Training youth in drone operation skills along the border with Russia, known as the 'Eastern flank' in Lithuania.
In a unique initiative aimed at bolstering awareness and skills on NATO's 'Eastern flank', the Lithuanian Defence Ministry has established nine dadeschools to teach children and adults how to fly, assemble, and program drones. The educational focus of these schools is on technology skills and situational awareness, not combat.
The first dadeschools, located in Lithuania, teaches the operation of First Person View (FPV), quadcopter, and single-wing drones. The program is designed to familiarise the younger generation with modern technology and surveillance skills.
The teacher at this dadeschools is named Mindaugas Tamosaitis.
The drone lessons prioritise education on technology skills and situational awareness, not combat training. The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen Lithuania's preparedness along NATO's eastern frontier.
The program is open to children as young as 10 years old. It is supported by various service centres and offices, including those at the University of Duisburg-Essen, which assist with preparations, data protection, research data management, communication, diversity, ethics, and transfer. Additional support comes from organising fundraising efforts, promotional platforms, and event management software or professional event partners who assist with planning, invitations, registration, and technical setup.
The region has heightened security concerns due to elevated tensions with Russia. However, the drone schools do not primarily focus on combat training. Instead, they aim to increase public engagement in the region.
The success of the first dadeschools has prompted the establishment of eight more schools across Lithuania. The program does not specify whether it is open to individuals outside of Lithuania at this time.
This innovative approach to technology education and awareness is expected to have a lasting impact on the region, fostering a new generation of technologically-savvy individuals equipped with the skills necessary to navigate a rapidly-changing world.
