17th International Staff Training Week (ISTW), Theme: Human-Centred Universities in the Global Era
Event Overview
Higher education is undergoing profound transformation driven by globalisation, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, demographic shifts, geopolitical changes and evolving learner expectations. In this changing landscape, universities are increasingly expected to become
human-centred institutions that combine academic excellence with inclusive, resilient and supportive environments for students, staff and society.
The theme “Human-Centred Universities in the Global Era •Innovation • Internationalisation • Sustainable Development” explores how higher education institutions can successfully respond to these challenges while maintaining academic excellence, strengthening international cooperation and fostering a culture of inclusion, belonging and lifelong learning. Special attention will be devoted to the human side of higher education: creating supportive learning and working environments, promoting mental wellbeing, inclusive leadership, intercultural dialogue and student-centred approaches in increasingly diverse academic communities.
The programme will also address strategic internationalisation, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, sustainable university management, innovative teaching methods, university-business cooperation and the development of future-ready graduates. Through keynote lectures, interactive workshops, study visits and networking activities, participants will exchange good practices, develop practical solutions and strengthen international partnerships within the Erasmus+ framework and beyond.
General Objectives of the 17th ISTW
- Sharing best practices in internationalisation, innovation and university management.
- Exploring global trends shaping higher education in the 21st century.
- Strengthening international cooperation and developing sustainable Erasmus+ partnerships.
- Promoting innovative teaching, digital transformation and AI-supported university services.
- Developing staff competences in leadership, intercultural communication and international project management.
- Supporting universities in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Creating opportunities for future joint research, education and mobility initiatives
Key Thematic Sessions
1. Innovation and Digital Transformation
Exploring how universities can drive innovation through digital transformation, artificial intelligence, innovative teaching and learning, university-business cooperation, and the development of future-ready competences for students and staff.
2. Internationalisation and Global Engagement
Strengthening the international dimension of higher education through strategic internationalisation, Erasmus+ cooperation, Internationalisation at Home, COIL, global partnerships, intercultural communication and student-centred international education.
3. Human-Centred Universities: Wellbeing, Inclusion and Sustainability
Building resilient universities that integrate sustainability, social responsibility and the Sustainable Development Goals while fostering inclusive leadership, wellbeing, belonging, diversity and supportive learning and working environments for students and staff.
Programme Activities
The programme combines:
- keynote lectures delivered by international experts;
- interactive workshops;
- panel discussions;
- exchange of institutional good practices;
- networking sessions;
- study visits to university laboratories and regional partners;
- intercultural activities;
- project development sessions supporting future Erasmus+ cooperation.
Expected Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the programme participants will be able to:
- understand global trends influencing higher education;
- design and support institutional internationalisation strategies;
- apply innovative digital solutions and AI tools in university management;
- strengthen international cooperation and develop sustainable partnerships;
- promote sustainability and social responsibility within higher education institutions;
- exchange good practices with colleagues from different countries;
- identify opportunities for future Erasmus+ projects and collaborative initiatives.
Target Group
The programme is designed for:
- academic staff;
- administrative staff;
- Erasmus+ coordinators;
- international relations officers;
- quality assurance specialists;
- university managers;
- project managers;
- staff responsible for internationalisation, innovation and strategic development.
Networking and Cultural Programme
Participants will have the opportunity to experience the cultural heritage of Nysa and the Opole Region through organised cultural events,
networking dinners and study visits, fostering intercultural dialogue and strengthening professional relationships.
For more information and registration:
🌍 Website: PANS ICO Blog
✉️ Contact: international@pans.nysa.pl
🔗 Registration link: TBA
Payment terms and conditions: TBA
Agenda ISTW 2027: TBA