The Student Advisory Services in collaboration with the SEA-EU Office has recently organised a staff week with several European Universities. This staff week involved student advisors from 6 different Universities (University of Algarve, University of Gdansk, University of Kiel, University of Split, University of Western Brittany and the University of Malta), with a primary objective to create a platform for sharing best practices, brainstorming innovative ideas, and strengthening collaborative ties in the field of career guidance.
The Programme was launched by Prof. Alan Deidun, Rector's Delegate for SEA-EU who introduced the programme. Sessions included presentations by Prof. Manwel Debono and Prof. Godfrey Baldacchino who gave an insight of both local and international labour market trends, as well as to the training realities of Career Guidance Practitioners in Malta.
One of the main aims of the staff week was to explore the differences and commonalities across services offered by SEA-EU Student Advisory Offices. Student advisors from the different Universities engaged in discussions on effective building collaborative methods , learning perspectives on student support and job seeking services. These dialogues not only provided valuable insights but also ignited fresh perspectives on supporting and guiding students effectively.
Another significant aspect of the staff week was exploring various methods of guiding and supporting students. Participants discussed the importance of Academic Advising, Career Counselling, and Creating a Supporting Environment for Student Growth. Throughout the different sessions the Student Advisors covered topics about the evolving methods of education and the growing significance of online learning, with practical aspects on the online methods used. Student advisors exchanged experiences and best practices related to providing support and guidance in virtual environments. Discussions included the effective use of online tools, maintaining student engagement, and ensuring students receive the support service they need, even when they are not physically present on campus.
Participants also visited other institutions which offer student support services. During our visits to Jobs Plus and Price Waterhouse Cooper (PWC) one could understand better the links between the world of employment and UM. Topics that were discussed included different advising models, available resources, and students’/ graduates support structures.
The staff week went beyond the collaborative aim of all Universities through organising some cultural visits. Participants had the opportunity to visit the UM Valletta Campus where we were hosted during one of the days. A city tour of our capital Valletta was organised where everyone had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the capital’s architectural buildings, its rich history, art, and savoury Maltese cuisine.
The student advisors’ staff week was a great opportunity to foster meaningful discussions, innovative ideas, and create better connections between SEA-EU Universities. The sharing of best practices in student advising and insights into online student support have left a lasting impact on the participating universities. Furthermore, the cultural tours and visits to entities offering student support service enhanced the overall experience which promoted a spirit of collaboration and cooperation among student advisors. We hope that UM continues to foster such exchanges in order to ensure that the seeds of collaboration sown during this program continue to grow in the interest of our student.
