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Mobility of higher education students and staff supported by internal policy funds (KA131-HED) - Coordinator: POLITECHNIKA SLASKA

2023-1-PL01-KA131-HED-0001160822023Mobility of higher education students and stafffinalized
Countries: PL|AT|BE|BG|HR|CY|CZ|DK|FR|DE|EL|HU|IE|IT|LT|MT|NL|NO|PT|RO|SK|SI|ES|SE|CH|TR · Grant: €1,125,877.2

Objectives

The primary goal of implementing the Erasmus+ KA131 project was to deepen the internationalisation of our University, both strategically and operationally. The project formed part of a broader set of activities undertaken by our institution as a research university, actively engaged in international academic, scientific, and cultural exchange. Our objective was for student and staff mobility to become not only an individual experience but also a developmental driver for the institution as a whole. The project aimed to strengthen our University’s position within the European Higher Education Area and to support the development of a modern academic environment – one that is open, innovative, and socially engaged. Through the implementation of student mobilities for studies and traineeships, we sought to provide participants with experience in an international educational setting, to foster the development of their language, intercultural and social competences, and to prepare them for active participation in professional and civic life. Mobility was also intended as a tool to overcome social and geographical barriers to education and to promote attitudes of openness, independence, and responsibility. At the same time, we aimed to ensure that mobility opportunities were accessible to students with fewer opportunities, in line with the principles of equity and inclusion. For academic and administrative staff, our intention was to support their professional and scientific development by enabling their participation in teaching and training mobilities. These visits facilitated the exchange of good practices, the acquisition of new teaching methods, the development of language and intercultural competences, and the establishment of lasting relationships with international partners. Mobility also contributed to the improvement of teaching quality at our University, the expansion of our course offerings, and the integration of the international dimension into our institution’s daily operations. Another key goal of the project was to strengthen institutional capacity. We aimed to streamline mobility administration processes, develop digital tools, and enhance the professionalisation of the International Relations Office and other units involved in implementing Erasmus+ activities. We introduced solutions to improve the organisation of incoming and outgoing mobilities, prepared informational materials and language support for participants, and ensured high standards of both academic and administrative services. As a research university, the development of project-based and scientific cooperation was of particular importance. The Erasmus+ project facilitated the establishment of contacts that could lead to joint research, publications, conferences, and future project initiatives under EU and international frameworks. The exchange of experiences with partner universities helped us align more closely with European quality standards and introduce innovative elements into our teaching and research processes. A fundamental element of the project was also the promotion of the core values of the Erasmus+ Programme. We strived to ensure that our academic community actively supported attitudes of tolerance, openness, solidarity, and respect for cultural, religious, ideological, and social diversity. We created a space for intercultural dialogue and inclusion while counteracting all forms of discrimination and exclusion. We believe that academic mobility is not only a means of knowledge exchange but also a process of building responsible, conscious, and empathetic citizens of Europe. We wanted the Erasmus+ KA131 project to contribute to increasing the visibility of our University in the international academic environment and to be part of a long-term process of building its reputation as a modern institution committed to the advancement of science and education at the European level. Our goal was for our University to be recognised as a reliable, competent, and open partner in international projects – both educational and research-based. The implementation of the project also played an internally integrative role – mobilities contributed not only to the development of individual participants but also to strengthening cooperation between the University's organisational units. Thanks to joint efforts and collaboration between offices, faculties, and academic staff, the Erasmus+ project was treated as a university-wide initiative that supported the growth of our entire academic community. The project also responded to global challenges such as digital transformation, social change, workforce mobility, and the increasing demand for intercultural and linguistic competences. We view mobility as a strategic tool for preparing both students and staff to operate in a globalised world where international cooperation, openness to diversity, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions are essential for success.

Project partners (1)