RUSTIK to Feature at the European Congress on Renewal and Rural Development in Poznań

On the second day of the European Congress on Renewal and Rural Development, taking place from 8 to 10 May at the MTP Poznań Expo, the RUSTIK project will be featured in a dedicated session focused on strengthening rural communities through sustainable transformation.

The Congress, organised by the Polish Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in cooperation with the Greater Poland regional government and under the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, brings together over 1,500 participants from across Europe, including policymakers, researchers, NGOs, and rural leaders.

During the session titled “RUSTIK: Strengthening rural communities on their way to sustainable transformation”, our partners Ewa Korcelli-Olejniczak from the Institute of Geography and Spatial Organization (IGSO PAS) will represent the Woj. Mazowieckie Living Lab in Poland (this Living Lab is co-organised in cooperation with the Foundation for the Development of Polish Agriculture (FDPA)), while Ilona Rac from the University of Ljubljana will represent the Osrednjeslovenska regija Living Lab.

They will present key insights from the RUSTIK project, which supports rural areas in addressing complex challenges through a combination of data-driven analysis and community-based approaches, helping to guide sustainable and inclusive rural transformations.

RUSTIK’s participation aligns with the Congress’s emphasis on rural resilience, inclusive development, and innovation, contributing to the broader conversation on the future of rural Europe.

The event opens on 8 May with a full day dedicated to Greater Poland, Regional Development and Youth, highlighting the region’s achievements in rural renewal, the role of women in leadership, and the perspectives of youth on the future of rural areas. The first day also included sessions on food production, health, education, local governance, and rural tourism, setting the stage for in-depth discussions over the following days.

The Congress continues through 10 May with further sessions on agricultural policy, international cooperation, and the future of rural development in the EU beyond 2027.

Unlocking Digital Potential: Gloucestershire’s Rural Renaissance

Gloucestershire, nestled in South West England, boasts a rich tapestry of rural life, home to nearly 650,000 residents. While urban centers like Cheltenham and Gloucester buzz with activity, our focus turns to the county’s rural heartland: Stroud, Forest of Dean, Cotswold, and Tewkesbury.

Transition Focus: Digital Divide

Despite 96.49% Superfast broadband coverage, rural communities face significant digital disparities. According to Citizens Online (2022), up to 8% of adults lack basic internet access or essential digital skills. This gap hinders economic and social inclusion, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to bridge these divides.

Living Lab Initiative in Gloucestershire:

In Cirencester and neighboring parishes, we’re pioneering community-level datasets to understand digital needs and capabilities better. By collaborating closely with local stakeholders—from social housing providers to town councils—we’re developing a nuanced understanding of how digital access impacts daily lives. This initiative isn’t just about data collection; it’s about fostering a robust digital ecosystem where everyone can participate and benefit equally.

Policy Relevance:

Aligned with Gloucestershire’s comprehensive Digital Inclusion Strategy, our efforts aim to empower communities with digital literacy and equitable access. By integrating local insights and partnerships, we’re shaping policies that resonate deeply with rural realities. This approach ensures no one is left behind in our collective journey towards a digitally inclusive society.

Emerging Data Needs:

To address the complex challenges of data integration, we’re leveraging expertise from the University of Gloucestershire to develop interactive dashboards. These tools empower decision-makers with real-time insights, guiding informed strategies for sustainable rural development. Our focus is on enhancing digital connectivity, fostering digital skills among diverse demographics, and supporting local businesses to thrive in a digital-first economy.

Join us in navigating Gloucestershire’s dynamic digital landscape, paving the way for inclusive growth, resilient communities, and a future-ready county where everyone can thrive!