Description
The project aims at the creation of a monitoring and support system for the dissemination of knowledge regarding digital fabrication of a social nature; and the dissemination of emerging social technologies in order to support the use of social systems by the citizens, a marketing approach to citizenship and individual empowerment. The promoter’s mission is to foster research, innovation and technological training, mainly through the training of youth and adults working in areas of technical and technological expertise. The activities to be carried out include the creation of a technological platform for social innovation; the creation of a training model for social production; establishment of a forum of experts on social manufacture; and the establishment of a system of certification in social manufacture.
Summary of project results
Digital fabrication processes will impact peoples’ lives in an increasing way, and will become an important feature to be considered in decision–making processes. Because it is a relative novelty, it is important to address this issue through awareness-raising and promotion of active citizenship in this regard – and this was the aim of the project. Multiple dialogue sessions with local government officials, covering much of central Portugal, addressed the potential impact of digital fabrication in the economy and in social intervention, and the decisive role of local government in fostering education and competitiveness was highlighted. Five dialogue sessions targeting private companies, social economy organizations and local government explored these new processes’ role in placing citizens and its NGOs in the centre of the social production system and of the creation of local and national public policies.
Summary of bilateral results