• Online Intensive Training Contact hours: 25 hrs
• Duration: Summer Semester: 20 April – 29 June 2026

About the Programme

ACE-SCHOLAR — Foundation is a structured training programme open to students and staff from all disciplines. It provides practical skills, evidence-based tools, and collaborative learning opportunities to support participants in developing a strong research profile.

The curriculum covers 7 competency areas from the European Researcher Competency Framework (Foundation to Intermediate level), complemented by 3 additional topics selected by the ACE²-EU alliance. Together, they offer a coherent pathway towards research excellence.

Sessions are delivered online via Microsoft Teams by instructors from across the ACE²-EU partner institutions. All registered participants also have access to the Moodle platform, where session resources and recordings of missed sessions are available throughout the programme.

What you will develop

• Research management — project planning, resource optimisation, and open-access publishing.
• Research impact — dissemination strategies to engage policymakers, industry, and the public.
• Self-management — productivity, stress management, entrepreneurial thinking, and inclusive work practices.
• Cognitive skills — creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving for complex research challenges.
• Collaboration and leadership — inclusive teamwork, mentorship, and professional networking.
• Research tools — data management, citizen science, open-source software, and AI tools for ethical research.
• Research practice — scientific writing, disciplinary expertise, and AI integration.
• Research ethics — ethical principles, data protection, and responsible use of AI.
• Research funding — funding sources, resource management, and consortium building.
• Proposal writing — EU funding calls, proposal drafting, and alignment with societal challenges.

The Making Impact session is distributed through 5 smaller sessions from 20th April till 24th April. Exception of 20th April Session which will be held at 12:30 – 13:30 CEST, the remaining sessions will be conducted as scheduled.

Programme format and calendar

Session Calendar

Upon registration, all registrants will have access to all sessions.

Award and Recognition  

Upon successful completion of each session and its corresponding assessment, participants receive a digital skill badge (MLO — Micro Learning Opportunity). Collecting badges leads to formal ECTS recognition.

ACE-SCHOLAR Foundation awards Micro Learning Opportunities (MLOs) upon completion of each module. MLOs are designed to be compatible with emerging microcredential frameworks and are intended to be formally recognisable as microcredentials as the ACE²-EU alliance’s recognition infrastructure develops.

Important: Assessments must be submitted by 31 July 2026, 23:59 CEST to earn badges and ECTS credit.

Participants who successfully complete 5 or more sessions will be eligible for a travel opportunity to an ACE-SCHOLAR Researcher Capacity Training Workshop.

How to register

• Application deadline: 30 May 2026, 23:59 CEST (late registrants will still have access to the sessions starts on 20 April)
• Registration form: https://forms.gle/WWjkh7pKADLdKm5R6
• After registering you will receive an email with access to the Moodle course.
• Further information and inquiries: info.ariesincubator@e-ucb.ro

Duration and Timeline:

• Course components and contact hours: 10 hrs synchronous online, 25 hrs on-site + 45 hrs independent and group work
• Online component: 15–26 June 2026 (Warsaw: Central European Time (CET) UTC+2h)
• On-site component: 06–10 July 2026, it will take place: Gdańsk (Poland)
• Follow-up / reflection: 16 of July 2026 (online)

Award, Credits and Certification

On successful completion of the course participants will receive 3 ECTS credits and a certificate of attendance

Organised by:

Medical University of Gdańsk (Poland) Lead and Host Institution

Anna Hering, PhD, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Lecturers: Justyna Stefanowicz-Hajduk, Pharm.D. MUG, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, Aniela Brzezińska, MSc, Psychologist, Doctoral Researcher

LIK (Lithuania)

Sandra Saunoriūtė, PhD, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (Austria)

Rudolf Markt, PhD, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

External stakeholders that will be involved in the course:

Primary school nr 3 in Gdańsk (Poland)

Primary school nr 5 in Bytów (Poland)

Gestor – management and administration of real estate – housing communities in Gdańsk (Poland)

Which students would find this course useful?

This course may be suitable for students from ACE²-EU partner universities enrolled in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in the following fields:

• • Environmental and public health,
  • Food science and engineering,
  • Dietetics and sports,
  • Environmental sciences,
  • Chemical sciences, biotechnology, pharmacy, medicine

This course may be suitable for those who have an interest in:

• • urban plants and their safety,
  • healthy environment and well-being.
• Recommended Language Level:
  • Intermediate level of English (B1), as the working language will be English

Application Process:

Interested applicants should

Apply here: https://forms.gle/xCYvysNpaaXy6Qoq8

Deadline for receipt of applications: 15 May 2026

Course Description and Learning Objectives

This course explores the role of flower meadows in urban environments and how they shape our well-being, mental health, and the surrounding ecosystem. You will discover how flowers contribute to human health and environmental sustainability, and learn about sustainable cultivation practices, plant types and composition, and how changes in plant populations affect the soil. By connecting botany, microbiology, and urban planning, the course shows why bringing more flowers into our cities matters — for people, for nature, and for the health of the whole ecosystem.

