"The Erasmus+ project significantly enhanced the institutional capacity of Universum International College, allowing it to expand its international profile. By participating in Erasmus+ programs, UNI has strengthened partnerships with educational institutions across Europe, facilitating student and staff mobility. This has provided students and staff with opportunities to study, teach, and train abroad, thereby enriching the academic and professional experiences. The college's active engagement in Erasmus+ projects has also contributed to curriculum modernization, focusing on innovative teaching methods, digital skills, and cross-cultural competencies.
Erasmus+ has been crucial in fostering cultural exchange by enabling students from Universum International College to experience different cultures, education systems, and lifestyles. Through student mobility programs, participants have had the chance to live and study in diverse environments, which has broadened their horizons and deepened their understanding of different cultures. Similarly, incoming students have brought diverse perspectives to Kosovo, enriching the local community and promoting intercultural dialogue and mutual respect.
The main impact of Erasmus+ participation has been the increased internationalization of Universum International College. The program has helped in establishing strategic partnerships, enhancing academic standards, and fostering an international perspective among students and staff. This exposure has not only improved the quality of education but also prepared students of UNI for a competitive global job market by equipping them with essential skills and competencies. Additionally, it has strengthened the institution’s mission of promoting social inclusion and diversity.
Several Erasmus+ projects at Universum International College have been specifically aimed at enhancing digital competencies. Projects like ITEM (Innovative Teaching Education in Mathematics) and STEAMedu have focused on integrating digital tools and methodologies into the curriculum, giving students and staff practical experience with modern technologies. Additionally, projects such as e-VIVA and INTERBA have utilized online platforms to facilitate workshops, collaborative activities, and virtual discussions, enabling participants to gain hands-on experience with digital communication tools. Through these projects, students and staff have developed essential digital skills, including skills in online communication, digital collaboration, remote project management and the use of educational technologies.
Success stories of UNI Universum International College from Erasmus+ projects include the implementation of the REBUS project, which helped develop entrepreneurial skills among students, bridging the gap between academic education and industry requirements. Next is, the STEPS project, which led to the modernization of MSc programs in sustainable food production, highlighting the integration of practical, modern educational content. Additionally, the INTERBA project, promoted internationalization at home, which enabled students who could not travel to benefit from intercultural learning experiences within their local environment. Then, the VirtuEu project, which created a virtual platform where students engaged in discussions about active citizenship, inclusivity, and European values, allowing them to interact with peers across Europe and fostering a sense of community and global awareness. Moreover, the WEBJOU project aimed at multidisciplinary teaching in data journalism, is a success story of equipping students with skills in data analysis and digital storytelling through virtual sessions. These are just some projects which have led to curriculum improvements, skill development, and strengthened collaborations with European universities."