A group of students and a lecturer from the Faculty of Education and Psychology of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa (FEP-UCP) travelled to Cluj-Napoca, in Romania, to take part in a Blended Intensive Programme (BIP). The initiative, which combined cultural exchange with scientific discussion, was marked by its focus on empathic communication in a global world and by debate on the strategic role of universities in today’s society.
The Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences at Babeș-Bolyai University hosted this intensive programme under the theme “Sustainable Communication: Building Meaningful, Empathic & Responsible Connections in a Globalised World”. The event formed part of the International Week “New European Trends in Psychology and Educational Sciences”, providing a platform for a strong representation from FEP-UCP, centred on the sharing of knowledge and the development of new academic and personal competences.
An enriching experience beyond the comfort zone
For the nine FEP-UCP students who took part in the mobility, the opportunity arose from a challenge issued by the Faculty. Dânia Moreira, one of the student participants, recalls that her interest was immediate, as the proposal sparked her curiosity, not only because of the chance to discover a new country and a different culture, but also due to the opportunity to take part in an international programme focused on such a relevant theme.
Over the course of an intensive week, the students followed a packed agenda of workshops, lectures, and more practical activities. Topics such as clear peer communication and self-awareness dominated the sessions, creating a space for exchange with young people from various nationalities.
“It was undoubtedly a deeply enriching experience, both academically and personally,” Dânia reflects. “I had the opportunity to develop and strengthen essential communication skills, not only as a future psychologist but also as a student and a citizen in an increasingly globalised context. This experience challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, adapt to new realities, and further value the richness of cultural diversity.”
Higher education as a strategic and safe space
FEP-UCP’s involvement in the event also extended to the teaching and institutional reflection levels. Raquel Matos, Dean of FEP-UCP, delivered the opening keynote at the “Education, Reflection and Development Conference”, on the topic “Higher Education as a Strategic Space: Reflection and Development in Contemporary Universities”.
The remarks by the Dean of FEP-UCP brought to the debate the crucial role of universities in a complex contemporary context marked by rapid technological acceleration, the normalisation of conflict scenarios, social polarisation, and growing inequalities. Drawing on national and international data on young people’s mental health, the lecturer highlighted that higher education must be understood as a central space for democratic and human development.
“Universities should take an active role in educating critical, ethical, and socially responsible citizens, promoting complex thinking, structured debate, and informed reflection,” Raquel Matos argued in her presentation, emphasising the pedagogical value of confronting ideas and intellectual discomfort as well, provided these moments take place within safe academic environments.
“Don’t think twice before embarking on an international mobility experience”
The outcomes of this week of international immersion are reflected in memories, networks, and enhanced competences for the students’ future professional paths. In light of the initiative’s impact, the message left by participants to their FEP-UCP peers considering a mobility experience is clear and strong.
“Don’t think twice before embarking on this experience. Taking part in an international mobility programme is a unique opportunity for growth,” Dânia encourages, stressing that such programmes foster autonomy, flexibility, and the creation of lasting connections. “Make the most of these opportunities provided by FEP-UCP, because the memories, knowledge, and experiences gained will stay with you for life.”
This learning journey and institutional representation of FEP-UCP at Babeș-Bolyai University took place between 18 and 22 May 2026, with the Dean’s intervention occurring on 21 May.
What is a Blended Intensive Programme?
A Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) is an initiative of the Erasmus+ programme that brings together at least three higher education institutions to develop a short, multidisciplinary, and international course focused on innovative teaching and learning strategies.
With a hybrid format that combines online and in-person learning, it allows students to gain an international experience without the need for extended travel. Its interdisciplinary approach and strong practical component make this programme essential for developing skills in innovation, collaboration, and adaptation to multicultural contexts.