Course Description:

• Online sessions: Online lectures introduce the key concepts of the course: plant diversity and climate change, and how the soil ecosystem changes when native plants are replaced. Sessions include group discussions and preparatory readings. Dates: 15– 26 June 2026.
• On-site sessions: A five-day intensive programme combining workshops, field activities, and laboratory experiments. You will work directly with local stakeholders to explore real-world challenges and develop practical solutions. Dates: 06–10 July 2026 in Gdańsk (Poland).
• Psychology of Nature session (led by Aniela Brzezińska, MUG): a lecture on how flower meadows and green urban spaces affect psychological well-being, covering concepts such as eco-anxiety, restorative environments, and the mental health benefits of biodiversity. The session is followed by a guided mindfulness walk in a local park, giving students a structured, experiential practice for connecting with nature intentionally.
• Follow-up / reflection: Online group presentations of lab reports and advertising campaigns, followed by a shared reflection space to discuss insights and takeaways from the course. Date: 16 July 2026 (online)

Specific learning objectives include:

• Understand the impact of climate change on the environment and oxidative stress
• Learn about sustainable urban planning practices and biodiversity
• Learn how to relax the body and mind in nature
• Become familiar with plants and how they can influence our well-being
• Explore the impact of plants on human cells (in vitro research)

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

1. Remember & understand – the principles of introducing flower meadows into urban areas to support biodiversity, and their impact on the environment, on human health, and on oxidative stress in the body.
   • Teaching methods: Lectures, guest talks.
   • Assessment: Short quizzes, reflection notes.
2. Apply – demonstrate how being surrounded by nature affects mood, attention span, and mental abilities, and learn how to relax in natural settings.
   • Teaching methods: Case studies, field visits, practical demonstrations.
   • Assessment: Field reports, group exercises.
3. Analyse – investigate the links between plants, insects, soil microorganisms, and human health outcomes.
   • Teaching methods: Data analysis workshops, literature reviews, group discussions. Lab classes (in-vitro research)
   • Assessment: Analytical essays, lab reports.
4. Evaluate – critically assess urban design and the role of nature in promoting health and sustainability, including how to address the lack of space for greenery in cities.
   • Teaching methods: Debates, critical reading sessions.
   • Assessment: Group presentations.
5. Create – propose evidence-based strategies to introduce greenery into urban spaces and strengthen biodiversity, helping to reduce oxidative stress and, as part of the work, design advertising campaigns to promote these ideas.
   • Teaching methods: Design thinking and practical workshops, lab classes.
   • Assessment: Group presentations.

Further Information

For any further information or queries related to the course, please contact:

E-mail: ace2eu@ufv.es

Application Process:

Interested applicants should

Apply here — https://forms.gle/1uzVcC43LvkPtNgq5

Deadline for receipt of applications: 29 May, 2026

Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee a place on the programme. Participating institutions apply their own internal selection procedures.

Duration and Learning Format

Provide a clear overview of the course structure, including:

• The total workload is 75 hours, broken down as follows:
  • Synchronous online activities: 5 h
  • On-site (physical mobility) activities: 30 h
  • Independent and group work: 40 h
• Dates:
  • On-site component: 15-19 June, 2026, Ingolstadt, Germany
  • Online component: 9 & 16 July, 2026

Please note: Under Erasmus+ rules, the minimum on-site duration for a BIP is five days. Only administrative and teaching staff who attend the full on-site week (15–19 June 2026) will be counted as BIP participants. Lecturers attending for a shorter period are welcome to join but will not be registered as BIP participants.

Credits and Certification

Credits: 3 ECTS

Certification: participants will receive a certificate of attendance

Organising Institutions and Teaching Staff:

Lead and Host Institution

• Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt, Germany
• Anna-Lisa Klages, Sonja Bedington, Fiona Nimser-Büchner, Lara Schäfer

Partner Institutions

Francisco de Vitoria University (UFV), Spain

• Alma Vázquez Esteban

Medical University Gdansk (MUG), Poland

• Dawid Spychała, Karolina Derda

Course Overview

BIPs – short for “Blended Intensive Programmes” are Erasmus+ programmes that offer a unique opportunity to enhance international collaboration and develop innovative transnational learning formats while benefiting from dedicated Erasmus+ funding that supports travel, coordination, and innovative course design.

