Summer School "Building Sustainable Economies after the Crisis"

In a good testament to the power of academic collaboration and a commitment to addressing real-world challenges, a recent summer school program, "Building Sustainable Economies after the Crisis," was executed with precision and determination. This initiative, organized in collaboration with the National Technical University "Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute" (NTU KhPI), brought together students from diverse backgrounds for a unique educational experience.

A Noble Aim - Challenge-Based Learning (CBL)

The primary aim of this summer school was to implement a Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) approach, with a specific focus on addressing practical issues. Underpinning the program was a commitment to emphasize soft skills and critical thinking, vital in preparing students for the modern world. At its core, the summer school tackled the formidable task of post-war reconstruction in Ukraine, a theme that resonated with the global community.

Exploring Real-Life Challenges

During the duration of the program, students were engaged with a series of pivotal challenges, each designed to stimulate innovative thinking and actionable solutions:

• Kharkiv's Sustainable Energy Future: Participants were tasked with devising an action plan for the promotion of renewable energy leadership, acknowledging the importance of sustainable energy solutions.
• Circular Economy for Ukraine: Waste management and the concept of a circular economy were explored in-depth, with students delving into innovative solutions for a greener Ukraine.
• Sustainable University: As education continues to evolve, students worked on the design of universities that offer comprehensive and sustainable educational experiences.
• MNCs' Role in Rebuilding Ukraine: Recognizing the significant role of multinational corporations in the reconstruction process, students formulated strategies for their engagement in this critical task.

A Successful Journey

The summer school proved to be a remarkable success, with participants benefitting from the wisdom and insights of esteemed educators. Students were actively engaged in discussions, workshops, and the creation of innovative solutions to address tangible, real-world problems. The practical focus of the program facilitated a meaningful exchange of ideas and a unique learning experience.

A Global Perspective

One of the standout features of this academic initiative was the international diversity of the participants. Ukrainian students, majoring in International Business, joined the program from various regions, including Kharkiv and Dnepr. Their German counterparts, majoring in International Business and Management, as well as International Relations, represented Kleve. This rich blend of perspectives and experiences greatly enriched the discussions and solutions generated during the program.

The Road Ahead

The impact of this summer school is expected to extend well beyond the program's conclusion. Notably, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the startup centers, StartGlocal at HSRW, and SPARK at NTU KhPI. This collaboration builds on the general agreement signed between the universities a few months prior, creating a strong foundation for ongoing cooperation and knowledge exchange.

In conclusion, this summer school experience is a testament to the possibilities that arise when academia transcends geographical boundaries. It demonstrates the dedication of both students and educators to addressing real-world challenges and forging meaningful connections. Sincere appreciation is extended to all participants, the hosting institutions, and dedicated colleagues from the faculty and administration, who played an instrumental role in making this intercontinental academic journey possible.