BIP: Towards a smart and sustainable world

Are you passionate about sustainability and innovation? Or do you want to learn more about the movement towards a smarter, greener future? Then mark your calendars for our International Exchange Week, where we will explore the theme: "Towards a Smart and Sustainable World." Throughout the week, we will host a series of inspiring talks by experts from around the world from both industry or academia. They will share their insights and experiences in the fields of sustainability and modern technology. Furthermore, you will have the chance to go on a unique journey to improve your knowledge on recent trends in sustainability. It is expected that you participate actively in discussions and workshops to exchange your thoughts with experts or students from abroad!

We are thrilled to welcome you to our International Exchange Week, a dynamic event dedicated to exploring our journey Towards a Smart and Sustainable World. This week promises to be an inspiring opportunity filled with insightful lectures, engaging discussions, and invaluable networking opportunities. We expect that participants join this week actively since only when we act together, a difference can be made!

Throughout the week, you’ll have the chance to learn from distinguished international partners: researchers or academics, who are at the forefront of innovation in smart technologies and sustainability by research; as well as industry, their expertise and global perspectives will provide you with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face in creating a sustainable future. Let’s discuss together with these experts to go one step closer towards more sustainability!

Join us as we come together to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and collaborate on solutions that will drive us towards a smarter, more sustainable world. Let’s make this week a memorable and impactful experience for everyone involved.

Welcome, and let’s get started on this exciting journey!

Why Attend?

Learn from the Best: Gain knowledge from leading professionals and academics who are at the forefront of sustainability and technological innovation.
Network Globally: Connect with like-minded international students and professionals who share your passion for making a positive impact.
Be Inspired: Discover cutting-edge research and innovative solutions that are driving the transition to a sustainable future.
Highlights of the Week:
- Lectures: Hear from industry leaders and academics about the latest trends and breakthroughs.
- Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on sessions to develop practical skills, knowledge and connection with other international students.
- Panel Discussions: Engage in thought-provoking conversations about the challenges and opportunities in sustainability and technology.

Let's innovate, inspire, and impact the future - one step at a time. See you there!

The social activities were the highlight of the programme! They provided a unique space to bond with students from diverse backgrounds.”

Before you set foot in Belgium, the adventure begins with our engaging online "Take off" phase. You will receive a virtual assignment to kickstart your exploration and dive into the world of sustainability.

You will explore your personal growth in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and calculate and reflect upon the ecological footprint of both yourself and your home country. You will use this information to introduce yourself to your project team and initiate discussions about the assignment.

Once you arrive in Belgium for our International Week on our campus in Diepenbeek, you will engage in a dynamic programme, featuring:

Inspirational lectures that shed light on the week's theme.
Collaborative project work with your international multidisciplinary team, focusing on selected case studies.
A grand finale with team presentations of your project work.

But the journey doesn't end there! After your stay in Belgium, we guide you through the reflective "Off-boarding" phase, in which you self-reflect on the invaluable insights you gained from your experience. You will engage in a team discussion, building upon the foundation laid during the "Take off" assignment. Finally you polish and upload your team's presentation, encapsulating your sustainability journey and lessons learned.

During the week we organize several relaxing and social activities to help you connect with your fellow students: campus tour, city game, cultural visit, Belgian evening with typical dishes…

Exploring the Jenever Museum in Hasselt showcased the rich history and culture of the region.

17 – 21 March 2025 (timing CET)

January 12th 2025

Students with Erasmus BIP grant and UCLL students: free
Students without Erasmus grant: 100 EUR registration fee (accommodation not included)

UCLL Campus Diepenbeek
Agoralaan, building B
3590 Diepenbeek
Belgium

Participants are free to book their own accommodation (at their own expense). We can recommend the Youth Hostel or Yup Hotel.

Students (2nd and 3rd-year Bachelor students, 1st-year Master students), lecturers and researchers from all disciplines.

Need more details? Our coordinator Greg Quintens is happy to help you.

Working alongside students from diverse backgrounds pushed me out of my comfort zone. The collaboration challenged us to think critically and explore new perspectives. This experience has definitely broadened my horizons.