They create a flexible space to experiment with new pedagogical approaches, combining virtual collaboration with short, impactful in-person exchanges that energise both students and instructors. It is financed by Erasmus+ funding, allowing for organisational support (min. 4.000€) in addition to travel grants for participants.

Since BIPs are ‘new territory’ to several institutions within the ACE²-EU Alliance, the aim of this BIP is to train colleagues to become BIP experts. During the programme, we will provide you with insights regarding terms, conditions, and particularities of BIPs, thereby developing structures and processes to strategically embed BIPs into institutional developments.

This BIP addresses two target-groups:

• Administrative staff involved with coordinating, supporting, and facilitating BIPs within the ACE²-EU Alliance and
• Professors and scientific staff interested in developing a BIP in the areas of teaching, research, and/or entrepreneurship.

This is delivered as a single BIP structured in two phases, not as two parallel programmes. During the first part of the on-site week, the programme is dedicated to administrative staff, who take a deep dive into BIP coordination, evaluate best practices and develop a joint scheme for processes within the Alliance. In the second part, the programme moves into project-based learning: administrative staff put what they have learned into practice, while teaching staff receive a guided introduction to BIP development and work on potential BIP ideas to be taken further afterwards. Sessions on inclusive and diversity-sensitive BIP development, as well as inputs on communication, are open to all participants.

At the end of this course, you will know everything you need to know about how to organise and coordinate your own BIP. Participating lecturers will have used the opportunity to exchange ideas, work together in workshops to develop topics and content with colleagues from different Alliance institutions. In addition, we will have laid out a foundation for the strategic positioning of BIPs to foster teaching, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and vocational training within the ACE²-EU Alliance.

Learning Journey

This BIP is divided into four major parts:

1. Introduction and information (on site)
2. Best practices, adaptation, and integration (on site)
3. Exploration and structuring (on site)
4. Reflection and improvement (online)

For administrative staff: At the beginning of the course, participants will receive a conceptual introduction to and important information about BIPs. After having gained in-depth insights, they will develop processes and structures needed for the establishment of a workflow at their home institutions and within the Alliance. To do so, they will work with case studies to assess best practices and pitfalls with the organisation of BIPs.

For teaching staff: Lecturers will join the programme on Wednesday. They will receive a concise introduction to BIP structures and how to develop a BIP. Furthermore, they will learn about possibilities and potentials of integrating BIPs into their academic practice, before they will take a deep dive into developing their own BIP ideas.

Throughout the course, hands-on workshops will be accompanied by thematic inputs on topics such as the development of inclusive and diversity-sensitive teaching formats or target-group-oriented communication.

All content-related activities will be accompanied by exercises and socio-cultural events that foster a positive working atmosphere. Furthermore, social activities will allow for networking and thematic exploration.

During the online follow-up sessions, participants will reflect (9 July 2026) on post-on-site developments as well as focus on potentials for improvement (16 July 2026) of processes and developed structures.

Location: TH Ingolstadt

Date: 15-19 June (on-site), 9 & 16 July (online)

Learning Objectives

By the end of this Blended Intensive Programme, all participants will be able to independently plan, coordinate, and strategically position a BIP within the ACE²-EU Alliance — equipped with the knowledge, tools, and cross-institutional networks needed to make Erasmus+ funded BIPs a sustainable part of their academic and administrative practice within the ACE²-EU Alliance.

Specific learning objectives include:

By the end of the BIP, attending administrative staff will be able to:

• Explain the key terms, funding conditions, and structural requirements of Erasmus+ BIPs within the ACE²-EU Alliance context.
• Evaluate best practices and common pitfalls in BIP coordination by analysing real-world case studies.
• Implement sustainable administration processes for the integration of BIPs into institutional internationalisation strategies
• Design institution-specific workflows and coordination processes that enable the systematic organisation and support of BIPs at their home institution.
• Develop a strategic framework for embedding BIPs into their institution’s existing structures and the broader ACE²-EU Alliance strategy.
• Apply target-group-oriented communication strategies for the promotion of BIPs

By the end of the BIP, attending teaching staff will be able to:

• Assess how BIPs can be strategically integrated into their own academic practice across the areas of teaching, research, and/or entrepreneurship.
• Develop a concrete BIP concept in collaboration with colleagues from other ACE²-EU Alliance institutions, applying principles of inclusive and diversity-sensitive course design.
• Promote equity, diversity, and inclusion with their teaching
• Refine their BIP concept based on inclusion, diversity, and intersectionality dimensions

Learning Outcomes (By the end of the course, participants will be able to):

• Develop innovative and meaningful BIPs from theory to practice
• Implement sustainable administration processes
• Develop communication and promotional strategies to improve the visibility of BIPs
• Apply communication strategies to audiences from differing backgrounds
• Promote equity, diversity and inclusion in international teaching formats
• Collaborate effectively with international colleagues
• Translate institutional goals into practical implementation steps
• Contribute actively to future BIP development through networking, exchange of expertise, and Alliance-based cooperation

Who would find this course useful?

