International Week further explores aspects of sustainability.
March, 20-22 2024
After last year's successful edition, International Week will further explore various aspects of sustainability. The programme will include sessions focusing on HOGENT-expertise as well as sessions highlighting expertise of international partners, both from education and research practice. HOGENT is looking forward to welcome you!
The six themes that will be covered are:
- sustainability policy
- climate, energy and mobility
- Inclusion
- Sustainability in education
- Biodiversity & Agrofood sustainability
Please check the full programme below.
Practical info
Erasmus+
If you come with an Erasmus+ grant for training (STT), you can contact us via staffmob@hogent.be. During the International Week there will be a desk to get your documents signed (mobility agreement, certificate of attendance). The desk will be open on Wednesday 20th March from 5:30pm (after the last session) and on Thursday 21st March during lunch time.
- Erasmus code HOGENT: B Gent 25
- The contact person for Erasmus+ formalities is Katrien Van Acker.
Hotels
The following hotels offer a reduction if you book for the International Week.
Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel
Brabantdam 33 Ghent
reservations@yalohotel.com - reduction code: HOGENT24
Yalo Hotel offers a reduction of 10%.
Reservations: go to www.historic-hotels-ghent.com - use reduction code HOGENT24
Ghent River Hotel
- 150 euros standard single room + breakfast (tourist tax of 3.5 euros/night not included)
- 160 euros standard double/twin room + breakfast(tourist tax of 3.5 euros/night not included)
Hotel de Flandre
- 140 euros standard single room + breakfast (tourist tax of 3.5 euros/night not included)
- 150 euros standard double/twin room + breakfast(tourist tax of 3.5 euros/night not included)
Gravensteen Hotel
- 130 euros standard single room + breakfast (tourist tax of 3.5 euros/night not included)
- 140 euros standard double/twin room + breakfast(tourist tax of 3.5 euros/night not included)
Programme.
Wednesday 20 March
SUSTAINABILITY POLICY
All session take place at
Campus Schoonmeersen
Voskenslaan 364A, 9000 Ghent
This campus is located at a walking distance from the central train station in Ghent, called ‘Gent-Sint Pieters’
10:00 - 11:00
Registration
11:00 - 11:10
Welcome at HOGENT.
11:10 - 11:50
HOGENT Sustainability Policy in action
Karen Van Bastelaere, Sustainability Coordinator HOGENT, Arthur Wullaert, Mercedes Buseyne, HOGENT Sustainability Office
After drafting and approving a broad sustainability policy, HOGENT is now working on implementing its policy with concrete actions. These include amongst others the establishment of the HOGENT Sustainability Office, which is co-designed by students. By actively involving them, they learn fundamental skills to develop initiatives around climate issues and inclusion and help ensure that HOGENT takes steps forward in its sustainability policy. HOGENT is also committed to involving various partners to work on sustainability in a co-creative way.
11:50 - 12:30
Sustainability in HOGENT’s European University Alliance ‘U!REKA SHIFT’
Liesbet Cosyn, Head of U!REKA SHIFT HOGENT
Since 2024, HOGENT is a partner of the European University Alliance U!REKA SHIFT. U!REKA SHIFT aims to establish a long-term strategic and structural cooperation to integrate our teaching and research into a European university with a specific focus to contribute to a sustainable, humane, inclusive and future-proof transition to Climate Neutral and Smart Cities. We are happy to share where this alliance is heading and the challenges we face.
12:30 - 14:00
Lunch
Wednesday 20 March
CLIMATE, ENERGY AND MOBILITY
14:00 - 15:00
The spatial impact of the energy transition.
Joeri de Bekker, Landscape Architect – Teacher HAS Green Academy – Chair NVTL (the Netherlands)
Our efforts to move away from fossil energy have an unintended side effect. The space required by our energy needs is increasing exponentially, especially if we focus on solar and wind energy. Can we get a grip on these consequences and perhaps use our energy management as a new spatial planning tool?
After the session, participants will know more about the spatial impact of our energy transition and are triggered to come up with new insights and ideas.
15:00 - 16:00
Option 1: How a school can make a commitment to climate and mobility by implementing certification.
