The needs we want to address

The partnership has identified several needs that can be addressed by developing a training program on EDI using applied design thinking, including:

1. The need for greater awareness and understanding of EDI issues: In many European universities, including the partnership, there may be a lack of awareness or understanding of EDI issues or a lack of effective strategies for addressing them. This project can help to fill this gap by providing a comprehensive training program that addresses EDI issues in a practical and applicable way.

2. The need for innovative teaching and learning practices: Traditional teaching methods may not always be effective for promoting EDI, or for engaging students from diverse backgrounds. By using applied design thinking, the program can promote innovative teaching and learning practices that are more effective for engaging and empowering students. 

3. The need for a more inclusive higher education system: Many European universities may struggle with issues related to inclusion, such as low retention rates or unequal access to educational opportunities. This project can help to address these issues by promoting EDI and creating a more welcoming and inclusive learning environment for all.

4. The need for cross-disciplinary collaboration: Addressing EDI issues requires a collaborative approach that involves experts from different fields and disciplines. This project can promote cross-disciplinary collaboration by involving multiple European universities and providing opportunities for networking and knowledge-sharing.

By promoting a more comprehensive and effective approach to EDI, this project can help to create a more equitable and sustainable higher education system in Europe. Furthermore, it is important for universities to have the same EDI principles in relation to student and staff exchanges for several reasons:

1. Consistency: Having the same EDI principles across all universities ensures that students and staff can expect a consistent level of support and understanding regardless of where they are studying or working.

2. Equity: Consistent EDI principles can help to ensure that all students and staff have equal access to opportunities and resources, regardless of their background or identity.

3. Inclusion: EDI principles can help to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all students and staff, promoting a sense of belonging and community.

4. Safety: Consistent EDI principles can help to ensure that students and staff feel safe and supported in all university environments, regardless of the country or institution.

5. Internationalisation: By promoting consistent EDI principles, universities can facilitate internationalisation and promote global citizenship by creating an inclusive environment for students and staff from different cultural backgrounds.

Overall, having the same EDI principles across universities can help to create a more equitable, inclusive, and welcoming environment.