From October 1-4, 2024, the University of Pécs hosted a pioneering staff training event titled "Community Building at European Universities." This gathering brought together communication officers and community managers from various European university alliances to discuss the challenges faced in their field.
As a proud member of the EDUC European University Alliance, the University of Pécs was thrilled to organize this inaugural training event. Its primary goal was to identify and address the challenges in communication and community building within European universities. The program featured lectures, workshops, and leisure activities designed to share best practices, theoretical insights, and practical ideas while fostering a sense of community.
Thirty-one participants from seventeen European university alliances convened in person for the first time, allowing them to connect and lay the groundwork for future collaborations.
In his opening speech, Péter Árvai, Deputy Director of the International Centre at the University of Pécs, highlighted the crucial yet often unrecognized role of community managers within university alliances.
„The community manager's role in this alliance is somehow vital, yet in many cases unseen or unrecognized," Árvai said.
He noted that building a sense of community within each university while promoting the benefits of the EDUC Alliance can sometimes be challenging, particularly when balancing these efforts with the individual marketing and communication goals of each institution.
Árvai emphasized that while individual universities may sometimes feel they can progress faster by working independently, the true strength of the European alliances lies in cooperation.
„Alone you can go faster, but together we can go further,"
he remarked, underscoring the core philosophy behind EDUC and similar collaborative efforts in higher education. By working together, European universities can collectively shape the future of education in the region and strengthen their competitive edge globally.
Professional Program Highlights
The four-day training featured three insightful lectures that focused on key areas of communication and community building. Topics included the fundamentals of communication, effective strategies for social media engagement, and methods for reaching Generation Z and Alpha.
In addition, participants engaged in a comprehensive workshop program that encouraged the exchange of good practices through rapid-fire sessions, personal storytelling, and role-playing exercises. These activities emphasized the importance of problem-solving and crisis management, equipping attendees with practical tools to enhance their skills. Informal discussions between workshops allowed participants to share their experiences and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges in European higher education communication.
Leisure Activities for Community Building
To promote well-being and strengthen community bonds, the organizers arranged a city tour of Pécs' historical center. Participants enjoyed a walking tour and a ride on the Dotto train, experiencing the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
The program also included a visit to the University of Pécs’ winery in the Mecsek Hills. Participants learned about the university's viniculture, sampled premium wines, and enjoyed traditional Hungarian cuisine, enhancing their enjoyment of local culture.
Strengthening Community Ties
A charity initiative at Nevetnikék Alapítvány involved participants in toy-making and painting activities for sick children. This heartwarming experience not only brightened the day for the children but also fostered a sense of solidarity among the participants, reinforcing the idea that community building can create meaningful change. Together, they made lasting memories, emphasizing the importance of compassion and support in their collective journey.