This course may be suitable for teaching and administrative staff from ACE²-EU partner universities in all fields.

This course may be suitable for those who have an interest in:

Learning how to plan, coordinate, implement, and develop Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs) within the ACE²-EU Alliance.

• Recommended Language Level:
  • English B2-C1

Prior to the start of the course, participants will receive a welcome email from the ACE²-EU Alliance with detailed instructions specific to the course.

Further Information

For any further information or queries related to the course, please contact:

Dr. Anna-Lisa Klages,  ace2eu@thi.de

• Moderator – Julia Marinaccio, Institutional Coordinator ACE²-EU at Carinthia University of Applied Sciences

• Introduction to the panelists

1. Christian Facchi is the Head of the Doctoral School at Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt, former member of the German Council for Science and Humanities (Wissenschaftsrat); member of several commissions for granting the institutional right for Doctoral degrees in Germany.
2. Markus Preissinger is the Head of the Research and memeber of the management board of Vorarlberg University of Applied Science, manager of the research expert network within RUN-EU.
3. Martin Waiguny is the Executive Director of Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, member of Fullbright Board Austria since 2023, Board member of Austrian Conference of Universities of Applied Sciences, member of expert panel for Higher Education Strategy 2024.
4. Frank van der Zwan-Scholtz is the Strategic advisor at the Dutch Association of Universities of Applied Sciences (Vereniging Hogescholen).

Who should attend

All the staff members and students interested in trends of Doctoral research in the Universities for Applied Sciences.

We look forward to welcoming you to this engaging Virtual Coffee session and to sharing ideas across borders and disciplines.

• Participation Prerequisite: Completion of min 5 modules of ACE-SCHOLAR Foundation
• When?: 16 – 18 June 2026
• Host: Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, Villach, Austria
• Organised by: ARIES Incubator
• Registration: https://forms.gle/WWjkh7pKADLdKm5R6
• Registration Deadline: 15 May 2026, 23:59 CET

About ACE-SCHOLAR

ACE-SCHOLAR — Researcher Capacity Development Workshop series  is a structured training programme open to students and staff from all disciplines. It provides practical skills, evidence-based tools, and collaborative learning opportunities to support participants in developing a strong research profile focusing on scientific dissemination.

Participants of the workshops should complete the ACE-SCHOLAR -Foundation online course before the workshop. The online training curriculum covers 7 competency areas from the European Researcher Competency Framework (Foundation to Intermediate level), complemented by 3 additional topics selected by the ACE²-EU Alliance. Together, they offer a coherent pathway towards research excellence. Learn more about the ACE-SCHOLAR Foundation Course here.

About the Workshop #1: “Research Ethics – Co-creation in Action”. The workshop at Carinthia University of Applied Sciences will be focusing on three days of interactive sessions—theoretical input, lab visits, group work, peer reflection, and pitch presentations—to develop skills in project planning, interdisciplinary collaboration, critical thinking, and participatory methods.

Who can apply?

This programme is open to:

• Students enrolled in postgraduate programmes at ACE²-EU partner universities.
• Academic and administrative staff from ACE²-EU partner universities.

Working language: English. A B1–B2 level is recommended to follow the sessions comfortably.

What you will develop

• Hands-On Ethical Research Skills: Learn how to design and conduct ethically sound research with human participants, ensuring your work meets the highest standards of integrity and responsibility.
• Interactive & Collaborative Learning: Engage in three days of dynamic on-site sessions, including lab visits, group work, and peer reflection, to sharpen your project planning and interdisciplinary teamwork skills.
• Cutting-Edge Topics: Explore emerging challenges in research, such as AI ethics, data protection, and equity, to stay ahead in an evolving scientific landscape.
• Practical Application: Apply participatory methods in real-world contexts, bridging theory and practice to create meaningful, socially relevant projects.
• Boost Your Research Profile: Gain confidence in articulating your learning and contributing to innovative research, enhancing your professional growth and impact.

Workshop Agenda

Completion of min 5 modules of ACE-SCHOLAR Foundation including the Research Ethics Module.

Further information and inquiries: info.ariesincubator@e-ucb.ro

fostering a sense of ownership and engagement among local stakeholders.

