Erasmus Program for Teachers and Staff
January 2025
In January, we are sending our colleagues to exciting destinations, as demonstrated by the post below. We would also like to remind you that the additional call for STA (Staff Teaching Assignment) for teaching mobility (until January 31) for the summer semester of 2024 is still open. Colleagues, get inspired and travel!
The Erasmus+ Staff Mobility program, organized at the Polytechnic University of Leiria from January 13 to 17, 2025, was an excellent platform for professional development and international exchange of experiences. The central point of the program’s success was a series of well-structured workshops focusing on key topics at the intersection of education, technology, and societal values.
The program started with the workshop “AI and Cybersecurity in Higher Education: Challenges and Opportunities,” led by Professor Mário Antunes. This workshop provided participants with an in-depth analysis of integrating artificial intelligence into higher education while emphasizing the importance of robust cybersecurity measures. The discussion highlighted both the potential and the risks associated with using AI technologies in the academic environment.
The second significant workshop was “Using AI and Process Mining: Streamlining Bureaucratic Processes to Increase Efficiency,” led by Vice-Rector Professor Ricardo Martinho. This workshop explored innovative applications of artificial intelligence and process mining to optimize administrative processes. Participants gained practical insights into improving operational efficiency and eliminating barriers in processes, with a focus on real-world applications.
In the “Artificial Intelligence, EU Values, and Identity” workshop, Professor Mário Barata offered a thought-provoking discussion on the ethical and cultural dimensions of artificial intelligence. This workshop emphasized the importance of aligning technological innovations with the values of the European Union, promoting a balanced approach that emphasizes societal impact alongside technical progress.
The final workshop, “Data Analysis – Using AI Methods to Gain Insights from Data,” led by Professor Carlos Grilo, equipped participants with advanced data analysis methods. This practical workshop provided tools for extracting meaningful insights from complex data sets, which is an increasingly important skill in both academic and professional spheres.
The workshops were a clear testament to the program’s commitment to excellence, offering a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Participants benefited from an interdisciplinary approach that enhanced their ability to implement innovative solutions within their institutions. The collaborative and stimulating atmosphere also fostered the exchange of experiences and the building of international partnerships.
