Authors: Alina R., Leonie E., Leon S., Students at XU Exponential University of Applied Sciences

We all know the feeling of exclusion, of not being heard or understood.
In a world that grows increasingly interconnected, universities have the potential to become vibrant melting pots of diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. But fear not, for there is a beacon of hope. Universities all over the world have already started to transform into vibrant hubs of diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds. We as ‚United’ wholeheartedly recognize the paramount importance of inclusivity and are dedicated to fostering an environment where students from around the globe can thrive.
The ‘United’ which is an Erasmus+ co-funded project (Pr. No: 2022-2-DE02-KA210-VET-000092335) aims to break down linguistic and cultural barriers, empowering students to engage and learn from one another. By welcoming students from all over the world, this project cultivates an environment that encourages cross-cultural understanding, broadens perspectives, and fosters lifelong connections. We go beyond mere cultural celebrations and actively promote global collaboration among students. Collaborative projects allow students to work together on research, academic pursuits, and social initiatives, fostering cooperation and understanding while highlighting the critical role of diversity in addressing global challenges.
Moreover, ‘United’ organizes vibrant cultural celebrations that serve as platforms for students to share their rich traditions, cuisines, music, dance, and art with the entire university community. By celebrating diverse cultures, this project fosters a sense of belonging and mutual respect, cultivating an inclusive atmosphere where every student’s background is embraced and valued.
A significant step forward in creating a more inclusive environment is the development of the new blended training program ‘Inclusion and Diversity’. This program aims to equip students, staff, and stakeholders with the necessary knowledge and skills to embrace diversity and promote inclusivity on campus. It addresses various modules such as inclusive language, transition support, exam anxiety reduction, disability inclusion, creating inclusive classrooms, organizing campus events, diverse recruitment and hiring, and conflict resolution, and thereby comprehensively tackling all aspects of inclusivity.

Through the implementation of these modules, the ‘United’ project empowers individuals and nurtures a welcoming and supportive university environment. By promoting cultural understanding, providing accessible resources, and fostering diversity in recruitment and hiring practices, the project contributes to the holistic development of students and the growth of an inclusive campus community. Additionally, the emphasis on conflict resolution and addressing exclusionary behavior ensures that any barriers to inclusivity are promptly identified and resolved.
As the blended training program ‘Inclusion and Diversity’ is rolled out, students, staff, and stakeholders will have the opportunity to actively engage in creating a culture of acceptance, respect, and celebration of diversity. By embracing this program, the university community can work together to dismantle barriers, challenge biases, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and included.
The Erasmus+ co-funded project ‘United’, together with its blended training program, represents a significant stride towards fostering inclusivity and diversity in the university context. By prioritizing the needs and experiences of students from diverse backgrounds, this project creates an educational experience that prepares students for a globalized world and inspires them to become advocates for inclusivity beyond the university walls.
As the project continues to evolve and make a positive impact, it serves as an inspiration for other institutions and organizations to prioritize inclusivity and diversity in their own contexts.
Let us join hands and support this transformative initiative, working towards a future where inclusivity and diversity are celebrated, valued, and embedded in all aspects of education and society.
Join us in discovering the transformative impact of this project!

*Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.