Ambassadors act as local, regional, national, international multipliers and advocates of the Alliance’s vision and objectives, enhancing its visibility, fostering a sense of ownership and engagement, and strengthening collaboration among students, staff, alumni, and external stakeholders.

The programme aims to:

• raise awareness of the ACE²-EU Alliance and its activities;
• support communication, dissemination, and engagement efforts;
• encourage intercultural and interinstitutional collaboration;
• nurture a shared sense of European identity and cooperation.

Eligibility

The programme is open to all members of the ACE²-EU institutions, including:

• students at all levels (undergraduate, master’s, doctoral);
• academic, research, administrative, and technical staff;
• alumni who remain engaged with their home institution;
• associated stakeholders who contribute to the ACE²-EU community.

Applicants should:

• demonstrate genuine interest in international collaboration and European education;
• possess strong communication and interpersonal skills;
• show initiative, creativity, and reliability;
• be motivated to represent both their institution and the Alliance.

Role and Responsibilities

As an ACEAmbassador, you will:

• represent the ACE²-EU Alliance within your institution and local networks;
• promote the Alliance’s activities, events, and opportunities among target audiences;
• create and share engaging communication materials (posts, visuals, short videos, articles, etc.) in line with our brand guidelines;
• take part in training sessions and coordination meetings (online or in person);
• collaborate with fellow Ambassadors on joint projects;
• contribute ideas to enhance community engagement and visibility.

• support the organisation of local ACE²-EU events such as ACE Days, ACETalks, or mobility fairs;
• act as a contact point for newcomers and participants in Alliance initiatives;
• co-develop proposals for local or international outreach campaigns.

Benefits and Recognition

Participation offers opportunities for:

• Networking: membership in a cross-institutional, international community of representatives and stakeholders;
• Professional development: growth in leadership, communication, and project management skills;
• Visibility: presentation on ACE²-EU platforms and official recognition as an Ambassador;
• Training and mentoring: access to development sessions in outreach, intercultural communication, and media engagement;
• Certification: an official Certificate of Participation and digital badge awarded upon successful completion of the programme;
• Recommendation: letters of reference for actively engaged Ambassadors upon request.

Duration and Commitment

Ambassadors are expected to:

• serve for a minimum period of twelve months;
• attend at least one training and one coordination meeting per semester;
• maintain regular communication with their institutional ACE²-EU contact person.

Selection and Appointment

Applications are submitted via the official ACEAmbassador Application Form, and each partner institution conducts its own internal selection process from the pool of applicants.

Each university is responsible for the selection and appointment of its local Ambassadors.

To ensure balanced and inclusive representation, each institution is expected to appoint a minimum of two (2) Ambassadors, including:

• at least one student representative, and
• at least one staff member or stakeholder (academic, administrative, alumni, or associated partner).

Institutions are encouraged to consider diversity of backgrounds, experience, and perspectives, and may appoint additional Ambassadors based on their capacity and level of engagement. Priority should be given to individuals who have not previously been involved in the alliance’s structures.

The call for Ambassadors remains open on a rolling basis, allowing institutions to onboard new representatives throughout the year as needed.

Selected candidates will:

• receive onboarding materials and guidance,
• be invited to introductory and coordination meetings,
• gain access to training opportunities supporting their role as Ambassadors.

As part of the programme’s development opportunities, selected Ambassadors will be invited to participate in international initiatives such as the ABC Fake News programme (October 2026), the Blended Intensive Programme (BIP), planned to take place in Romania in autumn 2026 and focused on topics such as communication, engagement, intercultural collaboration, and community building within the ACE²-EU Alliance, a further BIP scheduled for 2027, and a TEDx event planned for 2027.

How to Apply

Application Form: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/dZBzM7fWfh

Deadline: 26 June 2026

For further information, please contact your institutional ACE²-EU coordinator.

 Mission Description
The ACE²-EU Alliance invites academic staff to join the 9th ACEploration Mission – a transnational co-creation event designed to strengthen collaboration, develop joint learning opportunities, and connect education, research, and society.

This edition focuses on:
“Towards Circular Intelligence: Shaping the Future for Quality of Life”
with themes in AI & Technology, Sustainability, and Society.

