Promotion of mobility and cooperation in tertiary education: 6 tips from the International Relations Day

The mood on 6 December 2022 was one of Christmas lights, light mist and St. Nicholas' bells as the staff of the higher education, and higher vocational education and training institutions responsible for mobility and cooperation met face-to-face for a big reunion. The programme included a political overview of international education, the launch of the 2023 call for the Swiss-European Mobility Programme (SEMP) and for international cooperation projects, an introduction to social marketing and breakout sessions on various topics related to the promotion of mobility and cooperation activities. The presentations of this event can be found in the column on the right. 

1)    Social marketing; it's real! The major challenge for a successful promotional campaign is to understand the target audience and to segment it. Focus on a specific population rather than a broad audience (e.g., address the needs and barriers of students in a particular faculty). Before embarking on a marketing campaign (flyer, video, poster), it is essential to define the problem, identify the target audience's obstacles and ask yourself how you can create value. This step requires resources, but allows for effective and targeted action. To be avoided: ‘Spray and pray’! Break-out session Social Marketing - Prof. Jeff French

2)    Promoting internationalisation to management: create databases, use rankings or numerical indicators in your arguments, seek allies by involving researchers and students in the discussion and create synergies between departments.  

3)    Exchanging good practice: the importance of networking for inspiration – Several higher education institutions have launched campaigns to promote student mobility. Sharing good ideas allows for mutual inspiration and innovation. Events, videos, podcasts; get fresh ideas from your colleagues! 

4)    Mobility for all: Special needs funds exist! When it comes to promoting mobility activities, the topic of inclusion should be systematically brought into the discussion. No one should be left out because of physical or mental disabilities. The application procedure for the special needs fund has been facilitated in this regard. More information on the IRO page. For advice on universal accessibility: id-geo.ch/. Check out Movetia's latest podcast, Movecast, which addresses the topic of inclusion.

5)    The Movetia learning by going campaign is also yours! Promotional materials can be downloaded or ordered from learningbygoing.ch/fr/ to support promotional activities in higher education institutions. 

6)    ESN Switzerland and the local organisations are active in promotion; do not hesitate to collaborate with them! ESN members are true ambassadors for student mobility. Collaboration with ESN is not limited to universities; other types of higher education institutions can also benefit from the ESN. Contact and information: esn.ch/.

The Swiss European Mobility Programme (SEMP) is not the only offer available to future teachers. The national teacher exchange programme and the language assistance programme also provide opportunities for mobility in Switzerland or abroad. 
A summary of the opportunities can be found on this flyer (in German).