For the eighth time, the Division for International Cooperation of UP hosted colleagues from partner institutions as part of the Erasmus+ International Staff Week (E+ISW). Thanks to the great interest in the seventh year of E+ISW, once again we decided to focus on the question of "New priorities and challenges in the Erasmus+ program" and discuss this topic with other colleagues as well. Since this event was held for the first time during the Advent season, twenty-three participants from twelve countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa had the opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere of Christmas Olomouc.
Our first meeting with the participants did not take place directly in Olomouc but in a virtual space. A week before the start of the event itself, we met with our colleagues during an online meeting. Its main purpose was to introduce Palacký University Olomouc, the participants, and their institutions, as well as to outline the main thematic areas for the physical part.
The main pillars of the entire E+ISW program were four workshops that focused on current topics of the Erasmus+ program. The first in a series of lectures focused on mental health and well-being, giving participants advice and tips on how to deal with the stress of working not only in an international environment. Sustainability at Palacký University Olomouc, sustainable development, or Green Erasmus were the subjects of the Sustainable University lecture. The participants had the opportunity to look under the hood of the sustainable development strategy at UP and in return share their experiences. One of the key activities of the entire Staff Week was a lecture on the topic of Students with special needs, which was prepared by our colleagues from the Center for the Support of Students with Special Needs. The participants had the opportunity not only to learn about the services that the center offers to both Czech and international students but also to listen to the experiences of two Czech students who, despite their health handicaps, decided to travel abroad with the support of the center. The last workshop was dedicated to New Priorities in the Erasmus+ Programme. During this workshop, the participants shared their experiences, troubles, and successes in areas such as inclusion, digitization, sustainability, and much more. What drew our colleagues´ attention was also the workshop on Summer and Winter Schools, offered by our university through the Office for Partnerships giving international students a great opportunity to develop their field knowledge and competencies within the framework of short-term exchange programs.
Just as important as the mentioned workshops were the activities providing our colleagues with information not only about Palacký University but also about the city of Olomouc and the traditions and culture of the Czech Republic. The program included presentations about the Czech Republic, the Czech language, a guided tour of the city by the Welcome Office, a visit to the university dormitory and canteen, or the Fort Science interactive museum. The participants applied their accumulated knowledge and team spirit during the Scavengerhunt game and deepened their newly acquired friendships during a joint visit to the Christmas markets.
Thank you to everyone involved in the organization and participation of the Erasmus+ International Staff Week. We strongly believe that this week was at least as inspiring for all participants as it was for us.
What did the participant say about the E+ISW?
"You have made us feel comfortable since the very beginning, combining the workshops with cultural activities was a brilliant idea. I also want to thank you for your hospitality. It was a 10 out of 10 for me."
"I am very grateful for the opportunity to participate in your staff week. It was good to learn how your university works.."
"Thank you so much for this amazing week! Despite the weather, it was warm, friendly, and insightful! Your team is amazing!"
"Thank you again for a perfect organization and all your help during the week."
"I'm very impressed and hope to visit your university again."
"The organization was good. Please continue on the same path."