 Key Dates:
• Pre-Briefing Meeting: 15 June 2026
• ACEploration Sessions (On-site, THI, Germany): 1–2 July 2026
• Post-Review Meeting: 24 July 2026

Participation Details:
• Each university nominates at least 2 academic staff members
• Participants should cover complementary expertise across the themes
• Full participation required (pre-briefing, on-site mission, and review meeting)

 What You’ll Do:
Co-design joint academic programmes across partner universities
Develop innovative teaching and learning initiatives
Collaborate with international academic peers
Engage with societal and industry challenges
Strengthen mobility and long-term institutional partnerships

 Deadline for nominations: 10 June 2026
Apply via: https://forms.gle/vUSLcQ5xp5Yjizmy7

Questions? Contact: Katherine.Roegner@thi.de

Download CALL FOR PAPERS

 Join us in shaping the future of collaborative education across Europe.

 Flavour School

 Location

University Constantin Brâncuşi (UCB). of Târgu Jiu (Romania).

Duration and Learning Format

Total workload: 25 hours (1 ECTS)

Breakdown:

• On-site activities: 20 hours
• Independent and group work (including follow-up reflection): 5 hours

On-site component:
6–10 July 2026
Târgu Jiu, Romania

(There is no online preparatory component.)

Credits and Certification

On successful completion of the course, participants will receive 1 ECTS credit and an official Certificate of Attendance.

Organising Institutions and Teaching Staff

Lead and Host Institution:

University Constantin Brâncuşi (UCB). of Târgu (Romania)

Oana Maria Păstae
Monica-Delia Bîcă
Camelia Plăstoi

Partner Institution:
Universidad Francisco de Vitoria (Spain)

Sonia García Merino

Julie Ann Marsden

External stakeholders that will be involved in the course:

• Marian Ancuta (youth worker)
• Luiza Mihaela Eacobescu (nutritionist)
• Colour your Dreams Association
• Be Teen Association
• Montan Club White Wolf, Baia de Fier NGO
• Local care centres
• Park Aventura Rânca

Course Overview

“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn

This interdisciplinary Flavour School aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to promote health, well-being, and quality of life in an ageing society. Grounded in real challenges from the local community, the course connects theory with practice, enabling students to interact directly with professionals in healthcare, social work, nutrition, education, and civil society who are engaged in promoting active and healthy ageing.Families, communities, and organisations need to support older adults by providing programmes, resources, and an environment that encourages physical, social, mental, and emotional well-being.

Participants will explore the concept of active ageing through multiple disciplinary perspectives – medical, psychological, social, cultural, environmental, and ethical. The course emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, intergenerational solidarity, and community-based approaches to supporting older adults. Learning activities will include interactive seminars, case studies, field visits to community organisations and care centres, participatory workshops, and collaborative project development.

The course is designed for students preparing for careers in public health, social work, psychology, education, urban and community development, cultural studies, and related fields. It encourages a holistic understanding of ageing as a dynamic process shaped by lifestyle, environment, and social engagement.

At the end of the programme, students will develop a team-based research or intervention project at their home universities, focusing on a topic related to active and healthy ageing—such as social inclusion, lifelong learning, age-friendly environments, or nutrition and physical activity for older adults. The results will be shared in a collective publication and may serve as a foundation for future international or European-funded collaborations. Students will also be invited to present their outcomes at academic and community forums within the Alliance network and beyond.

Learning Journey

On-site sessions (6–10 July 2026, Târgu Jiu, Romania)

Students will participate in:

• Interactive seminars on active and healthy ageing
• Practical workshops (nutrition, cognitive stimulation, social engagement)
• Field visits to community organisations and care centres
• Stakeholder-led sessions and intergenerational activities
• Collaborative group work addressing real-life community challenges

The emphasis is on experiential learning and interdisciplinary teamwork.

Follow-up / Reflection

After the on-site week, students will complete an individual reflection task, developing a short Personal Wellness and Active Ageing Plan inspired by the course experience.

This activity consolidates learning and encourages students to apply course principles within their own context.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

• Increase awareness of biological, psychological, social, and environmental determinants of healthy ageing
• Develop interdisciplinary perspectives on promoting active ageing
• Strengthen empathy, intercultural sensitivity, and communication skills
• Reflect critically on ethical and societal dimensions of ageing
• Apply knowledge through practical community-based learning

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the course, students will be able to:
• Analyse determinants of health and well-being in older adulthood
• Identify interdisciplinary approaches to promoting active ageing
• Demonstrate effective and empathetic communication with older adults
• Collaborate in diverse teams to propose context-sensitive solutions
• Reflect critically on ethical issues related to dignity, autonomy, and inclusion

Participation and Engagement

Active participation is essential for experiential, community-oriented learning. Students are expected to:

• Attend all on-site sessions (minimum 80% attendance required to receive credits).
• Engage fully in practical workshops, field visits, and stakeholder-led activities.
• Demonstrate respectful, empathetic, and ethical interaction with older adults, community members, and peers.
• Contribute meaningfully to group discussions, case studies, and collaborative exercises showing openness and willingness to step outside one’s disciplinary comfort zone.

