BIP: Sustainability: Challenges and Opportunities

Welcome to the International Exchange Week: "Sustainability: Challenges and Opportunities" – a transformative, blended intensive programme that promises to be a great experience. In an ever-changing world, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it's a call to action. This programme is your chance to embark on an inspiring journey, foster a deep understanding of global sustainability challenges and the boundless opportunities that await.

Our programme offers a dynamic blend of knowledge sharing, hands-on experience, and cross-cultural immersion. Speakers from diverse fields in industry and academia will share their insights, shedding light on the diverse sustainability issues of our time. But it doesn't stop there. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with peers from other higher education institutions in different European countries, engaging in real-world projects that tackle sustainability challenges head-on. In addition to academic pursuits, we understand the importance of building international connections. Engage in unforgettable social activities that will allow you to connect with fellow students, broaden your horizons and enrich your European network.

Join us and be part of the change. Sustainability is not just a topic; it's a way of life, and your participation in this programme is a significant step towards a brighter, more sustainable future. Don't miss this opportunity to make a difference.

The social activities were the highlight of the programme! They provided a unique space to bond with students from diverse backgrounds.”

Before you set foot in Belgium, the adventure begins with our engaging online "Take off" phase. You will receive a virtual assignment to kickstart your exploration and dive into the world of sustainability.

You will explore your personal growth in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and calculate and reflect upon the ecological footprint of both yourself and your home country. You will use this information to introduce yourself to your project team and initiate discussions about the assignment.

Once you arrive in Belgium for our International Week on our campus in Diepenbeek, you will engage in a dynamic programme, featuring:

Inspirational lectures that shed light on the week's theme.
Collaborative project work with your international multidisciplinary team, focusing on selected case studies.
A grand finale with team presentations of your project work.

But the journey doesn't end there! After your stay in Belgium, we guide you through the reflective "Off-boarding" phase, in which you self-reflect on the invaluable insights you gained from your experience. You will engage in a team discussion, building upon the foundation laid during the "Take off" assignment. Finally you polish and upload your team's presentation, encapsulating your sustainability journey and lessons learned.

During the week we organize several relaxing and social activities to help you connect with your fellow students: campus tour, city game, cultural visit, Belgian evening with typical dishes…

Exploring the Jenever Museum in Hasselt was an eye-opening experience. It showcased the rich history and culture of the region in a way that textbooks can't. It's moments like these that add a layer of authenticity to our learning journey, connecting us to the heart of the host country.

11-15 March 2024 (timing CET)

January 5th 2024

Students with Erasmus BIP grant and UCLL students: free
Students without Erasmus grant: 100 EUR registration fee (accommodation not included)

UCLL Campus Diepenbeek
Agoralaan, building B
3590 Diepenbeek
Belgium

Participants are free to book their own accommodation (at their own expense). We can recommend the Youth Hostel or Yup Hotel.

Students (2nd and 3rd-year Bachelor students, 1st-year Master students), lecturers and researchers from all disciplines.

Need more details? Our coordinator Femke Sterckx is happy to help you.

Working alongside students from diverse backgrounds pushed me out of my comfort zone. The collaboration challenged us to think critically and explore new perspectives. This experience has definitely broadened my horizons.