Digital MERIT is a project co-funded by the European Union under the Digital Europe Programme. It brings together universities from four countries, industrial partners, research centres, technology transfer organizations, and digital innovation hubs with the goal of developing a strong, inclusive, and sustainable educational ecosystem with a four-year program.
The project focuses on creating a knowledge base to address society’s needs in the field of advanced digital skills. One of its key objectives is to reskill non-ICT specialists through conversion courses and provide mobility opportunities for teachers and learners across the six participating countries: Spain, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Italy, and Romania. By doing so, MERIT aims to prepare students and graduates for the job market through industry-relevant courses, hackathons, and employability training.
A special focus is on countries with low scores on the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), such as Romania. The program will support the development of ICT specialists and provide students with tools like e-learning resources and blended learning approaches to address real-world challenges. By integrating research and practical solutions, students will gain hands-on experience in labs, companies, and public organizations.
A joint master’s program with industry collaboration
MERIT includes 5 different Master’s programs offered by four leading European universities: Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC), Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VILNIUS TECH), Riga Technical University (RTU), and Tallinn University of technology (TalTech). Whose programs collaborate with each other and are supported by partners including Asoindel, Exacaster, Fondatione Bruno Kessler (FBK), Sunrise Valley Science and Technology Park (SSMTP), UPC Technology Center (CIT-UPC), and the Digital Innovation Zone (DIZNE).
Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with these and other industry leaders on real-world challenges, ensuring their education is aligned with market needs. This partnership allows students to test their solutions in real environment and gain valuable industry experience. While industry, offering challenges for student project will gain from collaboration with students and their research supervisors.
Inclusive and lifelong learning
One of MERIT’s core missions is promoting inclusivity and gender equality in STEM careers. The program will offer mentoring, networking opportunities, and hands-on experience in various sectors. A key focus will be on upskilling and reskilling professionals through short-term courses and lifelong learning initiatives, ensuring individuals stay competitive in the evolving digital landscape.
By fostering advanced digital skills and emphasizing inclusivity, MERIT aims to help shape Europe’s digital future, equipping students with the knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in a rapidly transforming world.
Source: European Digital Skills & Jobs Platform