Which students would find this course useful for them?

This course may be suitable for students from ACE²-EU partner universities (5 students per university) enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate programmes in the following fields:

• Public Health
• Education and Social Sciences
• Psychology
• Communication Sciences
• Social Sciences
• Medicine, Nursing, or Allied Health
• Sports and Physical Education
• Kinesiotherapy
• Science
• Art
• Students motivated to learn more about health promotion and well-being.

It is particularly relevant for students interested in:

• Health promotion and well-being
• Intergenerational solidarity
• Community engagement
• Social innovation
• Human dignity and inclusion 

Recommended Language Level

• Basic to intermediate level of English (B1-B2), as the working language will be English

Application Process

Apply here:
https://forms.gle/eX5MFdDLn5T9AT5U6

Application deadline: 20 April 2026

Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee a place. Participating institutions apply their own internal selection procedures.

Further Information

For any further information or queries related to the course, please contact: oanapastae@gmail.com

• Flavour School

What is a Flavour School?

A Flavour School is a short, intensive on-site course within the ACE²-EU Alliance that offers students focused exposure to a specific topic or field of study.

Delivered over a few days, it combines practical activities, academic input and intercultural teamwork, allowing participants to gain new knowledge, develop transferable skills and experience international collaboration in an immersive learning environment.

Duration and Learning Format

• Total workload: approximately 28–30 hours

Breakdown:

• On-site (physical mobility) component: approximately 28 hours
  • Practical workshops and outdoor leisure activities
  • First aid and safety training sessions
  • Group-based experiential activities
  • Guided reflection sessions

• On-site dates: 6–10 July 2026 – Constantin Brancusi University (UCB), Târgu Jiu, Romania

Credits and Certification

On successful completion of the course participants will receive 1 ECTS credit and a certificate of attendance

Organising Institutions and Teaching Staff:

Lead and Host Institution

Constantin Brancusi University of Târgu Jiu (Romania)

Teaching Staff:

• Plăstoi Camelia-Daniela (UCB)
• Păstae Oana-Maria (UCB

Partner Institution

Teaching Staff:

• Julie Ann Marsden (UFV)

External stakeholders

The course will involve collaboration with:

• Local emergency medical professionals and first aid specialists
• Regional outdoor and recreational sports associations
• Community organisations promoting healthy lifestyles
• Local NGOs engaged in youth and volunteer initiatives

Their role will focus on delivering practical workshops, applied demonstrations, and community-oriented learning experiences.

Course Overview

This programme is designed for university students and aims to promote an active, responsible and sustainable lifestyle in response to contemporary societal challenges such as physical inactivity, stress and unhealthy behavioural patterns.

The course integrates recreational leisure sports activities adapted to participants’ level of physical preparedness with structured educational components focused on safety, prevention and responsibility.

Practical sessions are complemented by:

• Applied first aid training centred on injury prevention and emergency response
• Theoretical input on the physiological and psychological benefits of physical activity
• Reflection on personal responsibility in outdoor and leisure sport contexts
• Introductory concepts related to resilience, self-management and initiative-building, including perspectives on developing independent or entrepreneurial activity in the field of health and recreation

By alternating experiential practice with structured reflection, students develop motor, social and attitudinal competences essential for sustaining a healthy lifestyle in the long term.

Learning Journey
On-site sessions (6 – 10 July 2026, UCB, Romania):

Participants will engage in:

• Outdoor leisure sports activities (individual and team-based formats)
• Safety awareness and risk-prevention sessions
• Practical first aid workshops
• Community engagement and volunteer activities
• Facilitated reflection sessions
• Cooperative challenges designed to strengthen resilience and responsibility

The learning approach emphasises:

• Learning through experience
• Collaborative problem-solving
• Personal accountability and adherence to safety standards
• Civic engagement and social responsibility

Stakeholder-led sessions will include hands-on workshops, supervised practice and collaborative community projects encouraging active participation and responsible conduct.

Follow-up / reflection:

At the conclusion of the programme, participants will submit an individual reflective report summarising:

• Their practical and theoretical learning experiences
• The knowledge and skills acquired
• Their personal development
• Strategies for applying the learning outcomes to sustain a healthy and active lifestyle

Learning Objectives

The course aims to:

• Develop awareness of the health, social and psychological benefits of regular physical activity
• Strengthen safe practice in leisure sports environments
• Foster resilience and responsible decision-making
• Enhance teamwork and community engagement competences

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

Demonstrate safe and responsible participation in leisure sports activities
Apply basic first aid principles in simulated risk situations
Reflect critically on their personal learning and development
Collaborate effectively in team-based and community-focused projects
Design practical strategies to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle

Which students would find this course useful for them?