Franck Chauvin, Caroline Deweer, Head of CSR policy / Research engineer CSR Team, JUNIA, Lille (France)
JUNIA has been certified since 2011 for its environmental management system (ISO 14001) for all its activities (training, research, and consulting). It will present their actions in terms of energy and mobility in that framework, and their results since 2011. For instance, their energy consumption is 40% less nowadays compared to 2011. They will also introduce you to their climate strategy.
After this session, participants will know how a school can make a commitment to climate and mobility by implementing certification. They will also know a bit more about certification that is more spread in the industrial area
Option 2: Guided visit of HELA – HOGENT Education Learning Academy, HOGENT Educational Development office
From various initiatives and entities, the HOGENT Education Learning Academy was established. HELA stands for a meeting and exploration place where learning from and with each other is central. Assisted by a support team, you can experiment in a safe environment, upgrade your digital skills, research your teaching practice and learn about education in various ways: from sessions, demos and intervisions to professional learning communities. And all this physically or online, the user chooses!
Alternative session: Guided tour on HOGENT's biodiversity policy, HOGENT Team Living Lab/ Working group biodiversity
Walk along on campus safari and discover HOGENT gems for biodiversity, including the HOGENT ecoshelter. The ideal opportunity also to stretch your legs and get some fresh air in the greenery.
16:30 - 17:30
Dutchify your street!
Ruxandra Aelenei, Lecturer mobility and urban planning, Lisanne Corpel, Lecturer-Researcher Climate Resilient Cities, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (AUAS, the Netherlands)
The classification of urban typologies for The Netherlands projected on a map is a useful tool developed by AUAS and facilitate local and regional authorities in selecting suitable climate adaptation measures. Another tool, that has been developed by the Dutch tourism authorities, is a fun AI tool that lets you instantly "dutchify" your local street, i.e. make it more pedestrian- and bike friendly. In this session the methodologies and this tool will be used in a workshop setting to stir up discussions about the relationship between mobility and other urban topics, such as: livability, health, climate, economic vibrancy, urban happiness, biodiversity and so on.
Participants will know more about Dutch street design principles and about planning for people. Also, they will better understand the impact our (personal and professional) choices in the field of mobility and climate adaptation have on the quality of living and on the urban space.
17:30 – 18:30
Welcome drink
Thursday 21 March
INCLUSION
All session take place at
Campus Mercator
Henleykaai 84, 9000 Ghent
09:00 - 10:00
Breaking Barriers: Strategies for Supporting First-Generation Students.
David Van Bunder, Research Centre for Learning in Diversity, HOGENT (Belgium)
First-generation students (FGS), whose parents have no experience with higher education, often encounter challenges in higher education. Universities and universities of applied sciences aim to support them through diverse initiatives like summer schools. We interviewed a dozen individuals from various universities in Flanders and the Netherlands who are involved in these initiatives, shedding light on the various motivations to start these programmes, programme specifics, internal challenges and support, as well as the integration of theoretical frameworks.
Participants will gain insights into practical challenges faced by institutions when implementing and sustaining initiatives for FGS, intertwined with understanding the pivotal role of theoretical frameworks in shaping these support programmes. They will develop awareness of the complexities involved in supporting first-generation students in higher education, sparking inspiration and actionable ideas for cultivating similar initiatives within their educational institutions or communities.
10:00 - 11:00
Option 1: Multicultural Classrooms: Inclusive Learning and Teaching in Higher Education
Mehmet Emin Bakay, Assist. Prof. Dr. at Izmir Katip Çelebi University, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences (Turkey) and David Van Bunder, Research Centre for Learning in Diversity, HOGENT (Belgium)
We will focus on the Erasmus+ KA2 project, executed in collaboration with eight partner universities, which has been successfully implemented within the Higher Education sector. The primary goal of the initiative is to empower lecturers, equipping them with the necessary skills to navigate and contribute effectively within a diverse and multilingual educational setting. As a testament to our commitment, we aim to share our valuable experiences during the Erasmus KA2 project, shedding light on the process and insights gained throughout the journey. Our focus will particularly center on presenting the project outputs, emphasizing the significance of international research findings derived from our comprehensive study.
The listeners can anticipate a wealth of valuable international research findings, offering practical takeaways to enhance inclusivity and effectiveness in higher education settings.
