The Austrian National Eco-Digithon brought together seven dynamic VET teams from different educational levels and fields, united by a single mission: to develop innovative digital solutions for a more sustainable future. Representing HTL BULME, FH Joanneum Kapfenberg (Institute for Energy, Transport, and Environmental Management), and Montanuniversität Leoben, the participants showcased the power of collaboration across technical high school, applied sciences, and university education.
Over the course of the event, the teams worked intensively on a project tackling the topic of renewable energy. The challenge was framed around Challenge-Based Learning Scenarios (CBLS) and linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
The ENNEPlus project played a vital role in preparing and empowering these teams. Through the mentoring sessions from the ENNEPlus partners and the CBLS approach, participants strengthened their technical and digital skills, improved teamwork across disciplines, and gained the confidence to present their solutions to an expert audience. More than just a competition, the Eco-Digithon became a platform for creativity, innovation, and cross-sector learning.
By the end of the event, the Austrian teams left not only with a well-developed project concept, but also with a shared sense of achievement and a network of like-minded peers committed to driving Europe’s green and digital transformation. Their experience stands as a shining example of how VET institutions can work together to address real-world challenges — and inspire the next generation of changemakers.
