the year, young people can engage in a variety of activities. Recently, there was the 'Great Debate'. \"There, we provided young people with the means to inform themselves accurately and engage in constructive debates with each other,\" says C\u00E9line. \"Because we\u2019re one of the four countries where sixteen-year-olds can vote in the European elections. That\u2019s a huge privilege. Ultimately, they must make an important decision and be better prepared and informed. We gathered a remarkable 750 young people for that process, which was a great achievement.\"</span></p>\n \n </div>\n\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--container paragraph--view-mode--full w10-o1\">\n \n \n\n<ul class=\"grid-2\">\n <li>\n\n \n<div class=\"quote-wrapper\">\n <div class=\"quote\">\n <blockquote>\n <div class=\"content\">\n <p>\n We\u2019re one of the four countries where sixteen-year-olds can vote in the European elections. That\u2019s a huge privilege! Ultimately, they must make an important decision and be better prepared and informed.\n </p>\n </div>\n <footer>\n C\u00E9line De Coninck\n </footer>\n </blockquote>\n </div>\n</div>\n</li>\n <li> <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default\">\n <div class=\"image-gallery--wrapper single\">\n \n\n\n\n <div class=\"image-gallery js-lightbox\">\n <a\n href=\"https://stad.gent/sites/default/files/styles/gallery_full/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=MrxnzLg0\"\n class=\"gallery-link\"\n aria-describedby=\"image-gallery__open-gallery\"\n aria-label=\"\u00A9 Michiel Devijver\"\n >\n \n <figure>\n \n\n\n <picture>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_l/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=o3EpkyiI 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_l_x2/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=jUQC-rpk 2x\" media=\"(min-width: 1680px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"655\" height=\"437\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_l/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=o3EpkyiI 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_l_x2/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=jUQC-rpk 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 960px) and (max-width: 1679.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"655\" height=\"437\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=RRK4eKPk 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl_x2/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=rTn_rrLX 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 959.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"920\" height=\"614\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xl/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=vkRFWmKw 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_xl_x2/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=HMQTVku- 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 576px) and (max-width: 767.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"727\" height=\"485\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_m/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=UjH-ESHk 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_m_x2/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=6AMaOR98 2x\" media=\"all and (max-width: 575.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"575\" height=\"384\"/>\n <img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1840\" height=\"1227\" src=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl_x2/public/media/images/IMGL0856_druk%20%28c%29%20Michiel%20Devijver.jpg?itok=rTn_rrLX\" alt=\"Grote Debat\" />\n\n </picture>\n\n\n \n \n <figcaption>\u00A9 Michiel Devijver</figcaption>\n\n </figure>\n</a>\n\n \n </div>\n \n </div>\n\n </div>\n</li>\n </ul>\n\n </div>\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--text paragraph--view-mode--full\">\n \n\n\n <h2><span lang=\"EN-GB\">It's all about giving young people the tools to make their mark</span></h2><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">There are already plenty of initiatives where young people are involved. But how can we further motivate them to make their mark on the future? For Pieter, that is quite clear: it also involves broader dissemination of those initiatives. \"Bioeconomy is such a comprehensive theme. It's about the use of bio-based resources in the economy. These resources have to come from somewhere. So you also have to look at farmers and forestry, for example. No one from these sectors had applied for the ambassadorship. Such initiatives should be communicated more broadly.\"</span></p><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">C\u00E9line goes back to the clich\u00E9 often mentioned: 'for and by young people'. \"But in reality, that is the essence. 'For' requires a mindset that reduces barriers. And 'by' can be interpreted quite literally. Dare to involve those young people in decision-making and provide them with funds to develop an idea further. However, this requires a different approach to how events are set up. For us, it\u2019s done with a lot of flexibility. If some young people want to join with a new idea two months before the event? That is not a problem; we see that as a great addition. Everything must be set in stone in certain organisations and executed letter by letter. However, that element of surprise and wonder is equally beautiful.