All Aboard, 20 years of internationalisation!

We cordially invite you to All Aboard, the annual networking and policy event for UAntwerp employees with an interest in internationalization.

A celebratory edition will take place on Tuesday 23 April, at the Hof van Liere, City Campus, from 12:00 to 17:30.

We'll reflect on successful stories from the past, focus on the present, but mostly look forward to the future.

We'll visually depict the past on this website and through a poster exhibition on the day itself. The afternoon will be dedicated to discussing the future of internationalization: exchanging ideas, being inspired by two external guest speakers, and listening hopefully to our policymakers. The keynotes can be attended in person or online.

Programme

12:00-13:00: Reception and Networking Lunch

13:00-13:15: Welcome by Rector Herman Van Goethem by Vice-Rector Filip Lardon (live + online)

13:15-14:00: Keynote by Hans De Wit (live + online, language: English)

14:00-15:30: Choose from 3 parallel sessions (physical attendance only)

Session 1: From Bachelor student to PhD researcher: International mobility at every university level (Language: Dutch)

Promoting international student mobility is a key pillar within the internationalisation policy of the University of Antwerp. While many are familiar with traditional student exchanges through the Erasmus programme, there are also other avenues to develop international competencies. During this session, we will explore various mobility opportunities, including virtual exchange programmes within the YUFE network, short-term mobility programmes, exchanges to the Global South, and mobility opportunities within PhD programmes.

Speakers: Li Heyl (YUFE), Fien Nyssen (Faculty Business and Economics), Jana Cuyvers (Antwerp Doctoral School) en Karolien van Dessel (Antwerp Doctoral School), Sebastian Van Hoeck (Global Engagement Officer)

Session 2: Expanding Horizons: Transforming our Study Programmes from English to International (Language: English)

This session focuses on what constitutes an international programme. We'll shed light on best practices and foster a dialogue about what it truly means. Throughout, we'll explore methods for promoting a global perspective in the curriculum, the advantages of incorporating a mobility window, strategies for organising a Blended Intense Programme, and navigating the YUFE student journey.

Speakers: Sebastian Van Hoeck (U&S, Global Engagement Officer), Sara Dewachter (IOB), Les de Vries (Internationalisation Coordinator FFTI), Helena Ooms (Policy Officer departement Onderwijs)

Session 3: Supporting the International Journey – the User Perspective (Language: English)

The journey of internationals at our university starts long before they arrive in Antwerp and ends long after they leave the university. Along the way, they need a variety of information, facilities and services to support and enhance their international experience. In this engaging panel discussion, we will hear first-hand accounts from very distinct perspectives – that of a student, a PhD researcher, and a staff member. Come discover our user panel’s unique experiences and hear their suggestions for optimising support systems at the university.

Speakers: Kristel De Poorter (Antwerp Doctoral School Officer), Karla Tersago (Head of Antwerp Doctoral School), Parul Goel (Coordinator International Students Office), Lotte Coenen (Officer International Staff Office)

15:30-16:00: Coffee Break

16:00-16:35: Keynote by Omar Mohout "Internationalisation in times of extreme uncertainty" (live + online, language: English)

​In our fast-evolving world, the dynamic shifts in markets and societal norms are a testament to unpredictability. Planning for the future might seem like a herculean task amidst such volatility, yet there's solace in one constant: the quickening pace of change. During this keynote, we'll explore key technological advancements that are currently reshaping our reality, particularly emphasizing their influence on internationalisation within the realms of education and research. Our aim is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of these trends and their potential consequences, empowering you to face the forthcoming challenges with confidence.

Omar Mohout, Partner and Head of Digital at management consulting firm Nova Reperta, is a recognized expert in the technology and entrepreneurship fields. With a background as a technology entrepreneur, he advises companies on digital transformation and growth strategy. Mohout has written numerous books in the areas of entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology. He is an active columnist and speaker.

16:35-16:45: Closing Remarks by Rector-elect Herwig Leirs (live + online, language: English)

16:45-17:30: Reception

Registration is open until 5 April. (Registration is only open for UAntwerp personnel)

Contact

International Relations Office