The objective of the meeting, which is being held in conjunction with the gathering of international coordinators, is to enhance the strategy and development of intensive programmes

The Universitat Rovira i Virgili is currently hosting two key events of the Aurora Alliance. The Workshop on Blended Intensive Programmes (BIP) takes place on 18 and 19 March, bringing together around thirty international relations officers, mobility and communication experts, and institutional coordinators from all Aurora universities.

The workshop was inaugurated by the rector of the URV, Josep Pallarès, who welcomed the participants. The WP8 Enabling Mobility and Exchange working group, led by Marina Vives from the URV’s International Centre, is coordinating the event in collaboration with the central office of the alliance. The main goal is to enhance the strategy and development of BIPs within Aurora.

The programme includes sessions on BIP strategy within the Aurora Alliance, a critical review of current challenges, and a discussion of the handbook developed. In addition, several debate sessions are being held to reflect on key aspects of BIPs, such as types of collaboration, the competences that they can involve, and issues such as diversity and inclusion.

Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs) are short-term intensive initiatives that apply innovative teaching and learning methods, some of which include online cooperation. These programmes may incorporate challenge-based learning, where transnational and transdisciplinary teams work together to address challenges, such as those linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals or other social issues identified by regions, cities or companies. By enabling new and more flexible mobility formats that combine physical mobility with a virtual component, BIPs aim to reach all kinds of students, regardless of their background, field of study or academic level.

This gathering is followed by the Meeting of Institutional Coordinators of the Aurora Alliance, which will take place from 19-20 March. The agenda includes sessions on strategic planning, the impact and future of Aurora, and the development of digital services. The presence of Ramon Puras, president of the alliance, highlights the importance of these sessions for the advancement of Aurora 2030.

Aurora is a consortium of research-intensive universities committed to the social impact of their actions and closely engaged with their local communities. Aurora began its activities in 2016 with the overarching vision of driving social change through academic and research excellence. Other key priorities of Aurora include promoting diversity and inclusion, as well as empowering students to lead innovation in teaching and learning. The URV joined the network in 2019.