Option 2: Inclusion can be playful! Inclusion is the solution, not the problem.
Katrien De Munck, researcher EQUALITY//ResearchCollective, HOGENT (Belgium)
Join us for playful content on how to make a difference for a socially just and an inclusive society. While it can seem complex or impossible to create or sustain participation in some contexts, we find much more ways and possibilities to live, work and be together, when we are given permission to play, try out, fail and learn by doing.
You will see how we can create social justice by knowing and using the concept and method of co-design. You will get some knowledge and tools that you can ‘try at home’ afterwards.
11:30 - 12:30
Option 1: Identity and inclusion: Factors that shape participation of person with disability in work.
Lana Van Niekerk, associate professor Stellenbosch University (South Africa)
This session provides an overview of research undertaken to explore what factors promote or hinder the participation of persons with disability in work. The person with disability’s own appraisal of their fit in the world of work will be highlighted. Insights shared draw on primary research, a systematic review and scoping review.
At the end of the session participants will know more about: the influences that shape participation of persons with disability in work; and the influence of identity in shaping participation in work.
Option 2: Elevating educational effectiveness: the art of impactful teaching in varied learning landscapes
Chris Beech, Assistant Principal & dean, Burton and South Derbyshire College (UK), Sofie Bruneel, Senior Staff member Educational development, HOGENT (Belgium)
In educational institutions, the importance of active change management in terms of diversity and inclusion cannot be overemphasized. Implementing change strategies is critical in shaping the landscape of teaching methods, influencing teacher approaches and ultimately improving the learning experience for students. Thoughtful change management in education can inspire innovation, foster a positive learning environment and encourage the adoption of progressive pedagogies. Through diverse, 'lived-through' cases, we aim to demonstrate that when these changes take root among teachers, students can benefit from an enriched and dynamic learning environment. And teachers in turn, too.
After the session participants will have a better understanding of the importance of impactful, hence inclusive, teaching; the importance of change management; and what effect that has on a teams and students.
Thursday 21 March
SUSTAINABILITY IN EDUCATION
12:30 - 14:00
Lunch
14:00 - 15:00
Designing sustainable curricula that are directed towards learning outcomes in HOGENT.
Anne-Sophie Seghers, Senior Staff Member of Educational Development Office, HOGENT, Liesbeth Van Heck, Head of Educational Development Office, including International Office, HOGENT (Belgium)
The Educational Development Office of HOGENT created a methodology to design sustainable curricula directed towards learning outcomes in higher education. After all, most literature focuses on the design of single courses or general pedagogical principles, but fails to inform on how to practically develop complete curricula on professional higher education level. They wanted to bridge this gap by developing a methodology, hopefully leading to a practical toolkit for curriculum development. By this methodology/toolkit, teaching staff & curriculum managers in the process of building sustainable curricula are supported.
After the session, you will have been introduced to our curriculum development toolkit and the underlying vision for achieving sustainable curricula directed towards learning outcomes.
15:00 - 16:00
Green Skills for Enterprises – Educational Approach for Sustainable Future.
Evelin Vaab, Director of Institute of Engineering and Circular Economy, TTK UAS (Estonia)
Overview of the Green Skills Development Programme 2023-2026 in Estonia. Process of updating of the learning content related to the teaching of green competences in higher and vocational education. Challenges in mapping and transferring the broader knowledge and updating professional standards.
After this session, the participants will know more about the programme that supports the development of skills necessary for companies to lead more sufficient and sustainable activities. Participants will be actively involved while sharing an overview about current situation, about practical results and insights revealed during the process.
16:30 - 17:30
Option 1: Sustainability in COIL and BIPs
Ellen Goossens, Lecture in Nursing, Department of Health Care, HOGENT (Belgium)
Join us for a transformative session where we delve into the dynamic world of COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning), BIP (Blended Intensive Programme) and Sustainability. Discover the power of global collaboration as COIL fosters cross-cultural connections, unlocking new perspectives and insights.
Experience the best of both worlds with our innovative Blended Intensive Programme, where online and in-person elements converge to create a holistic and engaging learning environment.
Elevate your understanding and contribute to a future where international collaboration and sustainability harmoniously thrive.
