The initiative brought together students and researchers from Arqus partner universities as well as NGO practitioners in a collaborative learning environment focused on storytelling as a tool for social engagement and dialogue. Storytelling was explored as an analytical and reflective framework that enables the interpretation of experiences of marginalised communities, the questioning of dominant narratives and the fostering of empathy across cultural and institutional boundaries. By connecting NGOs working directly with vulnerable groups with Arqus partner universities, the initiative created a two-stage platform for translating lived experiences into academic reflection and transnational exchange.
Hosted in Wrocław, the initiative combined collaborative workshops, field meetings and co-creation activities. Through these formats, participants developed innovative storytelling-based approaches applicable to academic research, education and social advocacy. Students played a central role in the process, contributing their own perspectives, engaging in storytelling practices and critically reflecting on issues of social exclusion, migration and uncertainty in contemporary Europe. The non-hierarchical format fostered openness, creativity and peer-to-peer learning, encouraging active participation and mutual exchange.
As a result, the initiative contributed to the development of shared storytelling-based approaches, strengthened inter-university connections and laid the groundwork for future joint activities within the Arqus Alliance. It demonstrated how student-led activities and university–NGO cooperation can enhance the social relevance of higher education while supporting Arqus’ vision of an engaged, inclusive European university alliance.
Programme
Open PDFBooklet
Open PDFPresentation
Open PDFPictures
