Staff Week - Higher Education in a Shifting Global Landscape: Skills, Strategies, and Responsibilities

Course description

Conducted as a Blended Intensive Programme and in collaboration with our European University Alliance EUniWell, this week brings together teaching and support staff from Linnaeus University and its partner institutions to explore the role of higher education in a changing global landscape. With curiosity, creativity, input, and interactivity we aim to raise the participants’ levels of awareness and gain insights about strategies that can support universities to achieve their goals, missions, and visions.

Background

In an era marked by geopolitical shifts, global challenges, and increasing interconnectedness, Higher Education Institutions play a pivotal role in shaping inclusive, sustainable, and democratic futures. This responsibility requires universities to foster collaboration across borders and equip staff and students with skills to navigate complexity and drive positive global change.

Objectives

The overall objective of the activities during the International Staff Training Week is to examine how academic institutions can be catalysts for positive change in an increasingly complex global landscape. More specifically, participants will engage in conversation and learn about skills, strategies, and responsibilities required for impactful global engagement in such a landscape.

Content

The week includes a dynamic programme of workshops, keynote lectures, panel discussions, and collaborative activities focused on:

• Understanding the geopolitical context of international higher education
• Addressing risks and responsibilities to ensure safe, ethical, and sustainable global engagements
• Exploring equitable approaches to promote fairness and inclusivity in international collaboration
• Strengthening intercultural skills for navigating in a changing global landscape
  Job-shadowing opportunities to learn from counterparts and share best practices

Additionally, the week offers opportunities to learn more about Linnaeus University, connect with its staff and faculty, and representatives from participating institutions. Beyond workshops and seminars, the program includes activities for participants to explore Kalmar, Växjö and the region.