After this session, participants will: gain a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively engage in Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL); acquire valuable insights into navigating and maximizing the benefits of a Blended Intensive Programme (BIP), equipping them with the skills to seamlessly integrate online and in-person elements for a well-rounded educational experience; and leave with practical knowledge on incorporating sustainability principles into their (international) curriculum.
Option 2: Empowering Tomorrow's Changemakers: Students Driving Sustainable Impact
Dr. Linda Nol, Study leader Earth & Climate and Head of Practice Learning, Floris Keizer MSc, Lecturer Soil and Water, Aeres University of Applied Sciences (the Netherlands)
Many study programmes focus on theory, research skills and reporting (for teachers), all important prerequisites for direct and indirect impact on a company and/or on society after graduation. However, developing professional tasks, which are incorporated in the curriculum, together with companies, (governmental) organizations and NGO’s, can culminate in making sustainable impact by students during their studies, as we will show in examples of students driving sustainable impact at Aeres University of Applied Sciences. This requires a fundamental shift in educational vision, where room is reserved in the curriculum for internships and client-based projects with a professional task.
In a workshop session, you will explore where in your curriculum you can reach learning-goals and increase sustainable impact at the same time through incorporation of connections with businesses, applied impact-driven research and (non)-governmental organizations.
After this session you will leave the room with a list of your curriculum-goals you can achieve while increasing student and university sustainable impact.
Alternative session: Interactive lecture and debate - Freedom of Speech
(until 17.50h)
Marike Lefevre, policy officer Flemish Institute for Human Rights
Join us for an engaging lecture on Freedom of Speech, a hot topic in society and at HOGENT. Marike Lefevre, policy officer at the Flemish Institute for Human Rights, will talk about her PHD "European Human Rights as Agents for Cultural Change or Conservation?". Afterwards you are invited to engage in a cordial debate to exchange point of views. For this activity, you will be taken to HOGENT's Bijloke campus by four students from the Organisational Management programme who are organising the activity. This historic site Bijloke surrounded by greenery is home to the School of Arts and other organisations. The KASKcafé, a meeting place for students and HOGENT staff to catch up or relax, will also be visited.
19:00
Dinner in the city of Ghent
Friday 22 March
BIODIVERSITY & AGROFOOD SUSTAINABILITY
All session take place at
Campus Vesalius
Keramiekstraat 80, 9000 Ghent
9:00 - 10:00
Healthy and sustainable food in every school?
Katrien De Maegd, Researcher and educational developer, EQUALITY ResearchCollective, HOGENT, Naomi Dries, Program Officer, GoodFood@School at Rikolto (Belgium)
Session about the research of the LEOS project. A project in which Ghent primary schools introduced healthy and sustainable meals. Together with Rikolto, other initiatives within Belgium and abroad are discussed/ explored.
The participants will know more about how to implement good food @schools. Participants will discuss the possibilities for making food@school sustainable and healthy.
10:00 - 11:00
The protein shift: from field to plate.
Joos Latré, senior lecturer agriculture, Melissa Camerlinck, Lecturer food technology, Research Centre AgroFoodNature, HOGENT (Belgium)
Which protein crops can be grown in Belgium and how do we address the cultivation challenges? What post-harvest bottlenecks exist and how do we find appropriate solutions? What success factors are already known today throughout the complete supply chain? What are the technological challenges in processing and what do consumers expect from locally grown protein crops?
After this session, participants will have an idea of which protein crops have a real potential in a supply chain approach. They also will have an idea of which bottlenecks and challenges still exist throughout the complete agrifood system.
11:30 - 12:30
Can we save biodiversity, so biodiversity can save us?
Dr. ir. An De Schrijver, Docent, Nature Conservation and Management, HOGENT (Belgium)
Worldwide, biodiversity is increasingly under threat due to human activities. Especially during the past decades, biodiversity declined faster than ever. Initiatives on a European scale are trying to turn the tide. And with result! There are still big issues, but also hopeful signs.
In this lecture I will take you through the historical ups and downs of biodiversity, I will talk about the importance of biodiversity for our daily lives and will show how large but also small citizen initiatives can make a significant difference for biodiversity. And so also for us.