21 November 2024
YUFE has made a significant stride in fostering academic cooperation between European and Ukrainian institutions. Thanks to the COIN2 project (Copernican Integration Network) led by Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń the alliance had the opportunity to forge ties and exchange best practices with the Ukrainian universities.
A United European Effort
One of the project’s highlights were 2 YUFE–Ukraine Contact Seminars organised in Toruń, Poland, together with YUFE’s Language Centres task force. First, hosted in September, was devoted to lifelong learning in VUCA times. Second, which took place in November, concerned Cooperation in Online Language Teaching and Learning. Thanks to received funds specialists from 4 Ukrainian and 8 YUFE partner universities were able to meet and share their professional experiences.
YUFE Strengthens Bonds with Ukrainian Universities
Andrzej Romański
The aim of the first session was to develop cooperation between the YUFE and Ukraine in the area of lifelong learning. The concept of lifelong learning refers to any activity undertaken at any point in life with the aim of acquiring new skills, personal development, or gaining knowledge. This is also a dimension of education close to YUFE’s heart. Pinpointing skills of the future, relevant especially in the VUCA world, and providing educational offer is one of the YUFE goals – goals that is already being implemented:
Managing Complexity Courses offer.
Already established cooperation was then deepened during November’s meeting. This time the focus was on language learning and teaching. The topics included the practical uses of AI by language teachers and learners, the integration of Design Thinking techniques into English learning, as well as discussions about available programmes, tools.
Transforming Challenges into Opportunities
Built bridges will now enhance the cooperation between YUFE and Ukrainian universities. The established network already plans future collaborations. The success of the COIN2 project highlights the transformative potential of European university alliances like YUFE. By uniting diverse institutions to address shared challenges, YUFE has created a platform for meaningful collaboration, enabling European and Ukrainian universities to strengthen ties, share knowledge, and build a brighter, more interconnected future.
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Project COIN2 was funded by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) through the ‘Solidarity with Ukraine’ programme. Thanks to it NCU has spearheaded numerous events aimed at strengthening project ties. The initiative is supported by a substantial grant of over 800,000 PLN, which NCU has dedicated to deepening collaboration and promoting mobility among staff from YUFE and Ukrainian universities.
