In October 2024, the coordinators of SocNet98, a collaborative network of 17 European universities dedicated to advancing the field of social work education, convened in Helsinki, Finland, for their annual coordinators’ meeting. This meeting was not only an opportunity to discuss the upcoming International University Week (IUW) 2025 but also a platform to explore broader developments within the network, including funding opportunities through Erasmus+ grants and plans for further cooperation among members.

Focus on International University Week 2025

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the themes and logistics for International University Week 2025, which will be hosted by four institutions across Europe:

• University of South-Eastern Norway (Porsgrunn, Norway)
• St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences (St. Pölten, Austria)
• City University of Applied Sciences (Bremen, Germany)
• Constantine the Philosopher University (Nitra, Slovakia)

Each host university introduced the specific focus areas for their IUW events, with topics ranging from Activities in Social Work in Norway to Social Work and Sustainability in Germany, and Clinical Social Work in Slovakia. The theme in Austria will center around Participation and Service User Involvement.

One of the key outcomes from this discussion was ensuring that students attending IUW would not only benefit from academic and professional insights but also engage in cross-cultural exchanges, thus embodying the SocNet98 motto: “Students meeting students.”

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SocNet98 Development

In addition to the IUW discussions, the coordinators focused on how to further strengthen and expand the SocNet98 network. The group explored the potential for new universities to join the network, enhancing the diversity of both the academic and cultural exchange opportunities.

Another topic was the need for exploring new online platforms to improve communication and collaboration among students and faculty members within the network. Both when it comes to arranging IUW’s but also how we need plafforms (MS Teams, google etc) that will help us communicate better as an international team. This initiative aligns with the ongoing efforts to modernize SocNet98 and provide more flexible, accessible learning environments across member universities.

Erasmus+ Grants and Future Collaboration

A major point of discussion was the exploration of Erasmus+ grants, which offer funding opportunities for student mobility and educational projects. These grants could provide financial support for students wishing to participate in IUW events and other exchange programs, but at the same time it some what can limit the visions we have for IUW as there is local HEIs guidelines for the use of the grants that for example can limit the number of students we can send each year. The group also discussed future collaborations between member universities, focusing on joint research projects and innovative educational initiatives that could benefit from Erasmus+ funding.

Looking Ahead

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepening cooperation within the SocNet98 network and exploring new projects that can enhance the student and academic experience. With the successful coordination of IUW 2025 well underway and the potential of Erasmus+ funding on the horizon, the future of SocNet98 looks bright.

We look forward to seeing the outcomes of this fruitful meeting and welcoming students to the upcoming International University Week events in 2025!

For more information about SocNet98, visit our About Us page.