Arqus Alliance Staff Strengthen Collaboration at Training in Poland

Staff members from across the Arqus Alliance universities gathered in Wroclaw, Poland for a three‑day training funded by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA), using the opportunity to deepen cooperation and reflect on the communication challenges that arise in a diverse, international academic network.

Throughout the workshops, participants explored how cultural differences shape everyday interactions and decision‑making within cross‑border teams. By engaging with established communication models and practical frameworks, they examined how misunderstandings emerge, how feedback can be delivered constructively, and how to navigate the nuances of global academic environments. These shared reflections helped participants recognise not only the richness of perspectives within the alliance but also the common obstacles they face when working across languages, disciplines, and institutional cultures.

Hands‑on activities encouraged staff to translate theory into practice, experimenting with new approaches to communication, active listening, and virtual collaboration. Discussions often circled back to the realities of hybrid work: how to stay present in online meetings, how to maintain clarity across digital channels, and how to manage the fatigue that comes with constant connectivity. These conversations highlighted a collective desire to build healthier, more sustainable working habits across the alliance.

The training concluded with a shared reflection on how Arqus members can continue supporting one another as they navigate the complexities of international cooperation. Participants left with a stronger sense of community, a clearer understanding of the challenges they face together, and a renewed commitment to fostering open, empathetic communication across the alliance.