\"</span></p>\n \n </div>\n\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--container paragraph--view-mode--full w10-o1\">\n \n \n\n<ul class=\"grid-2\">\n <li> <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default\">\n <div class=\"image-gallery--wrapper single\">\n \n\n\n\n <div class=\"image-gallery js-lightbox\">\n <a\n href=\"https://stad.gent/sites/default/files/styles/gallery_full/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=5DvDE4ZB\"\n class=\"gallery-link\"\n aria-describedby=\"image-gallery__open-gallery\"\n >\n \n <figure>\n \n\n\n <picture>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_l/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=bZo0TzEq 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_l_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=u_l3IQrz 2x\" media=\"(min-width: 1680px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"655\" height=\"873\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_l/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=bZo0TzEq 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_l_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=u_l3IQrz 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 960px) and (max-width: 1679.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"655\" height=\"873\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=XOrJMloz 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=oC4MHEqm 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 959.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"920\" height=\"1227\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xl/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=8odmgeNa 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_xl_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=VyTDCt-3 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 576px) and (max-width: 767.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"727\" height=\"969\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_m/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=5jwPl1qB 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_m_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=KfNbQoqa 2x\" media=\"all and (max-width: 575.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"575\" height=\"767\"/>\n <img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1536\" height=\"2048\" src=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_7b772074.jpg?itok=oC4MHEqm\" alt=\"C\u00E9line de Coninck\" />\n\n </picture>\n\n\n \n \n </figure>\n</a>\n\n \n </div>\n \n </div>\n\n </div>\n</li>\n <li>\n\n \n<div class=\"quote-wrapper\">\n <div class=\"quote\">\n <blockquote>\n <div class=\"content\">\n <p>\n Dare to involve those young people in decision-making and provide them with funds to develop an idea further.\n </p>\n </div>\n <footer>\n C\u00E9line De Coninck\n </footer>\n </blockquote>\n </div>\n</div>\n</li>\n </ul>\n\n </div>\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--text paragraph--view-mode--full\">\n \n\n\n <h2><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Fostering talent from the streets in Ghent to the European reagion</span></h2><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">\"In regions like ours, we can truly be thankful that young people want to stay here,\" says C\u00E9line. \"Because there are regions where young people leave much more quickly, just look at cities like Lublin and Tirana. Young people study there and then move westward. About 20% of 18-year-olds leave there annually, a tremendously high figure. Often, these cities also lag in innovation because they lack the new ideas from young people.\"</span></p><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">\"We\u2019re definitely in a privileged position,\" Pieter admits. \"We have a lot of students thanks to our higher education institutions, and they often stick around because it's such a pleasant city with a great vibe. When I look at my 'sector', I see that Ghent is really well known as the 'Biotech Valley'. So, for me, this is truly the region par excellence in Europe.\"</span></p><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Attracting and retaining talent is undoubtedly one of the challenges within the local economy. However, the responsibility does not solely lie with the education sector. \"Because it's not just there that you can influence young people,\" says C\u00E9line. \"I come from community work where we had STEM afternoons on the streets. Very accessible! (</span><em><span lang=\"EN-GB\">laughs</span></em><span lang=\"EN-GB\">) There, we cut vinyl, for example, to make motorcycle stickers. Of course, you need to find a way into their world. Such initiatives should be more prevalent. And yet, that legacy sometimes takes years before something like that catches on or is noticeable in a whole generation. Companies could also be involved in such efforts.