Within the framework of the WP3 of the GOOD MAUR-NIG project, 3 study visits were organized at UNIMED, Ca’ Foscari University, and the University of Granada, involving 14 participants from the 5 Mauritanian and Nigerien partner universities. The objective was to deepen knowledge and strengthen the skills of the academic and administrative staff involved in the internationalization process of the University of Nouakchott, the Lebanese International University in Mauritania, the Abdou Moumouni University of Niamey, the University Dan Dicko Dankoulodo of Maradi and the Djibo Hamani University of Tahoua.
Study visit in Rome (12-14 February)
Throughout the three days, UNIMED staff guided participants through an in-depth exploration of European funding opportunities for research, with a special focus on programs available to African countries. The training covered essential aspects of EU project management, from how to access the EU Commission platform to effectively handling administrative and financial procedures. Communication strategies were also a key topic, equipping participants with the tools to enhance the visibility and impact of international projects.
Study visit in Venice (12-14 February)
Simultaneously, the study visit in Venice, hosted by Ca’ Foscari University, focused on project development tools and funding opportunities for international research. Participants engaged in discussions on cooperation and internationalization experiences, drawing from the expertise of Ca’ Foscari University. The sessions provided an in-depth understanding of the mechanisms behind successful international research collaborations, as well as strategies for effective communication and outreach. The visit allowed participants to observe best practices firsthand and reflect on how they could be adapted to their own institutional contexts.
Study visit in Granada (17-19 February)
The following week, Granada concluded the study visits by focusing the discussions on academic mobility and internationalization policies. Participants examined regulations governing mobility programs, including study agreements, credit transfer mechanisms, and equivalence systems. Training sessions addressed the administrative management of international mobility programs and the structures needed to support internationalization. Additionally, exchanges with researchers from the University of Granada provided an opportunity for participants to engage in academic discussions and explore potential collaborations.
With the study visits completed, the next step for participants is to report back to their respective institutions on the knowledge gained. Participants will also begin reflecting on the structures needed to establish or strengthen international relations offices within their universities. These activities mark an essential step in translating the insights gained during the study visits into concrete actions that will contribute to the long-term internationalization of higher education institutions in Mauritania and Niger.
To learn more about the project and follow its developments, visit the official GOODMAURNIG website and the Facebook page
