QAinAR Study Visit Concludes Successfully at UCAM, Catholic University of Murcia
IQAinAR Study Visit Concludes Successfully at UCAM, Catholic University of Murcia
From November 13 to 17, 2023, the Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM) hosted the IQAinAR Study Visit, a significant event under the Erasmus+ KA2 programme. This collaborative initiative aimed to enhance international cooperation in higher education quality assurance, drawing participants from academic institutions across Europe and Azerbaijan. The week-long visit was packed with insightful discussions, workshops, and cultural activities that left a lasting impact on all attendees.
Highlights of the Visit
The study visit officially began with an opening ceremony on November 14 at UCAM's historic campus. The ceremony featured a formal welcome by university representatives, setting the stage for an inspiring week. Participants were introduced to UCAM's institutional mission and key initiatives, which underscored the university's commitment to fostering global partnerships. Local media, including Popular TV, captured the event, conducting interviews with organizers and participants to showcase the significance of the project.
Workshops and Discussions formed the core of the agenda, focusing on adapting quality indicators to the unique contexts of Azerbaijani institutions. Experts from UCAM and partner organizations facilitated in-depth sessions on higher education quality standards, with updates provided on critical project work packages (WP1, WP2, and WP5). These sessions fostered meaningful dialogue and knowledge exchange among participants, paving the way for actionable outcomes.
The program also included cultural activities that enriched the experience beyond academia. Participants were treated to a guided tour of Murcia's historic landmarks, immersing themselves in the city's vibrant culture. Shared meals at local restaurants provided an informal setting for further networking and camaraderie.
On November 15 and 16, the UCAM Hi-Tech Innovation Hub became the hub of collaborative efforts. Participants presented workgroup results and strategized the next phases of the project. The state-of-the-art facility exemplified UCAM’s innovative approach to fostering academic excellence and cross-border cooperation.
Looking Ahead: Closing Ceremony and Future Plans
The visit culminated in a reflective closing session, where participants shared their insights and celebrated the week’s accomplishments. Certificates of participation were awarded, recognizing the contributions of all attendees. Looking to the future, plans for the next milestone—a study visit to Baku, Azerbaijan—were outlined, signifying the continued momentum of the IQAinAR project.
The IQAinAR initiative demonstrates the transformative power of international collaboration in advancing higher education quality standards. The event’s success was due in no small part to the meticulous coordination by Katrin Schuette and Delia Postiglione of UCAM, whose efforts ensured a seamless and inspiring experience for all involved.
As the project moves forward, the connections and knowledge fostered during the Murcia visit will serve as a solid foundation for further achievements, reinforcing the commitment to academic excellence and cultural exchange.
For further information, contact:
Katrin Schuette: kschuette@ucam.edu
Delia Postiglione: dpostiglione@ucam.edu
