From July 1-5, 2024, a team from the Technical University of Moldova participated in a training mobility program at the University of Strasbourg (UNISTRA), France, under the Erasmus+ ICM project. The team included Oxana CIBOTARU, principal specialist in international programs at the International Cooperation Office; Valentina FRUNZE, specialist in international programs at the Erasmus+ Center; and Dr. Ana COZARI, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Food Technology. The international coordination was led by Jean-Claude MILLION, a professor at IUT Louis Pasteur, UNISTRA, and entrepreneur.
Opening of Mobility Week
The UTM team participated in a series of strategic meetings, informative sessions, and networking events. The week began with a meeting led by Camille FLORENTZ, head of the Department of Mobility outside Europe, who highlighted the university’s commitment to facilitating international mobility beyond the European Union. This was followed by a campus tour conducted by Julia LAFFITTE-LOUISOU and Mareva ZAÏM-SASSI, which provided an overview of the faculties and the academic environment at UNISTRA. In the afternoon, the delegation met with Sandra REBEL, head of the European Mobility Department and Erasmus+ institutional coordinator, to discuss strategic initiatives and opportunities in Europe.
International Projects and Strategic Collaborations
The second day was dedicated to strategic international projects, featuring presentations by Camille DIEUDONNÉ, international project officer, and Chaïma MOHAMED, European project officer for MUNDUS. These presentations underscored the significance of collaborative research and educational initiatives, demonstrating how international projects foster knowledge development and improve educational processes.
At the end of the day, the UTM team participated in an interview discussing their personal perspectives and reflections on international cooperation efforts. Assisted by Ferid MUHAREMOVIC, communications officer, and Mareva ZAÏM-SASSI, ICM mobility officer, the discussions focused on the impact of international collaborations on academic and professional development, highlighting the benefits for both students and academic staff.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
On July 3, the focus shifted to the Department of International Cooperation. The team met with Angélique DANIEL and Emilie ROOS, international project and cooperation officers, to discuss strategies for strengthening global partnerships and collaboration initiatives. The discussions revolved around enhancing international relationships and expanding cooperation networks.
The program continued with a visit to the Studium Library, guided by Damien LAPLANCHE, head of the Training and Library Services Division. This visit provided an opportunity to explore the library’s resources and services, which offers considerable support for academic and research activities.
Later in the day, the team met with Gaëlle TALBOT, Deputy Director for International Relations and Head of the Department of International Reception, Support, and Promotion. Discussions centered on assistance for international students and promoting global collaboration. Talbot detailed UNISTRA’s initiatives to attract and aid international students, including orientation programs, academic and social support services, and cultural activities to help them integrate into the academic and social community in Strasbourg. The Deputy Director also highlighted the university’s ongoing efforts to create an inclusive and nurturing environment, contributing to the academic and personal success of all students, regardless of their origin.
Participation in the Erasmus+ KA2 RE-GRAD Project
On July 4, the UTM team joined the working group of the Erasmus+ KA2 RE-GRAD project, coordinated by UTM, to participate in a training session organized by European partners from Italy, France, and Romania, hosted by UNISTRA. The training sessions, held at the Faculty of Economics and Management and at IUT Louis Pasteur, covered topics on sustainable development in the academic environment.
Visit to the European Parliament
The mobility week concluded with an inspiring visit to the European Parliament, giving participants a unique chance to delve into the heart of the European decision-making process and gain insights into the institutions shaping the continent’s policies. The visit emphasized the importance of sustainability and other relevant areas for UTM’s academic activities and international cooperation efforts.
The institutional coordinator of the ERASMUS+ ICM project is Dr. Nina PUȚUNTEAN, Associate Professor and head of the International Relations Service. The project includes a total of 21 scholarships for students (internships and studies) and 15 scholarships for staff (training and teaching), to be implemented between 2024-2026. This mobility at UNISTRA was a valuable opportunity for strengthening international ties and developing new strategic collaborations.
