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

2023-1-TR01-KA131-HED-0001137652023Mobility of higher education students and stafffinalized
Countries: TR · Grant: €364,488

Objectives

The Erasmus+ program continues to be a flagship initiative for Koç University (KU) in achieving its internationalization goals. Our overarching aim in implementing this KA131 project was to further advance KU’s internationalization strategy by increasing mobility opportunities for students and staff, enhancing intercultural competencies, and strengthening academic collaborations with leading higher education institutions in Europe and beyond. The program is central to several strategic objectives, including “excellence in global education for all students,” “attracting and supporting international students,” “staff internationalization,” and “enhancing KU’s research capacity and international profile.” In line with these objectives, we set out to provide meaningful mobility experiences for students and staff. The 2023 KA131 project initially anticipated 138 mobilities; however, through active promotion, efficient management, and careful allocation of resources, we successfully facilitated 222 mobilities. Throughout the project, we faced several challenges, including last-minute cancellations, delays in budget allocation, new regulations introduced in response to the earthquake, visa difficulties, and technical issues with the Turna Portal. Despite these obstacles, we adapted swiftly, ensured continuity of processes, and effectively utilized the project budget. The project has not only achieved quantitative success through the increased number of mobilities but also qualitative impact by providing high-quality, transformative experiences for students and staff. Overall, the project advanced KU’s internationalization in multiple dimensions: outbound students and staff acted as ambassadors of KU abroad, while inbound students and staff contributed to the internationalization of the campus and curricula. The project strengthened academic partnerships, encouraged joint research initiatives, and promoted cultural exchange, inclusion, and diversity. It also contributed to KU’s participation in the European Universities Initiative, UNIC, supporting both virtual and face-to-face mobility initiatives. By fostering mobility and international collaboration, this project has reinforced KU’s position as a globally engaged, innovative, and inclusive higher education institution, creating long-term benefits for students, staff, and partner organizations alike.

Project partners (1)