\"</span></p><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">\"Steps can also be taken within education,\" says Pieter. \"I notice that there is not enough systemic thinking there. Bioeconomy, for example, goes far beyond pipettes and labs. We need talent not only to work with technology but also in the primary sector. We need to make the job of a farmer appealing again because we will always need them. Apart from farmers and laboratory technicians, we also need other profiles, such as designers. These bio-based products need to be designed with attention to aspects like circularity. We tend to overthink about one step in the life cycle, whereas we should be more holistic in our thinking and involve more people in the narrative of the bioeconomy.\"</span></p>\n \n </div>\n\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--container paragraph--view-mode--full w10-o1\">\n \n \n\n<ul class=\"grid-2\">\n <li> <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--image paragraph--view-mode--default\">\n <div class=\"image-gallery--wrapper single\">\n \n\n\n\n <div class=\"image-gallery js-lightbox\">\n <a\n href=\"https://stad.gent/sites/default/files/styles/gallery_full/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=rEVW-GJ9\"\n class=\"gallery-link\"\n aria-describedby=\"image-gallery__open-gallery\"\n >\n \n <figure>\n \n\n\n <picture>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_l/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=thzO7V5h 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_l_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=63Xg-m5Y 2x\" media=\"(min-width: 1680px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"655\" height=\"873\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_l/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=thzO7V5h 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_l_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=63Xg-m5Y 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 960px) and (max-width: 1679.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"655\" height=\"873\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=HK00Dfet 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=A1AQRXVS 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 959.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"920\" height=\"1227\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xl/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=neb8-Il2 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_xl_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=fzyOEdp5 2x\" media=\"all and (min-width: 576px) and (max-width: 767.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"727\" height=\"969\"/>\n <source srcset=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_m/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=wLVuzpUM 1x, /sites/default/files/styles/wide_m_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=t4nigblR 2x\" media=\"all and (max-width: 575.9px)\" type=\"image/jpeg\" width=\"575\" height=\"767\"/>\n <img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1536\" height=\"2048\" src=\"/sites/default/files/styles/wide_xxl_x2/public/media/images/Afbeelding%20van%20WhatsApp%20op%202024-05-21%20om%2014.39.00_34372a8d.jpg?itok=A1AQRXVS\" alt=\"Pieter Nachtergaele en C\u00E9line De Coninck\" />\n\n </picture>\n\n\n \n \n </figure>\n</a>\n\n \n </div>\n \n </div>\n\n </div>\n</li>\n <li>\n\n \n<div class=\"quote-wrapper\">\n <div class=\"quote\">\n <blockquote>\n <div class=\"content\">\n <p>\n I notice that there is not enough systemic thinking there (in education). Bioeconomy, for example, goes far beyond pipettes and labs. We need talent not only to work with technology but also in the primary sector. We need to make the job of a farmer appealing again because we will always need them.\n </p>\n </div>\n <footer>\n Pieter Nachtergaele\n </footer>\n </blockquote>\n </div>\n</div>\n</li>\n </ul>\n\n </div>\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--text paragraph--view-mode--full\">\n \n\n\n <p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">Pieter's task as ambassador is almost completed. \"I found the past two years particularly valuable. Today, I have a much better understanding of how the European Commission operates and what the possibilities are. I will continue to work towards breaking down the silos between research and policy.\"</span></p><p><span lang=\"EN-GB\">C\u00E9line still has a few boxes to tick. \"By the end of the year, we aim to collect 150 stories. Stories from young people about critical citizenship, mental well-being, poverty, city life, etc. In short, stories that you wouldn't typically hear. In the meantime, there are plenty of fun activities on the agenda. Care to join us?\"</span></p>\n \n </div>\n\n <div class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--call-to-action paragraph--view-mode--full cta-block image-none link\">\n \n <div class=\"cta-block__content\">\n <div class=\"feature-block secondary\">\n <h2>Discover what we can do for you</h2>\n\n \n\n <p>We offer a wide range of services and support networks to assist with business development. We're ready to help you grow in Ghent.</p>\n \n \n <ul class=\"links\">\n <li>\n <a href=\"https://stad.gent/en/invest-ghent/contact\" class=\"button button-secondary\">Contact us</a>\n \n </li>\n <li>\n <a href=\"https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/investinghent/\" class=\"standalone-link\">Follow us on LinkedIn</a>\n \n </li>\n </ul>\n </div>\n </div>\n </div>\n" ;
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