This course is suitable for students from ACE²-EU partner universities enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate programmes in:

• Sports Science / Physical Education
• Kinesiotherapy
• Health Sciences
• Humanities
• Social Sciences

It is particularly appropriate for students interested in:

• Leisure and recreational sports
• Health promotion
• Outdoor education
• Personal development
• Community engagement

Recommended Language Level

• • English B1–B2

This is mandatory, as English is the working language of ACE²-EU courses.

Application Process:

Interested applicants should

Apply here: https://forms.gle/Q4V92qb22pVUsh8C8

Application deadline: 30 April 2026

Successful applicants will receive confirmation from the host institution. Prior to the start of the course, participants will receive a welcome email from the ACE²-EU Alliance containing detailed logistical and academic information.

Further Information

For any further information or queries related to the course, please contact:

Email: cami_plastoi@yahoo.com

• Certificate of attendance included: Yes
• Narrative Proposal:

The ACE²-EU ARIES Incubator invites researchers, innovators, and cross-disciplinary teams from our Alliance to submit project proposals focused on “Cybersecurity & Digital Sovereignty”.

This call is designed to foster collaborative, high-impact initiatives that address the evolving challenges and opportunities in digital security, data autonomy, and technological independence.

We are specifically looking for proposals that:

• Align with future funding calls (submission deadlines after August 2026).
• Leverage the expertise and resources of the ACE²-EU Alliance.
• Contribute to EU priorities in cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and sovereign technologies.

About Thematic Focus: Cybersecurity & Digital Sovereignty

In an era of rapid digital transformation, cybersecurity and digital sovereignty are critical to ensuring trust, resilience, and autonomy in our digital ecosystems. We welcome proposals that explore (but are not limited to) the following areas:

• Secure Digital Infrastructures: Innovations in encryption, blockchain, and decentralised systems to protect data integrity and privacy.
• Sovereign Cloud & Data Solutions: Developing EU-based alternatives for cloud computing, data storage, and processing.
• AI & Cybersecurity: Using artificial intelligence to enhance threat detection, response, and digital trust.
• Critical Infrastructure Protection: Safeguarding energy, healthcare, and transportation systems from cyber threats.
• Digital Identity & Authentication: Advancing secure, user-centric identity management solutions.
• Policy & Governance Frameworks: Research to inform EU policies on digital sovereignty, compliance, and ethical standards.
• Education & Awareness: Initiatives to build cybersecurity literacy and skills across sectors.

Why Submit a Proposal?

• Access to a Collaborative Network: Connect with researchers, industry partners, and policymakers across the ACE²-EU Alliance.
• Support for Proposal Development: Receive guidance on aligning your project with EU funding priorities (e.g., Horizon Europe, Digital Europe Programme).
• Visibility & Impact: Showcase your work within the Alliance and beyond, contributing to a safer, more sovereign digital future.

Who Can Apply

• Researchers and academics from ACE²-EU partner universities.
• Industry partners, startups, and SMEs collaborating with Alliance members.
• Cross-disciplinary teams combining technical, legal, social, or policy expertise.
• Early-career researchers with innovative ideas

Your Journey Through the Process

1. Submit your proposal: Share your innovative idea with us by submitting the two-page document via the registration link. https://forms.gle/iCBVNE8hzsTMW5fi8
   1. The two-pager document should include, Project title and thematic alignment (Cybersecurity & Digital Sovereignty); Objectives and expected impact; Partners involved (or expertise you’re seeking); Target funding call (if known) and timeline. The template is provided in the registration form.
   2. Deadline for Registration: 15 of April 2026, 23:59 CET
2. Matchmaking meeting: Meet the researchers and collaborators from the Alliance partners that are interested in contributing to the project.
   1. Date: 22 April 2026
   2. Time: 16:00 (Romanian Time)
   3. Meeting link: will be shared as a calendar invitation once you have registered.
3. Attend the On-site Workshop in Romania: Meet your collaborators in-person and get to develop the proposal, receive feedback, and get support from experts.
   1. Dates: 6 – 8 July 2026
   2. Host: Constantin Brâncuși University, Târgu Jiu, Romania

For enquiries please reach out to info.ariesincubator@e-ucb.ro

Let’s Build the Future—Together!

Cybersecurity and digital sovereignty are not just technical challenges—they’re societal imperatives. By collaborating across disciplines and borders, we can create solutions that empower individuals, organisations, and governments to thrive in a secure digital world.